The Bible views fish as a permissible and common food. Old Testament dietary laws considered fish with fins and scales as clean, suitable for eating. In the New Testament, Jesus not only ate fish but also used it in His teachings and miracles, reflecting its acceptance and significance in biblical times.
Curious about the biblical perspective on eating fish? Let’s dive into the scriptures to explore how fish is portrayed and used in both the Old and New Testaments.
What Does the Bible Say About Eating Fish?
Fish holds a notable place in the Bible, both as a dietary staple and a symbol in various narratives. The Old and New Testaments provide insights into how fish was perceived and used in biblical times.
In the Old Testament, the dietary laws in Leviticus and Deuteronomy classify fish with fins and scales as clean, meaning they were permissible to eat. This classification set the guidelines for the Israelites on what was considered appropriate for consumption, and fish clearly met these criteria.
In the New Testament, fish is mentioned numerous times, reflecting its common use as food. Notably, Jesus Himself consumed fish, as seen in instances like the post-resurrection appearance to His disciples. Furthermore, fish was central to several of Jesus’ miracles, including the feeding of the five thousand and the miraculous catch of fish, symbolizing God’s provision and abundance.
The apostles, many of whom were fishermen, frequently interacted with fish in their profession. These encounters often served as backdrops for Jesus’ teachings. For example, He called His disciples to be “fishers of men,” using their familiar trade to illustrate spiritual truths.
Additionally, fish was used symbolically in early Christianity. The Greek word for fish, “Ichthys,” was an acronym for “Jesus Christ, God’s Son, Savior,” and became a symbol of Christian faith.
In essence, the Bible presents fish as an acceptable and significant part of the diet in biblical times. It is associated with God’s provision, Jesus’ ministry, and even the identity of the early Christian community.
Bible Verses About Eating Fish
- Leviticus 11:9-12: “‘Of all the creatures living in the water… you may eat any that has fins and scales.’” This passage specifies which aquatic creatures were considered clean and edible according to the Old Testament law.
- Luke 24:42-43: “They gave Him a piece of broiled fish, and He took it and ate it in their presence.” This instance of Jesus eating fish highlights its common use as food in His time.
- Matthew 14:17-21: The feeding of the five thousand, where Jesus miraculously multiplies five loaves and two fish to feed a large crowd.
- John 21:6-11: The story of the miraculous catch of fish, symbolizing Jesus’ provision and the disciples’ call to evangelize.
- Mark 1:17: “‘Come, follow me,’ Jesus said, ‘and I will send you out to fish for people.’” Here, Jesus uses the act of fishing as a metaphor for spreading the Gospel.
- Acts 10:13: Peter’s vision where he sees a sheet containing various animals, symbolizing the acceptance of Gentiles into the Christian faith and the shift away from strict dietary laws.
- Matthew 7:10: “Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?” Jesus uses fish in His teaching to illustrate God’s willingness to give good gifts to His children.
- 1 Corinthians 15:39: “All flesh is not the same: Men have one kind of flesh, animals have another, birds another and fish another.” Paul mentions fish while discussing the diversity of God’s creation.
- Jonah 1:17: “Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah…” The story of Jonah being swallowed by a fish, representing God’s power and deliverance.
- Ezekiel 47:9-10: “Where the river flows everything will live… Fishermen will stand along the shore; from En Gedi to En Eglaim there will be places for spreading nets.” A prophetic vision of abundance, including fish, symbolizing restoration and blessing.
The Bible presents fish as not only a permissible food source but also as a symbol of provision, faith, and evangelism. From the Old Testament’s dietary laws categorizing certain fish as clean, to the New Testament’s accounts of Jesus using fish in His teachings and miracles, fish holds significant importance in biblical narratives. It serves as a reminder of God’s abundant provision and care, as well as a metaphor for spiritual truths.
Whether used in parables by Jesus or as a symbol by early Christians, fish is interwoven into the fabric of biblical teachings, reflecting both a practical and a spiritual dimension. The overall biblical message concerning fish, and by extension, our approach to food, is one of gratitude, stewardship, and recognition of God’s generosity in our daily lives.