Why did the Old Testament Law command against the eating of pork?

Response

Many of the prohibitions and requirements in the Old Testament may seem irrelevant to the modern Western mindset. A notable example is the prohibition on consuming pork «And the swine, though he divide the hoof, and be clovenfooted, yet he cheweth not the cud; he is unclean to you. », (Leviticus 11:7). To most individuals, a delicious pork loin served with apples and nuts is a delightful meal! Understanding the intent of the Mosaic Law in general, and the cultural perception of swine in particular, is crucial to comprehending the Law’s prohibition on pork consumption.

The Law bestowed upon the Israelites served several significant purposes. Adhering to God’s prescribed actions was not merely a ceremonial act; rather, obedience to the Law reflected a deep internal faith in God and a reverent fear of Him. Deuteronomy 30 outlines the blessings that God would bestow upon Israel for their obedience and the curses that would befall them for disobedience. These blessings and curses formed an essential part of the covenant between God and Israel, making the Law the foundation of a conditional covenant. Additionally, the Law, which included the restriction on eating pork, functioned as a distinctive symbol of the privilege granted to Israel, setting them apart from their pagan neighbors.

During Moses’ era, the entire world was steeped in idolatry, with each nation worshipping multiple deities. The prohibition of consuming certain foods like pork served to differentiate between what would later be known as “Jew” and “Gentile.” The dietary regulations also signified that Israel was a distinct nation and a chosen people. Rejecting the consumption of pork and other customs of the pagans aided the Israelites in breaking away from idolatry—a sin with which they undoubtedly struggled (see Exodus 32).

Under the Old Testament Law, not only was the consumption of pork prohibited, but even touching swine meat rendered an individual ritually impure.«And the swine, because it divideth the hoof, yet cheweth not the cud, it is unclean unto you: ye shall not eat of their flesh, nor touch their dead carcase. », (Deuteronomy 14:8). This detail further isolated the Israelites from pagan practices. The Canaanites kept herds of swine and sacrificed them to idols. God wanted His people to distance themselves from all such activity.

Then there are the hygienic concerns related to the Law’s dietary restrictions, including the prohibition on eating pork. It is well known today that pork carries various diseases, and the meat requires more stringent cooking techniques than other meats such as beef or poultry. In Moses’ day, there was no knowledge of microscopic pathogens, and the cultural norm was to eat raw or undercooked meat «Ye shall not eat any thing with the blood: neither shall ye use enchantment, nor observe times. », (Leviticus 19:26). Of course, consuming undercooked pork would have posed a significant health threat to the Israelites, but God providentially protected them through the Mosaic Law. “If you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, who heals you” «and said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee. », (Exodus 15:26).