In the Bible, “meat” generally refers to food or provisions in a broader sense, often including not just animal flesh but any sustenance. For example, in the King James Version, “meat” can denote anything that is eaten, as seen in passages like Genesis 1:29 and John 4:34.
Scripture
1 And the Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying to them,
2 “Speak to the people of Israel, saying, These are the living things that you may eat among all the animals that are on the earth.”
3 Whatever parts the hoof and is cloven-footed and chews the cud, among the animals, you may eat.
4 Nevertheless, among those that chew the cud or part the hoof, you shall not eat these: The camel, because it chews the cud but does not part the hoof, is unclean to you.
5 And the rock badger, because it chews the cud but does not part the hoof, is unclean to you.
6 And the hare, because it chews the cud but does not part the hoof, is unclean to you.
7 And the pig, because it parts the hoof and is cloven-footed but does not chew the cud, is unclean to you.
8 You shall not eat any of their flesh, and you shall not touch their carcasses; they are unclean to you.
9 “These you may eat, of all that are in the waters. Everything in the waters that has fins and scales, whether in the seas or in the rivers, you may eat.
10 But anything in the seas or the rivers that has not fins and scales, of the swarming creatures in the waters and of the living creatures that are in the waters, is detestable to you.
11 You shall regard them as detestable; you shall not eat any of their flesh, and you shall detest their carcasses.
12 Everything in the waters that has not fins and scales is detestable to you.
13 “And these you shall detest among the birds; they shall not be eaten; they are detestable: the eagle, the bearded vulture, the black vulture,
14 the kite, the falcon of any kind;
15 Every swarming thing that swarms on the ground is detestable; it shall not be eaten.
16 the ostrich, the nighthawk, the sea gull, the hawk according to its kind,
17 And the little owl and the cormorant and the short-eared owl,
18 the stork, the heron of any kind, the hoopoe, and the bat.
19 the stork, the heron of any kind, the hoopoe, and the bat.
20 “All winged insects that go on all fours are detestable to you.”
21 Yet among the winged insects that go on all fours you may eat those that have jointed legs above their feet, with which to hop on the ground.
22 Of them you may eat: the locust of any kind, the bald locust of any kind, the cricket of any kind, and the grasshopper of any kind.
23 But all other winged insects that have four feet are detestable to you.
24 “And by these you shall become unclean. Whoever touches their carcass shall be unclean until the evening,
25 And whoever carries any part of their carcass shall wash his clothes and be unclean until the evening.
26 Every animal that parts the hoof but is not cloven-footed or does not chew the cud is unclean to you. Everyone who touches them shall be unclean.
27 And among the animals that go on all fours, those that have a true hoof that is completely split open at the bottom, you shall regard as unclean.
28 But the swarming thing that crawls on the ground you shall not eat; they are detestable.
29 “And these are unclean to you among the swarming things that swarm on the ground: the mole rat, the mouse, the great lizard of any kind,
30 the gecko, the monitor lizard, the lizard, the sand lizard, and the chameleon.
31 These are unclean to you among all that swarm. Whoever touches them when they are dead shall be unclean until the evening.
32 And anything on which any of them falls when they are dead shall be unclean, whether it is an article of wood or a garment or a skin or a sack, any article that is used for any purpose. It must be put into water, and it shall be unclean until the evening; then it shall be clean.
33 And if any of them falls into any earthenware vessel, all that is in it shall be unclean, and you shall break it.
34 Any food in it that could be eaten, on which water comes, shall be unclean. And all drink that could be drunk from every such vessel shall be unclean.
35 And everything on which any part of their carcass falls shall be unclean. Whether oven or stove, it shall be broken in pieces. They are unclean and shall remain unclean for you.
36 Nevertheless, a spring or a cistern holding water shall be clean, but whoever touches a carcass in them shall be unclean.
37 If any part of their carcass falls upon any seed grain that is to be sown, it is clean,
38 But if water is put on the seed and any part of their carcass falls on it, it is unclean to you.
39 And if any animal which you may eat dies, whoever touches its carcass shall be unclean until the evening.
40 Whoever eats of its carcass shall wash his clothes and be unclean until the evening.
41 “Every swarming thing that swarms on the ground is detestable; it shall not be eaten.”
42 Whatever goes on its belly, and whatever goes on all fours, or whatever has many feet, any swarming thing that swarms on the ground, you shall not eat, for they are detestable.
43 You shall not make yourselves detestable with any swarming thing that swarms, and you shall not defile yourselves with them, and become unclean through them.
44 For I am the Lord your God. Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, for I am holy. You shall not defile yourselves with any swarming thing that crawls on the ground.
45 For I am the Lord who brought you up out of the land of Egypt to be your God. You shall therefore be holy, for I am holy.”
46 This is the law about beast and bird and every living creature that moves through the waters and every creature that swarms on the ground,
47 to make a distinction between the unclean and the clean and between the living creature that may be eaten and the living creature that may not be eaten.
Biblical Definition of Meat
In biblical terminology, the word “meat” encompasses much more than just animal flesh; it signifies sustenance and nourishment in a comprehensive sense. For instance, Genesis 1:29 states, “And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.” Here, the term “meat” is used to refer to plant-based sustenance that God provides for humanity, emphasizing an understanding of food that spans different types of nourishment, including fruits, vegetables, and grains. This broader perspective reflects a divine provision not just for physical needs but also aligns with the spiritual and communal dimensions of life in the covenant community.
Moreover, in John 4:34, Jesus states, “My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.” This verse expands the definition of “meat” to include spiritual fulfillment and purpose. The idea of “meat” here transcends the physical and points to the essence of living a life that fulfills divine intentions. Thus, in the biblical narrative, “meat” can serve as a metaphorical representation of spiritual sustenance and moral nourishment, illustrating that sustenance comes not only from material food but also from fulfilling one’s purpose and obligations to God and others. This duality of meaning encapsulates the holistic understanding of nourishment that permeates the Scriptures, inviting believers to consider both the physical and spiritual dimensions of their lives.
Throughout the Bible, the concept of “meat” is further explored in various contexts, highlighting its multifaceted nature as both a physical and spiritual source of sustenance. In Leviticus, for example, dietary laws articulate the significance of clean and unclean animals, framing the consumption of certain types of meat within the parameters of holiness and obedience to God’s commandments. These regulations positioned meat not merely as a dietary choice, but as an act reflecting the covenant relationship between God and His people. The consumption of clean meats symbolized purity and the adherence to divine instruction, reinforcing the idea that what nourishes the body must also align with spiritual integrity.
In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul expands on the understanding of meat through his discussions on food offered to idols and the freedom of believers. In 1 Corinthians 8, he addresses the ethical implications of consuming meat that may have been sacrificed to idols, suggesting that meat can embody not just sustenance but moral considerations tied to faith and community conscience. Paul posits that love and knowledge shape how believers engage with food, leading to an understanding that “meat” can signify more than physical nourishment; it involves navigating the complexities of faith, cultural practices, and the impact of one’s actions on the faith community. Thus, “meat” serves as a profound metaphor for the careful balance between physical needs, communal dynamics, and spiritual obligations throughout biblical teaching.
Symbol of Sustenance and Life
In biblical texts, “meat” often symbolizes sustenance and the provision of life. It represents not only physical nourishment but also the spiritual sustenance that comes from a relationship with God. The consumption of meat can be seen as a reflection of God’s provision for humanity, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and acknowledgment of divine blessings in daily life.
Metaphor for Spiritual Nourishment
Beyond its literal meaning, “meat” can also serve as a metaphor for deeper spiritual nourishment. In various contexts, it signifies the need for believers to seek out and consume the “meat” of God’s word, which provides wisdom, guidance, and strength for living a faithful life. This metaphor highlights the distinction between basic sustenance (milk) and more profound spiritual truths (meat), encouraging growth and maturity in one’s faith journey.
Representation of Covenant and Sacrifice
In the biblical narrative, meat is often associated with covenant and sacrifice. The act of offering meat in sacrifices signifies a commitment to God and the establishment of a sacred relationship. This aspect underscores the importance of sacrifice in the worship practices of ancient Israel, where the sharing of meat during communal meals also reinforced community bonds and collective identity among the people of God.
How to Foster Spiritual Growth and Nourishment in Faith
Fostering spiritual growth and nourishment in your faith is a deeply personal journey that requires intentionality and openness. Start by carving out time for daily prayer and reflection, allowing yourself to connect with God and listen for His guidance. Engage with Scripture regularly, not just as a text to be read, but as a living word that speaks to your heart and circumstances. Consider joining a small group or community where you can share your experiences and learn from others, as fellowship can provide encouragement and accountability. Additionally, don’t shy away from serving others; acts of kindness and compassion can deepen your understanding of Christ’s love and purpose for your life. Remember, spiritual growth is not a race but a lifelong process, so be patient with yourself and trust that God is at work in you, shaping you into the person He created you to be.
Bible References to the Definition of Meat:
Deuteronomy 14:3-21: 3 You shall not eat any abomination.
4 These are the animals you may eat: the ox, the sheep, the goat,
5 the deer, the gazelle, the roebuck, the wild goat, the ibex, the antelope, and the mountain sheep.
6 And every beast that parts the hoof and has the hoof cloven in two and chews the cud, among the animals, you may eat.
7 Yet of those that chew the cud or have the hoof cloven you shall not eat these: the camel, the hare, and the rock badger, because they chew the cud but do not part the hoof, are unclean for you.
8 And the pig, because it parts the hoof and is cloven-footed but does not chew the cud, is unclean to you.
9 “These you may eat of all that are in the waters. Everything in the waters that has fins and scales, whether in the seas or in the rivers, you may eat.
10 but anything that does not have fins and scales you shall not eat; it is unclean for you.
11 You may eat all clean birds.
12 But these are the ones that you shall not eat: the eagle, the bearded vulture, the black vulture,
13 and the glede, the kite, the falcon, all kinds of hawks,
14 And every raven according to its kind,
15 the pig, because it parts the hoof and is cloven-footed but does not chew the cud, is unclean to you.
16 You shall not eat any abomination.
17 the little owl, the cormorant, the short-eared owl,
18 the stork, the heron of any kind, the hoopoe, and the bat.
19 “Every swarming thing that flies is unclean to you; they shall not be eaten.
20 You shall eat it, the clean bird, according to its kind, the clean animal, according to its kind, and everything that creeps on the ground, according to its kind.
21 “You shall not eat anything that has died naturally. You may give it to the sojourner who is within your towns, that he may eat it, or you may sell it to a foreigner. For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. “
Genesis 9:1-4: 1 And God blessed Noah and his sons and said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth.
2 The fear of you and the dread of you shall be upon every beast of the earth and upon every bird of the heavens, upon everything that creeps on the ground and all the fish of the sea. Into your hand they are delivered.
3 Every moving thing that lives shall be food for you. And as I gave you the green plants, I give you everything.
4 But you shall not eat flesh with its life, that is, its blood.
Acts 10:9-16: 9 The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray.
10 And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance.
11 and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth.
12 In it were all kinds of four-footed animals and reptiles and birds of the air.
10 And there came a voice to him: “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.”
14 But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.”
15 And the voice came to him again a second time, “What God has made clean, do not call common.”
19 And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you.
Romans 14:1-3: As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions.
2 One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables.
3 Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, and let not the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him.
1 Timothy 4:1-5: 1 Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons.
2 through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared,
3 who forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.
4 For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving,
5 For it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.
Mark 7:14-23: 14 And he called the people to him again and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand:
15 There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.
16 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.”
17 And when he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable.
18 And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him,
19 since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?” (Thus he declared all foods clean.)
20 And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him.
21 For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery,
22 coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness.
23 All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”
1 Corinthians 8:1-13: 1 Now concerning food offered to idols: we know that “all of us possess knowledge.” This “knowledge” puffs up, but love builds up.
2 If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know.
3 But if anyone loves God, he is known by God.
4 Therefore, as to the eating of food offered to idols, we know that “an idol has no real existence,” and that “there is no God but one.”
5 For although there may be so-called gods in heaven or on earth—as indeed there are many “gods” and many “lords”—
6 yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.
7 However, not all possess this knowledge. But some, through former association with idols, eat food as really offered to an idol, and their conscience, being weak, is defiled.
8 Food will not commend us to God. We are no worse off if we do not eat, and no better off if we do.
9 But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak.
10 For if anyone sees you who have knowledge eating in an idol’s temple, will he not be encouraged, if his conscience is weak, to eat food offered to idols?
11 And so by your knowledge this weak person is destroyed, the brother for whom Christ died.
12 Thus, sinning against your brothers and wounding their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ.
13 Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.
1 Corinthians 10:23-33: 23 “All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.
24 Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.
25 Eat whatever is sold in the meat market without raising any question on the ground of conscience.
26 for “the earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof.”
27 If one of the unbelievers invites you to dinner and you are disposed to go, eat whatever is set before you without raising any question on the ground of conscience.
28 But if someone says to you, “This has been offered in sacrifice,” then do not eat it, for the sake of the one who informed you, and for the sake of conscience—
29 I do not mean your conscience, but his. For why should my liberty be determined by someone else’s conscience?
30 If I partake with thankfulness, why am I denounced because of that for which I give thanks?
31 So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
32 Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God,
33 just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.
Isaiah 66:15-17: 15 “For behold, the Lord will come in fire,
and his chariots like the whirlwind,
to render his anger in fury,
and his rebuke with flames of fire.
16 For by fire will the Lord enter into judgment, and by his sword, with all flesh; and those slain by the Lord shall be many.
17 “Those who sanctify and purify themselves to go into the gardens, following one in the midst, eating pig’s flesh and the abomination and mice, shall come to an end together, declares the Lord.”
Hebrews 13:9-10: 9 Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited those devoted to them.
10 We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat.
Colossians 2:16-17: 16 Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath.
17 These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.