Catholic Public Domain Version
Exodus 22:31
“You shall be holy men for me. The flesh, from which beasts will have tasted, you shall not eat, but you will throw it to the dogs."”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Exodus 22:31.
Plain-language explanation
God calls His people to be holy. In this verse, holiness includes obedience to food laws: you should not eat the flesh that wild or other animals have tasted. Instead, you’re to discard it (rather than treat it like normal food).
Catholic context
Many Catholics see these Old Testament cleanliness and dietary regulations as a way God trained Israel’s daily life to reflect reverence for Him. In Christian teaching, the ultimate “holiness” flows from God’s gift in Christ and the sacraments, while these passages show how God shaped His people to live differently.
Historical background
Exodus 22:31 comes from Israel’s covenant life under the Law given through Moses. Food rules helped distinguish Israel from surrounding cultures and reminded the people that everyday choices belong to God. The instruction to throw the flesh to dogs underscores that the people should not consume something unfit or contaminated.
Reflection
Holiness isn’t only about “big” religious moments—it reaches into ordinary habits like eating. This verse invites us to ask: What small choices show respect for God and help me live more faithfully?
Practical takeaway
Treat your daily routines (especially what you choose to consume or how you handle what’s unclean) with intentional reverence. A practical step: before a meal or daily decision, offer a brief prayer of thanksgiving and ask for a clean heart and obedience to God’s will.
Prayer
Lord God, make me holy in my everyday choices. Teach me reverence in what I take in and how I live. Help me obey You with trust, and keep my heart ready to receive Your gift of life. Amen.