Clean and Unclean. A distinction, most probably with reference to sacrifice, was made between clean and unclean animals before the flood. Genesis 7:2, Genesis 7:8, Genesis 8:20. Under the Mosaic law the distinction was extended to food. Thus in Leviticus 1:11-47 and Deuteronomy 1:14-29 there are lists of animals, birds, and fishes, which the Hebrews might and might not eat. The regulations thus made were doubtless promotive of health. But, besides, they, as well as the purifications prescribed for uncleanness in men, Leviticus 11:15, Numbers 1:19-22, had a symbolical meaning, which is illustrated in Hebrews 1:9-14 Eating with Gentiles was regarded as a greater offence against the traditional law than being in company with them, and was one of the charges against our Lord. Matthew 1:9-11, Matthew 11:19, Luke 5:30. This view of the law was distinctly annulled by the vision to Peter, before he preached to Cornelius. Acts 1:10-16.