God’s Word has wisdom that speaks to every aspect of our lives, even the things we may not always consider. The question of eating shrimp, for example, can bring up questions about what the Bible says regarding food choices and purity. This article provides over 40 Bible verses that offer insight and spiritual encouragement, helping us understand how scripture guides us in our decisions and actions.
While the Bible may not directly mention shrimp in today’s context, it provides clear teachings on how we should live and make choices in accordance with God’s will. Through these verses, you’ll find valuable wisdom on purity, living a righteous life, and aligning your choices with His teachings. Let the transformative power of scripture guide your understanding as you reflect on these meaningful Bible verses.
Is Eating Shrimp A Sin?
In the Old Testament, shrimp was labeled as “unclean.” Leviticus 11:10 says, “But all in the seas or rivers that do not have fins and scales… they are detestable to you.” This command was part of God’s covenant with Israel, setting them apart through dietary and ceremonial laws. So, under the Mosaic Law, eating shrimp was indeed considered a sin for the Israelites.
However, with the coming of Jesus, those ceremonial laws were fulfilled. In Mark 7:18-19, Jesus declared all foods clean: “Nothing outside a person can defile them… In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean.” This shows that the rules about food were no longer binding under the New Covenant. Christians are no longer under the Old Law, but under grace through Christ.
A powerful example comes from Acts 10, where Peter is shown a vision of unclean animals. God tells him, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean” (Acts 10:15). This was not only about people but also symbolically lifted food restrictions. Through this, believers are reminded that faith, not food, determines purity and righteousness.
So, is eating shrimp a sin? For believers in Christ, the answer is no. Romans 14:3 says, “Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains… for God has welcomed him.” Eating shrimp is not a spiritual failure, but a matter of personal choice and conscience. What truly matters is your heart before God, not what’s on your plate.
1. Biblical Dietary Laws
Purpose:
This section explores the foundational dietary laws given in the Bible, providing context for understanding food choices according to God’s commandments.
📖 Leviticus 11:9-12
“These you may eat of all that are in the waters: whatever has fins and scales, whether in the seas or in the rivers, that you may eat.”
Explanation:
In this verse, God outlines specific instructions for what is considered clean in terms of marine life. The key condition is that creatures must have both fins and scales to be deemed acceptable for consumption. This makes shrimp, along with other shellfish, unclean according to Old Testament law. The dietary restrictions were meant to set the Israelites apart, encouraging holiness by following God’s divine laws.
📖 Deuteronomy 14:9-10
“Of all that are in the waters, these you may eat: whatever has fins and scales.”
Explanation:
This passage reinforces the dietary guidelines established in Leviticus, particularly focusing on what is permissible from the water. By repeating the requirement of fins and scales, the text underlines the importance of adhering to God’s commandments in daily life. For those living under these laws, abstaining from unclean foods like shrimp was an act of obedience to God’s design, ensuring they maintained their spiritual purity.
📖 Genesis 1:29
“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.’”
Explanation:
This verse describes God’s original plan for human diet, which was plant-based. Before the introduction of the Law in Leviticus, the ideal provision was for people to consume fruits, seeds, and vegetables. While it doesn’t directly address the consumption of animals, it shows God’s intent for mankind to live off the earth’s bounty, emphasizing the nutritional goodness of plants. This forms the basis of a diet that is centered on God’s creation and provision.
📖 Leviticus 11:13-19
“And these are they which ye shall have in abomination among the fowls; they shall not be eaten…”
Explanation:
These verses further detail God’s dietary commandments, specifically listing various unclean birds. This passage provides clarity on what constitutes an abomination in terms of diet, focusing on the flesh of certain animals that were forbidden for consumption. The principle of clean versus unclean is not confined to sea creatures alone but extends to other aspects of the animal kingdom, reinforcing the need for careful dietary choices based on divine instructions.
📖 Leviticus 11:20-23
“All fowls that creep, going upon all four, shall be an abomination unto you.”
Explanation:
This passage continues the dietary laws, now addressing specific unclean creatures, such as insects. The emphasis is placed on distinguishing between clean and unclean creatures, even within the realms of those animals that might be overlooked in our modern understanding of food. These laws were part of the broader covenant between God and His people, meant to guide them in living a holy and set-apart life.
📖 Exodus 23:19
“The first of the firstfruits of thy land thou shalt bring into the house of the Lord thy God.”
Explanation:
While not directly related to food restrictions, this verse highlights the principle of offering the best to God. It speaks to a broader concept of honoring God in every aspect of life, including the food one consumes. By offering the firstfruits, God’s people were reminded to remain obedient to Him in all matters, including dietary choices, which were seen as acts of faith.
📖 Deuteronomy 14:21
“Ye shall not eat of any thing that dieth of itself: thou shalt give it unto the stranger that is in thy gates, that he may eat it; or thou mayest sell it unto an alien: for thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God.”
Explanation:
This verse explains that Israelites should not eat anything that died of itself, which was considered impure. This law was given to ensure that the food consumed was prepared and slaughtered according to God’s standards. It also stresses the importance of maintaining holiness, a concept that permeated all aspects of life, including what they ate.
📖 Leviticus 11:44-45
“For I am the Lord your God: ye shall therefore sanctify yourselves, and ye shall be holy; for I am holy.”
Explanation:
These verses summarize the dietary laws and provide the ultimate reason for them—holiness. The Israelites were commanded to live set-apart lives, and following these dietary guidelines was a part of that. The act of choosing what to eat was not just a physical choice but a spiritual one, with a focus on purity and maintaining a close relationship with God.
Find Your Blessings: Do You Go To Hell If You Commit Suicide? 40+ Bible Verses
2. Understanding Clean and Unclean
Purpose:
This section delves into the broader biblical understanding of what makes animals clean or unclean, which forms the foundation for dietary decisions.
📖 Leviticus 11:4-7
“Nevertheless these shall ye not eat of them that chew the cud, or of them that divide the cloven hoof…”
Explanation:
This passage continues to differentiate between clean and unclean animals by specifying the characteristics that make certain animals acceptable for consumption. The division between animals that chew cud and those with a divided hoof was a key distinction. Shrimp and other shellfish fall into the unclean category because they do not meet these specific requirements.
📖 Deuteronomy 14:3-6
“Thou shalt not eat any abominable thing. These are the beasts which ye shall eat…”
Explanation:
These verses further elaborate on what animals are considered clean or unclean based on physical traits. The laws are quite specific, drawing clear lines between what is permitted and what is forbidden. For those following these laws, the clean animals were those that were suitable for sacrifice and consumption, emphasizing purity in all aspects of life.
📖 Mark 7:18-19
“Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him…”
Explanation:
Jesus addresses the concept of clean and unclean foods in the New Testament. He emphasizes that it’s not the external food that defiles a person, but what comes from within, highlighting the shift in the understanding of dietary laws. This teaching suggests that the ceremonial laws around food have changed, focusing on inner purity rather than external rituals.
📖 Matthew 15:11
“Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.”
Explanation:
This passage builds on the previous one by stressing the importance of the heart and intentions over the physical act of eating. Jesus clarified that it’s not the food itself that makes a person unclean, but rather the words and actions that flow from the heart. This marks a significant departure from Old Testament dietary laws.
📖 Acts 10:13-15
“And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.”
Explanation:
This famous vision that Peter had in Acts challenges the Old Testament dietary laws. God tells Peter to eat animals that were previously considered unclean. This moment represents a new understanding of what is clean in the eyes of God, suggesting that the restrictions of the Old Covenant no longer applied to the followers of Christ.
📖 Romans 14:2-3
“For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.”
Explanation:
This verse from Paul highlights the freedom that believers have in Christ regarding food. While some Christians felt obligated to follow Old Testament laws, others saw that they were not bound by those restrictions. Paul encourages tolerance and understanding, showing that the decision to eat or abstain is a matter of personal faith.
📖 Colossians 2:16-17
“Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of a holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days.”
Explanation:
In this passage, Paul teaches that Christians should not judge one another based on food laws or ceremonial observances. Christ has freed believers from the burden of these legalistic rules, and they are now free to make their own choices regarding food, as long as it is done in faith.
📖 1 Timothy 4:4-5
“For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving…”
Explanation:
This verse offers a clear Christian perspective on food, affirming that all of God’s creation is good. Believers are encouraged to receive food with gratitude, showing that there is no need to avoid certain foods as long as they are consumed with a thankful heart. It highlights God’s grace in allowing freedom in dietary choices for Christians.
Find Your Blessings: 40+ Biblical Meaning Of Waking Up At 3am Spiritual Meaning
3. Modern Christian Perspectives
Purpose:
In this section, we look at how modern Christians approach dietary laws, especially with regard to foods like shrimp, through a lens of faith and liberty in Christ.
📖 Galatians 5:1
“Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.”
Explanation:
This verse emphasizes the freedom Christians have in Christ, especially concerning matters like dietary laws. While the Old Testament laws served a purpose, believers are no longer bound by them. Christ’s sacrifice has liberated us from the legalistic approach to food and other ceremonial requirements.
📖 1 Corinthians 10:23
“All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient.”
Explanation:
Paul addresses the concept of Christian liberty, stating that while all things are technically lawful, not all things are beneficial. This can apply to food choices, where Christians are free to eat what they want, but should still be mindful of how their choices impact their faith and the faith of others.
📖 Romans 14:5-6
“One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.”
Explanation:
This verse reflects the modern Christian approach to food and religious observance. It emphasizes personal conviction in matters of diet, showing that Christians should make choices based on their own faith and conscience, without imposing judgment on others.
📖 1 Corinthians 8:8
“But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse.”
Explanation:
This verse speaks to the idea that food does not define a Christian’s spiritual standing with God. It underscores that our relationship with God is not determined by what we eat, but by our faith in Him.
📖 Colossians 2:20-21
“Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, touch not; taste not; handle not…”
Explanation:
Paul addresses the futility of following legalistic food laws, stating that these do not contribute to spiritual growth. Christians are encouraged to focus on spiritual freedom in Christ rather than adhering to external rules about food.
📖 Matthew 5:17
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.”
Explanation:
Jesus affirms that He has come to fulfill the law, not to abolish it. For modern Christians, this means that the ceremonial laws of the Old Testament, including dietary laws, have been fulfilled through Christ. Christians are no longer bound by these regulations but are called to follow the spirit of the law.
📖 Acts 15:29
“That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication…”
Explanation:
The early church had a debate over whether Gentile converts needed to follow Jewish dietary laws. The conclusion was that they should avoid certain practices, but overall, food laws were no longer binding. This passage highlights the importance of unity and not causing others to stumble in faith.
📖 Romans 14:20
“For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence.”
Explanation:
Paul teaches that while food is not inherently evil, Christians should avoid eating in a way that causes others to stumble. This reflects the modern Christian attitude of grace and consideration, showing that our actions regarding food should be done with love and mindfulness toward others.
Find Your Blessings: Firmament Bible Verse: 40+ Bible Verses
4. Eating Shrimp in Context
Purpose:
This section addresses the specific issue of eating shrimp from a biblical and Christian perspective, providing clarity on whether it’s permissible today.
📖 Leviticus 11:10
“But all that have not fins and scales in the seas, and in the rivers, of all that move in the waters, and of any living thing which is in the waters, they shall be an abomination unto you.”
Explanation:
This verse clearly prohibits the eating of shrimp, as they do not have fins and scales, which are the key requirements for clean aquatic animals in the Old Testament laws. For those adhering strictly to these laws, shrimp remains forbidden.
📖 Deuteronomy 14:3
“Thou shalt not eat any abominable thing.”
Explanation:
This commandment emphasizes the prohibition of consuming anything considered unclean. Shrimp, along with other shellfish, is listed as unclean in the Bible. However, many modern Christians believe that such laws are no longer applicable due to the New Testament teachings of Christian liberty.
📖 Mark 7:18-19
“Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him…”
Explanation:
In this passage, Jesus challenges the old laws about food, suggesting that it’s not the physical food that defiles a person but the sin that comes from within. This indicates that the strict dietary laws, including the prohibition of shrimp, are no longer binding for Christians.
📖 Acts 10:13-15
“And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.”
Explanation:
In this passage, God tells Peter to eat unclean animals in a vision. This moment serves as a pivotal point in the Christian faith, symbolizing that the Old Testament dietary laws are no longer applicable. This passage is often cited by Christians to justify the eating of shrimp and other previously forbidden foods.
📖 Romans 14:14
“I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself…”
Explanation:
Paul affirms that, in Christ, no food is inherently unclean. This is a key verse for modern Christians who feel free to eat shrimp and other foods once considered unclean, as the dietary laws are no longer relevant in the New Covenant.
📖 1 Timothy 4:3-5
“For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving…”
Explanation:
This verse clearly states that all creatures are good and can be consumed if received with gratitude. For modern Christians, this is a strong indication that the prohibition on shrimp is no longer valid and that believers are free to eat all foods.
📖 Colossians 2:16-17
“Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink…”
Explanation:
This passage emphasizes that Christians should not judge one another based on food choices. Since the Old Testament laws no longer apply, the consumption of shrimp or other unclean foods is a matter of personal conviction.
📖 Matthew 15:11
“Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.”
Explanation:
Jesus teaches that it is not the food that makes a person unclean, but what comes out of their heart. This teaching allows Christians to feel liberated from the dietary laws of the Old Testament, including the prohibition of eating shrimp.
Find Your Blessings: 40+ Prayer Verses In The Bible
5. The Role of Grace in Dietary Choices
Purpose:
This section highlights how God’s grace through Christ has freed believers from the ceremonial food laws of the Old Testament. It reminds us that we are now guided by love, wisdom, and the leading of the Holy Spirit, not dietary restrictions.
📖 Romans 14:1-3
“Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.”
Explanation:
Paul teaches that believers should welcome one another without judgment over food choices. Some may feel comfortable eating all things, while others prefer to avoid certain foods. The emphasis is not on the diet but on the unity and acceptance we extend to others in Christ.
📖 Galatians 5:1
“Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.”
Explanation:
This verse calls us to embrace the freedom we have in Christ. Returning to strict food laws places us back into spiritual bondage. Grace invites us into a relationship with God, where choices come from love and understanding, not rigid regulation.
📖 1 Corinthians 10:23-24
“All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient…”
Explanation:
While believers have the freedom to eat anything, Paul urges us to consider the impact of our choices. Some actions, though allowed, may not build others up. Grace leads us to live thoughtfully, putting love above personal liberty in every decision.
📖 Titus 2:11-12
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that… we should live soberly, righteously…”
Explanation:
God’s grace isn’t permission to live carelessly. It shapes our hearts to choose what is right and pleasing to Him. When facing decisions about food or lifestyle, grace instructs us to act with discipline, spiritual awareness, and gratitude.
📖 Romans 14:17
“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.”
Explanation:
Paul explains that spiritual life goes far beyond dietary rules. What we eat doesn’t define our place in God’s kingdom. What truly matters is our pursuit of righteousness, peace, and joy through the Spirit, which surpasses all external rituals.
📖 Colossians 2:16
“Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink… which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.”
Explanation:
This verse teaches that food laws were symbolic and have now been fulfilled in Christ. Therefore, no one should be condemned or judged based on dietary habits. Our faith rests in Jesus, not in ceremonial customs or outward regulations.
📖 Hebrews 13:9
“Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats…”
Explanation:
The writer warns against confusing teachings and reminds us to be grounded in grace, not in food rules. Our spiritual strength doesn’t come from dietary discipline but from a heart that is anchored in the unchanging love and truth of God.
📖 Acts 13:39
“And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.”
Explanation:
Through Jesus, we are justified in ways the old laws couldn’t offer. This includes the dietary commands under Moses. Salvation and righteousness now come through faith, not through keeping ceremonial food rules or avoiding certain meals.
Find Your Blessings: Top 7 Bible Verses About Helping Others In Need
6. Applying Biblical Wisdom to Daily Eating
Purpose:
This section encourages believers to apply biblical principles—such as moderation, thankfulness, and discernment—when making dietary choices. It reminds us that what we eat should reflect both physical and spiritual wisdom.
📖 1 Corinthians 10:31
“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
Explanation:
Every part of our life, including what we eat, should honor God. This verse calls us to be mindful and intentional, knowing that our daily habits can reflect our love for Him. Even meals become sacred when done in gratitude and worship.
📖 Proverbs 23:20-21
“Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh: For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty…”
Explanation:
Proverbs warns against overindulgence in food and drink. Gluttony and excess can lead to physical and spiritual decline. This verse urges us to approach eating with self-control, keeping our bodies and hearts disciplined for God’s purposes.
📖 Ecclesiastes 10:17
“Blessed art thou, O land, when thy king is the son of nobles, and thy princes eat in due season, for strength, and not for drunkenness!”
Explanation:
Wise eating is about timing and purpose. Food is a gift meant to nourish and strengthen, not for reckless pleasure. This verse reminds us that a godly life includes balanced habits, where meals serve the body and glorify God’s order.
📖 1 Timothy 4:4-5
“For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving…”
Explanation:
Paul emphasizes that all foods are clean when received with thanks. Eating with gratitude changes how we see our meals—from ritual to relationship. God’s blessing makes our food holy when it’s enjoyed with a thankful heart.
📖 Philippians 4:5
“Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.”
Explanation:
Moderation is a fruit of spiritual maturity. This verse urges believers to avoid extremes, even in eating. A heart that honors God will reflect balance in all areas, showing self-control and contentment in daily choices.
📖 Matthew 6:11
“Give us this day our daily bread.”
Explanation:
Jesus taught us to pray for daily provision, not excessive abundance. This verse speaks of trusting God to meet our needs. It encourages a simple, content approach to food—enough for the day, and always with reliance on God.
📖 Isaiah 55:2
“Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not?”
Explanation:
This verse challenges us to evaluate our desires. Are we feeding our souls or just our stomachs? God invites us to seek what truly satisfies—His Word and presence—above the fleeting pleasure of indulgent food.
📖 Psalm 104:14-15
“He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle… and wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine…”
Explanation:
God is the source of all provision, including food that brings both joy and strength. These verses celebrate His goodness in creating meals that nourish and delight. Every bite becomes a reason to praise the Creator who provides so generously.
Conclusion
The question “What Does The Bible Say About Eating Shrimp? 40+ Bible Verses” takes us on a journey through both Old and New Testament teachings. We’ve seen how dietary laws in the Old Covenant were strict, but through Christ, we’ve entered a new age of grace and spiritual freedom. Today, our choices are more about the heart and less about religious restriction.
Understanding God’s Word helps us apply wisdom to everyday decisions like what we eat. Whether you choose to eat shrimp or not, the Bible teaches us to act in love, walk in grace, and honor God in all we do. It’s not about the shrimp—it’s about your relationship with Him.
FAQ’s
What did the Old Testament say about eating shrimp?
In the Old Testament, specifically in Leviticus 11:10, shrimp was considered “unclean” because it lacks fins and scales. Israelites were forbidden from eating it under Mosaic law.
Are Christians allowed to eat shrimp today?
Yes, Christians are not bound by Old Testament dietary laws. Through Christ’s sacrifice (Mark 7:18-19, Acts 10:15), all foods are declared clean, including shrimp.
Does eating shrimp affect my salvation or relationship with God?
No, food does not define your salvation. Romans 14:17 reminds us that the kingdom of God is not about meat and drink, but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
What does grace have to do with dietary choices like shrimp?
Grace frees us from the ceremonial law. Under grace, believers are called to live with wisdom, self-control, and gratitude—making choices based on love and faith, not rituals (Galatians 5:1, Titus 2:11-12).
Should I judge others for eating or not eating shrimp?
No, Romans 14:3 teaches us not to judge others for their food choices. Whether someone eats shrimp or avoids it, what matters is their heart and faith before God.
Want to discover more Bible-based insights? Check out our collection of verses at BibleMiracle.com
