Fish without fins and scales were considered unclean because they lacked the distinguishing features God set as signs of purity and suitability for His people’s diet. These physical traits symbolized discernment and protection, qualities that aligned with God’s standards of holiness.
Leviticus 11:10 says:
“But all in the seas or in the rivers that do not have fins and scales, all that move in the water or any living thing which is in the water, they are an abomination to you.”
Fins and scales allowed fish to move efficiently and protected them from harm, symbolizing guidance and moral separation. Creatures lacking these were often bottom-dwellers or scavengers, which made them symbolic of impurity.
These distinctions helped Israel practice daily holiness and obedience. By submitting to God’s dietary rules, they expressed trust in His wisdom and displayed visible separation from the practices of surrounding nations.
Though the dietary law is not binding on Christians today, the principle of spiritual discernment remains. Philippians 1:10 says:
“That you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ.”
The command to avoid fish without fins and scales reinforced the lesson that God’s people must make clear distinctions between what is acceptable and what is not, in every aspect of life.
