Ezekiel 44:31
Ezekiel 44:31 in Multiple Translations
The priests may not eat any bird or animal found dead or torn by wild beasts.
The priests shall not eat of any thing that is dead of itself, or torn, whether it be fowl or beast.
The priests shall not eat of anything that dieth of itself, or is torn, whether it be bird or beast.
The priests may not take for food any bird or beast which has come to a natural death or whose death has been caused by another animal.
The priests are not permitted to eat any bird or animal found dead or killed by wild beasts.”
The Priests shall not eate of any thing, that is dead, or torne, whether it be foule or beast.
Any carcase and torn thing, of the fowl, and of the beasts, the priests do not eat.
The priests shall not eat of anything that dies of itself or is torn, whether it is bird or animal.
The priests shall not eat of any thing that is dead of itself, or torn, whether of fowl or beast.
The priests shall not eat of any thing that is dead of itself or caught by a beast, whether it be fowl or cattle.
Priests must not eat the flesh of any bird or animal that was found dead or that has been killed by wild animals.’ ”
Berean Amplified Bible — Ezekiel 44:31
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Ezekiel 44:31 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
כָּל
נְבֵלָה֙
וּ/טְרֵפָ֔ה
מִן
הָ/ע֖וֹף
וּ/מִן
הַ/בְּהֵמָ֑ה
לֹ֥א
יֹאכְל֖וּ
הַ/כֹּהֲנִֽים
כָּל
kôl
H3605
all
N-ms
נְבֵלָה֙
nᵉbêlâh
H5038
carcass
N-fs
וּ/טְרֵפָ֔ה
ṭᵉrêphâh
H2966
torn animal
Conj | N-fs
מִן
min
H4480
from
Prep
הָ/ע֖וֹף
ʻôwph
H5775
bird
Art | N-ms
וּ/מִן
min
H4480
from
Conj | Prep
הַ/בְּהֵמָ֑ה
bᵉhêmâh
H929
animal
Art | N-fs
לֹ֥א
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
יֹאכְל֖וּ
ʼâkal
H398
to eat
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp
הַ/כֹּהֲנִֽים
kôhên
H3548
priest
Art | N-mp
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Ezekiel 44:31
כָּל
kôl
H3605
"all"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.
Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)
Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.
נְבֵלָה֙
nᵉbêlâh
H5038
"carcass"
N-fs
This Hebrew word refers to a dead body or carcass, whether human or animal, often translated as 'dead body' or 'carcass'. It can also symbolize an idol.
Definition: 1) carcass, corpse 1a) of humans, idols, animals
Usage: Occurs in 41 OT verses. KJV: (dead) body, (dead) carcase, dead of itself, which died, (beast) that (which) dieth of itself. See also: Leviticus 5:2; Joshua 8:29; Psalms 79:2.
וּ/טְרֵפָ֔ה
ṭᵉrêphâh
H2966
"torn animal"
Conj | N-fs
This word refers to an animal that has been torn apart by another animal. In Exodus 22:13 and Leviticus 7:24, it describes the remains of an animal that has been attacked by a predator.
Definition: that which is torn, animal torn (by beasts)
Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: ravin, (that which was) torn (of beasts, in pieces). See also: Genesis 31:39; Leviticus 17:15; Nahum 2:13.
מִן
min
H4480
"from"
Prep
This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.
Definition: prep 1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than 1a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of 1b) out of 1b1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling) 1b2) (of material from which something is made) 1b3) (of source or origin) 1c) out of, some of, from (partitively) 1d) from, since, after (of time) 1e) than, more than (in comparison) 1f) from...even to, both...and, either...or 1g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons) 1h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive) conj 2) that Aramaic equivalent: min (מִן־ "from" H4481)
Usage: Occurs in 1094 OT verses. KJV: above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, [idiom] neither, [idiom] nor, (out) of, over, since, [idiom] then, through, [idiom] whether, with. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 16:32; Leviticus 14:26.
הָ/ע֖וֹף
ʻôwph
H5775
"bird"
Art | N-ms
In the Bible, this word simply means a bird, like the ones that fly in the sky. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Psalms, often symbolizing freedom.
Definition: 1) flying creatures, fowl, insects, birds 1a) fowl, birds 1b) winged insects Aramaic equivalent: oph (עוֹף "bird" H5776)
Usage: Occurs in 70 OT verses. KJV: bird, that flieth, flying, fowl. See also: Genesis 1:20; 1 Samuel 17:46; Psalms 50:11.
וּ/מִן
min
H4480
"from"
Conj | Prep
This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.
Definition: prep 1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than 1a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of 1b) out of 1b1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling) 1b2) (of material from which something is made) 1b3) (of source or origin) 1c) out of, some of, from (partitively) 1d) from, since, after (of time) 1e) than, more than (in comparison) 1f) from...even to, both...and, either...or 1g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons) 1h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive) conj 2) that Aramaic equivalent: min (מִן־ "from" H4481)
Usage: Occurs in 1094 OT verses. KJV: above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, [idiom] neither, [idiom] nor, (out) of, over, since, [idiom] then, through, [idiom] whether, with. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 16:32; Leviticus 14:26.
הַ/בְּהֵמָ֑ה
bᵉhêmâh
H929
"animal"
Art | N-fs
This word refers to animals, especially large quadruped mammals. It's used in the Bible to describe livestock, wild beasts, and other creatures. It appears in stories of creation, farming, and wildlife.
Definition: 1) beast, cattle, animal 1a) beasts (coll of all animals) 1b) cattle, livestock (of domestic animals) 1c) wild beasts
Usage: Occurs in 172 OT verses. KJV: beast, cattle. See also: Genesis 1:24; Deuteronomy 28:11; Psalms 8:8.
לֹ֥א
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
יֹאכְל֖וּ
ʼâkal
H398
"to eat"
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp
This word means to eat or devour, and it's used in many stories, including when Jesus fed the 5000 with fish and bread in the book of Matthew. It's about taking in nourishment and being satisfied.
Definition: 1) to eat, devour, burn up, feed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to eat (human subject) 1a2) to eat, devour (of beasts and birds) 1a3) to devour, consume (of fire) 1a4) to devour, slay (of sword) 1a5) to devour, consume, destroy (inanimate subjects - ie, pestilence, drought) 1a6) to devour (of oppression) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be eaten (by men) 1b2) to be devoured, consumed (of fire) 1b3) to be wasted, destroyed (of flesh) 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to cause to eat, feed with 1c2) to cause to devour 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to feed 1d2) to cause to eat 1e) (Piel) 1e1) consume Aramaic equivalent: a.khal (אֲכַל "to devour" H0399)
Usage: Occurs in 703 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, burn up, consume, devour(-er, up), dine, eat(-er, up), feed (with), food, [idiom] freely, [idiom] in...wise(-deed, plenty), (lay) meat, [idiom] quite. See also: Genesis 2:16; Leviticus 6:9; Numbers 24:8.
הַ/כֹּהֲנִֽים
kôhên
H3548
"priest"
Art | N-mp
In the Bible, a priest is a person who serves God and leads others in worship, like the Levitical priests in Exodus. They were responsible for making sacrifices and following God's laws. This term is also used to describe Jesus as a priest-king.
Definition: 1) priest, principal officer or chief ruler 1a) priest-king (Melchizedek, Messiah) 1b) pagan priests 1c) priests of Jehovah 1d) Levitical priests 1e) Zadokite priests 1f) Aaronic priests 1g) the high priest Aramaic equivalent: ka.hen (כָּהֵן "priest" H3549)
Usage: Occurs in 653 OT verses. KJV: chief ruler, [idiom] own, priest, prince, principal officer. See also: Genesis 14:18; Leviticus 13:33; Numbers 17:2.
Study Notes — Ezekiel 44:31
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Ezekiel 44:31 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Ezekiel 44:31
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ezekiel 44:31
- Trapp's Commentary on Ezekiel 44:31
- Ellicott's Commentary on Ezekiel 44:31
- Cambridge Bible on Ezekiel 44:31
- Whedon's Commentary on Ezekiel 44:31
- Sermons on Ezekiel 44:31
Context — The Duties of the Priests
29They shall eat the grain offerings, the sin offerings, and the guilt offerings. Everything in Israel devoted to the LORD will belong to them.
30The best of all the firstfruits and of every contribution from all your offerings will belong to the priests. You are to give your first batch of dough to the priest, so that a blessing may rest upon your homes.
31The priests may not eat any bird or animal found dead or torn by wild beasts.
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Leviticus 22:8 | He must not eat anything found dead or torn by wild animals, which would make him unclean. I am the LORD. |
| 2 | Exodus 22:31 | You are to be My holy people. You must not eat the meat of a mauled animal found in the field; you are to throw it to the dogs. |
| 3 | Deuteronomy 14:21 | You are not to eat any carcass; you may give it to the foreigner residing within your gates, and he may eat it, or you may sell it to a foreigner. For you are a holy people belonging to the LORD your God. You must not cook a young goat in its mother’s milk. |
| 4 | Leviticus 17:15 | And any person, whether native or foreigner, who eats anything found dead or mauled by wild beasts must wash his clothes and bathe with water, and he will be unclean until evening; then he will be clean. |
| 5 | 1 Corinthians 8:13 | Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother to stumble, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause him to stumble. |
| 6 | Ezekiel 4:14 | “Ah, Lord GOD,” I said, “I have never defiled myself. From my youth until now I have not eaten anything found dead or mauled by wild beasts. No unclean meat has ever entered my mouth.” |
| 7 | Romans 14:20 | Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All food is clean, but it is wrong for a man to let his eating be a stumbling block. |
Ezekiel 44:31 Summary
The priests in Ezekiel 44:31 were not allowed to eat birds or animals that had died or been torn by wild beasts, because these animals were considered unclean. This rule helped the priests remember to stay separate from things that were not pure, and to focus on serving God (as seen in Leviticus 11:44-45). Just like the priests, we are called to live lives that are holy and pleasing to God, and to be mindful of the ways in which our choices and actions may impact our spiritual well-being (as seen in 1 Thessalonians 4:7). By seeking to maintain spiritual purity and separation from the world, we can fulfill our role as children of God and bring glory to His name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the priests not allowed to eat birds or animals found dead or torn by wild beasts in Ezekiel 44:31?
This restriction is likely due to the importance of maintaining ritual purity, as seen in Leviticus 11:39-40, where it is written that animals that die of themselves or are torn by beasts are considered unclean. By not eating these animals, the priests are able to maintain their purity and fulfill their role as spiritual leaders.
How does this verse relate to the broader theme of purity in the Bible?
The concept of purity is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, with many references to the importance of maintaining physical and spiritual cleanliness, such as in Leviticus 11:44-45 and Matthew 15:18-20. This verse serves as a reminder of the high standards of purity expected of the priests, who were to serve as examples to the people.
What is the significance of the priests' diet in the context of their spiritual role?
The priests' diet was an important aspect of their spiritual role, as it reflected their commitment to maintaining ritual purity and separating themselves from the profane. As seen in Exodus 19:6, the priests were called to be a holy nation, and their diet was one way in which they demonstrated this holiness.
How can Christians today apply the principles of this verse to their own lives?
While the specific dietary restrictions of Ezekiel 44:31 may not apply directly to Christians today, the underlying principle of maintaining spiritual purity and separation from the world is still relevant, as seen in 2 Corinthians 6:17-18. Christians can apply this principle by seeking to live lives that are holy and pleasing to God, and by being mindful of the ways in which their choices and actions may impact their spiritual well-being.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways in which I can maintain spiritual purity in my own life, and what are the benefits of doing so?
- How can I balance the desire to engage with the world around me with the need to maintain separation from sinful influences, as seen in 1 John 2:15-17?
- What role does self-discipline play in maintaining spiritual purity, and how can I cultivate this discipline in my own life, as seen in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27?
- How can I ensure that my choices and actions are pleasing to God, and what are the consequences of failing to do so, as seen in Galatians 6:7-8?
Gill's Exposition on Ezekiel 44:31
The priests shall not eat of anything that is dead of itself, or torn,.... They shall have no need to eat of such things, being plentifully provided for with better; nor will it become them so to do
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ezekiel 44:31
This was forbidden to all the Jews, much more to the priests, .
Trapp's Commentary on Ezekiel 44:31
Ezekiel 44:31 The priests shall not eat of any thing that is dead of itself, or torn, whether it be fowl or beast.Ver. 31. The priests shall not eat, &c.] They shall not be greedy of filthy lucre, nor oppressive. Popish priests made so much gain of the dead, and so "devoured widows’ houses," under a pretence of dirges, trentals, masses for the dead, &c., that there was a necessity in, this kingdom of a statute of mortmain to restrain them. The figurative use is often based on the notion that the ‘ dead hand’ means the posthumous control exercised by the testator over the uses to which the property is to be applied. ŒD
Ellicott's Commentary on Ezekiel 44:31
(31) Dead of itself, or torn.—Comp. Leviticus 22:8. The same law was binding upon all the Israelites. (Leviticus 17:15.) In the wilderness they were required to “cast it to the dogs” (Exodus 23:31); afterwards they might give it to a stranger or sell it to an alien. (Deuteronomy 14:21.)
Cambridge Bible on Ezekiel 44:31
31. On this prohibition Exodus 22:31; Leviticus 22:8. Cf. Leviticus 17:15. The injunctions in Ezekiel 44:30 are very general. The prophet presupposes former customs familiar to the people, which he desires to continue. Everywhere in these chapters his directions are in the main a reproduction of a past customary and understood practice.
Whedon's Commentary on Ezekiel 44:31
29-31. The priests lived from the temple offerings, having as theirs the meat offering (Leviticus 2:1-16; Leviticus 6:14-16; Leviticus 7:9-11; Numbers 28:12-13), the sin offering (Leviticus 6:18-29;
Sermons on Ezekiel 44:31
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Of the Various Sorts of Proselytes. by John Gill | John Gill discusses the various types of proselytes in the Jewish tradition, emphasizing their different statuses and the conditions under which they were accepted into the Jewish |
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Make Your Life Count 4 by George Verwer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of spiritual balance in the lives of believers. He encourages the audience to seek a balance between enthusiasm and being eas |
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Our Daily Homily - 1 Corinthians by F.B. Meyer | F.B. Meyer emphasizes the profound partnership believers have with Jesus Christ, highlighting that we are called into fellowship with Him in His redemptive work and glory. This par |
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Witnesses for God by George Kulp | George Kulp preaches about the importance of being true to God, sharing a story of a young man who chose to serve God despite facing rejection from his family, leading to a powerfu |
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Do Not Destroy the Work of God by John Piper | In this sermon, John Piper emphasizes the importance of not putting stumbling blocks or hindrances in the way of fellow believers. He urges Christians to love one another, especial |
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Total Abstinence and Church Membership by John Piper | John Piper preaches on the topic of total abstinence from alcoholic drinks and its relation to church membership. He emphasizes that while total abstinence is the best approach tow |
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Some Observations on That Portion of Scripture, Rom. 14:20. by Isaac Penington | Isaac Penington preaches on Romans 14:20, emphasizing the work of God in the hearts of men, the vulnerability of this work to destruction, the impact of small actions on this work, |