If you’re wondering what the Bible has to say about eating animals, here’s the short take: The Bible doesn’t explicitly say, “Thou shalt eat animals” or “Thou shalt not eat animals.” It does, however, provide guidance and principles that can help us make informed choices about what we eat.
Curious to dive deeper into this topic? Keep reading to discover what the Bible says about our relationship with animals and whether it’s okay to chow down on them.
What Does the Bible Say About Eating Animals?
The Bible doesn’t give us a straightforward yes or no when it comes to eating animals. It’s not a black-and-white issue. But let’s explore what the Bible does say about this topic.
God’s View on Creation
In the beginning, God created the world and everything in it. Genesis 1:26 tells us that God gave humanity dominion over the animals. This dominion implies responsibility. We’re entrusted with the care and stewardship of God’s creation.
Old Testament Guidance
In the Old Testament, certain animals were considered clean and suitable for eating, while others were unclean and forbidden. Leviticus 11 lays out these dietary laws. These laws aimed to promote health and holiness among God’s people.
New Testament Perspective
In the New Testament, Jesus didn’t explicitly address the issue of eating animals, but he did emphasize the importance of love, compassion, and kindness. These principles can guide our choices, including what we eat.
Sin and Sacrifice
The Bible does describe animal sacrifices in the Old Testament as a way to seek forgiveness for sins. However, with the coming of Jesus and his sacrifice on the cross, the need for animal sacrifices was fulfilled. This suggests a shift away from sacrificing animals for spiritual purposes.
The Bible’s Silence
The Bible doesn’t condemn eating animals, but it also doesn’t command it. It leaves room for personal choice, guided by principles of love, stewardship, and responsibility.
Bible Verses About Eating Animals
Let’s take a closer look at some key Bible verses related to this topic:
- Genesis 9:3 – “Every moving thing that lives shall be food for you. And as I gave you the green plants, I give you everything.”
- 1 Timothy 4:4-5 – “For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.”
- Romans 14:2 – “One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables.”
- Acts 15:29 – “that you abstain from what has been sacrificed to idols, and from blood, and from what has been strangled, and from sexual immorality.”
- Colossians 2:16 – “Therefore, let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath.”
As we explore these verses, it’s clear that the Bible offers guidance, but the final decision on whether to eat animals is a matter of personal conviction, guided by love, stewardship, and thankfulness.
