Animal

The biblical treatment of animals reflects a theology in which the creature world is God's creation, placed under human stewardship. The Levitical law introduced a systematic division of animals into clean and unclean categories, governing which could be eaten (Lev. 11; Deut. 14) and which were suitable for sacrifice. Clean land animals must chew the cud and have divided hooves; clean water creatures must have fins and scales; clean birds are distinguished from a list of prohibited species including birds of prey. The reason for many distinctions remains debated, with interpretations ranging from hygiene to symbolic holiness.

Animals play varied roles throughout Scripture: as sacrificial offerings establishing atonement, as object lessons in wisdom literature (Prov. 6:6; 30:24–28), as symbols in prophetic visions, and as signs of divine provision and care. Noah's preservation of animals in the ark and God's covenant with “every living creature” after the flood (Gen. 9:10) demonstrate the scope of divine concern for the animal creation, a theme echoed in Jesus' reference to God's care for sparrows (Matt. 10:29).