Throughout history, people in different cultures have eaten insects as a source of protein, nutrition, and survival.
While many modern societies find the idea of eating bugs unusual or even unappealing, other cultures see it as a normal part of their diet.
But what does the Bible say about eating bugs?
Is it allowed, or is it forbidden?
Did people in biblical times eat insects, and if so, which ones were considered clean or unclean?
By exploring the scriptures, we can gain a better understanding of what God’s Word says about eating insects and whether it has any significance for believers today.
Does the Bible Mention Eating Insects?
Yes, the Bible does mention eating insects, particularly in the Old Testament.
The most direct reference is found in Leviticus 11, where God gave dietary laws to the Israelites.
These laws separated clean and unclean animals, instructing the people on what they could and could not eat.
Leviticus 11:20-23 states:
“All flying insects that walk on all fours are to be regarded as unclean by you.
There are, however, some flying insects that walk on all fours that you may eat: those that have jointed legs for hopping on the ground.
Of these you may eat any kind of locust, katydid, cricket, or grasshopper.
But all other flying insects that have four legs you are to regard as unclean.”
This passage clearly permits the eating of certain insects, particularly locusts, crickets, and grasshoppers.
Other insects, however, were considered unclean and were not to be eaten.
This distinction was part of the broader dietary laws given to Israel, which guided their eating habits based on God’s instructions.
Did People in the Bible Eat Bugs?
Yes, at least one well-known biblical figure is recorded as eating insects—John the Baptist.
Matthew 3:4 describes his diet:
“John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist.
His food was locusts and wild honey.”
John the Baptist lived in the wilderness, preaching repentance and preparing the way for Jesus.
His simple diet of locusts and honey was not uncommon in his time, especially for those who lived in desert regions where food was scarce.
Some scholars suggest that the locusts John ate might have referred to carob pods, also known as “St. John’s bread.”
However, given that the Old Testament already permitted locusts as clean food, it is likely that John ate actual locusts.
His diet reflected a humble, simple lifestyle dedicated to God.
Why Were Some Insects Considered Clean?
God’s dietary laws in Leviticus made a clear distinction between clean and unclean animals, including insects.
Locusts, crickets, and grasshoppers were among the few insects labeled as clean, meaning they were acceptable to eat.
One possible reason is practicality.
These insects were abundant in desert regions and could provide an important source of nutrition, especially during times of famine.
Another reason may be hygiene.
Many unclean animals listed in the Bible, including other insects, could carry diseases or were scavengers that fed on decaying matter.
By instructing Israel to avoid them, God may have been protecting their health.
The dietary laws also helped set the Israelites apart from other nations, marking them as God’s chosen people with unique customs.
Even though many of these laws were given specifically to Israel, they still reveal God’s wisdom in caring for His people.
Are Christians Required to Follow Old Testament Dietary Laws?
One of the biggest questions Christians face when reading the Old Testament dietary laws is whether they still apply today.
The New Testament teaches that believers are no longer under the dietary restrictions of the Old Covenant.
Jesus Himself addressed this in Mark 7:18-19 when He said:
“Are you so dull?” he asked.
“Don’t you see that nothing that enters a person from the outside can defile them?
For it doesn’t go into their heart but into their stomach, and then out of the body.”
In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean.
Later, in Acts 10, Peter had a vision in which God told him to eat animals that were previously considered unclean.
Acts 10:15 says:
“The voice spoke to him a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’”
This vision was not just about food—it was also a lesson about accepting Gentiles into God’s family.
However, it also reinforced the idea that the Old Testament dietary restrictions were no longer required for Christians.
Paul also confirmed this in Colossians 2:16:
“Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day.”
These passages make it clear that Christians are free to eat whatever they choose, as long as it is done with gratitude to God.
This means that eating insects, including those considered unclean in the Old Testament, is not a sin under the New Covenant.
The Ethical and Practical Perspective on Eating Bugs
In many cultures today, eating insects is common and even encouraged as a sustainable food source.
Insects are high in protein, require fewer resources to produce, and are widely available.
For example, countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America regularly consume crickets, mealworms, and grasshoppers as part of their diet.
Even in Western countries, some people are starting to embrace edible insects as an alternative to traditional meats.
From a biblical perspective, eating insects is neither commanded nor forbidden under the New Covenant.
However, Christians are encouraged to be mindful of their choices, considering both health and ethics.
First Corinthians 10:31 provides a guiding principle:
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
If eating insects is a healthy and responsible choice, it can be done with thanksgiving.
If someone feels uncomfortable with it, they are free to avoid it.
Ultimately, each person’s decision should be guided by their conscience and God’s wisdom.
Should Christians Eat Bugs?
For those wondering if Christians should eat insects, the Bible does not provide a strict yes or no answer.
Instead, it gives principles for making wise choices about food.
Personal conviction is important. Romans 14:23 reminds us, “But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.”
Health and nutrition should also be considered. Insects are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. If they provide a healthy food source, they can be a good option.
Cultural context plays a role as well. In some cultures, eating insects is normal, while in others it is frowned upon. Christians should be respectful of cultural differences when making food choices.
Avoiding offense is another factor. First Corinthians 8:9 warns, “Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.” If eating insects causes division or discomfort among fellow believers, it may be better to avoid it in certain settings.
Gratitude to God should always come first. First Timothy 4:4 says, “For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving.”
Final Thoughts
The Bible does mention eating insects, specifically allowing locusts, crickets, and grasshoppers in the Old Testament.
John the Baptist ate locusts, showing that consuming insects was accepted in biblical times.
Under the New Covenant, Christians are no longer bound by Old Testament dietary laws, meaning they are free to eat or avoid insects based on personal conviction.
The key principle in food choices is to honor God, exercise wisdom, and respect the consciences of others.
So, whether or not you choose to eat bugs, let your decision be guided by faith, gratitude, and love for God and others.