Ezekiel 44:31 Meaning and Explanation
“The priests shall not eat of any thing that is dead of itself, or torn, whether it be fowl or beast.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Priests must eat only properly slaughtered, clean animals, never carrion or torn flesh.
The Context of Ezekiel 44:31
Final dietary law distinguishing priestly purity.
What Does Ezekiel 44:31 Mean?
The prohibition against eating dead or torn animals—carrion or flesh from predators—distinguishes priests from the general population, who had limited restrictions. Priests must consume only clean, properly slaughtered meat, maintaining stringent purity standards.
This dietary law reflects the principle that those who serve in holy space must embody holiness in every aspect of life, including what enters their bodies. The priest's food must be as carefully sanctified as the sanctuary itself.
Ezekiel 44:31 in the Original Language
torn (טְרֵפָה, 'terefah) — carrion or flesh torn by wild animals, rendering the meat unclean and forbidden to priests.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 44:31
What does Ezekiel 44:31 mean?
Priests must eat only properly slaughtered, clean animals, never carrion or torn flesh.
What is the context of Ezekiel 44:31?
Final dietary law distinguishing priestly purity.