Shrimp might seem like an odd topic to appear in the Bible, but there are dietary laws in the Old Testament that address shellfish, including shrimp. Do those laws still apply to Christians today, or is there a different approach for modern believers? Let’s explore what the Bible says about eating shrimp and how it relates to our faith.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About missionaries
What Does The Bible Say About shrimp
Leviticus 11:9-12
“These you may eat of all that are in the waters: whatever has fins and scales in the waters, in the seas, and in the rivers, that you may eat. But all in the seas or in the rivers that do not have fins and scales, all that move in the water or any living thing which is in the water, they are an abomination to you. They shall be an abomination to you; you shall not eat their flesh, but you shall regard their carcasses as an abomination. Whatever in the water does not have fins or scales—that shall be an abomination to you.”
These verses from Leviticus provide dietary regulations for the Israelites, specifically concerning seafood. According to these guidelines, shrimp, being without fins and scales, is considered an abomination and should not be eaten.
As a Christian, it is important to understand the cultural and historical context in which these dietary laws were given. While some Christians still adhere to these regulations, many believe that these dietary laws were specific to the Israelites and no longer apply under the new covenant in Christ. Ultimately, dietary choices are a matter of personal conviction and should be made with prayer and discernment.
Acts 10:9-15
“The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray. And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. And there came a voice to him: ‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat.’ But Peter said, ‘By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.’ And the voice came to him again a second time, ‘What God has made clean, do not call common.'”
This passage recounts Peter’s visionary experience where he sees a sheet with various animals, including unclean ones according to Jewish dietary laws. In the vision, Peter is instructed to eat, but he refuses, adhering to the traditional Jewish dietary restrictions. However, God responds by telling Peter not to call anything unclean that He has made clean.
This passage is significant as it represents a turning point in the early Church’s understanding of dietary restrictions. It demonstrates that through Christ, the dietary laws are no longer binding, and all foods are considered clean. Therefore, as Christians, we are not bound by the Old Testament dietary regulations concerning shrimp. However, personal convictions and health choices may still influence an individual’s decision to consume certain foods.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
In this verse, Paul emphasizes the importance of doing all things, including eating, for the glory of God. As Christians, our dietary choices should align with this principle. While the Bible provides guidance on certain foods, including shrimp, it is ultimately up to each individual to discern what is pleasing to God in their dietary decisions.
Choosing to avoid or consume shrimp should not be the basis of judgment or division among believers. Instead, let us prioritize unity, love, and respect for one another’s choices, focusing on honoring God in all aspects of our lives.
Romans 14:14
“I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean.”
Paul’s words in this verse reflect the freedom Christians have in Christ when it comes to dietary choices. While addressing disputes among early believers regarding food, Paul acknowledges that nothing is inherently unclean. However, he also recognizes that some individuals may consider certain foods as unclean due to their own convictions.
Applying this principle to the consumption of shrimp, it emphasizes the importance of respecting differing opinions and avoiding judgment. If an individual considers shrimp to be unclean based on their personal convictions or cultural background, it is important to honor and support their decision while maintaining unity in the body of Christ.
Colossians 2:16-17
“Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ.”
In Colossians, Paul urges believers not to be judged by others regarding matters of food and drink. While the dietary regulations of the Old Testament were shadows of things to come, Paul emphasizes that the substance, or true significance, is found in Christ.
Therefore, as followers of Christ, our focus should be on the redemption and righteousness offered through Him, rather than getting caught up in legalistic debates about specific foods. As long as our dietary choices align with biblical principles of love and gratitude to God, we should not allow others to pass judgment on us or use food as a source of division within the Church.
Mark 7:14-15
“And he called the people to him again and said to them, ‘Hear me, all of you, and understand: There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.”
In this passage, Jesus addresses the crowd and teaches them about true defilement. He explains that what enters a person’s body does not defile them but rather what comes from within, such as evil thoughts and actions.
While this verse does not specifically mention dietary choices like shrimp, it emphasizes the importance of focusing on internal righteousness and character rather than external rituals or regulations. It reminds us that our relationship with God goes beyond what we eat or don’t eat, and that true defilement comes from the condition of our hearts and how we live our lives.
Proverbs 25:16
“If you find honey, eat just enough—too much of it, and you will vomit.”
This verse from Proverbs offers wisdom regarding moderation in our food choices. While it does not specifically address shrimp or any particular food, it highlights the importance of balanced and temperate eating habits.
Applying this principle to the topic of shrimp, it encourages Christians to consider their consumption in moderation and be mindful of their overall dietary choices. Balancing our food intake, including seafood, can help promote good health and wellness, allowing us to serve and honor God with our bodies.
Genesis 9:3
“Every moving thing that lives shall be food for you. And as I gave you the green plants, I give you everything.”
In this verse, God permits Noah and his descendants to consume all living creatures as food, indicating a broad range of dietary options. This verse establishes the general principle that God has given all creatures for mankind’s nourishment.
While this verse does not specifically address shrimp, it reflects God’s provision and allows Christians the freedom to choose from the wide variety of permissible food options, understanding that all good things come from Him. It is important to approach our food choices with gratitude, recognizing God’s abundant provision and enjoying the bounty of His creation.
Luke 10:7
“And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the laborer deserves his wages. Do not go from house to house.”
Jesus, in His instructions to the seventy-two disciples, emphasizes the importance of contentment and acceptance when it comes to food and hospitality. The focus of this passage is more on the reception of food and not necessarily on the specific dietary choices.
Applying this principle to the consumption of shrimp, it reminds us of the importance of gratefulness and appreciation when receiving food from others, regardless of what is served. Instead of worrying about the specifics, we should focus on the relationships, fellowship, and expressions of love that occur when sharing a meal with others.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
In this passage, Paul describes the manifestations of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. One of the fruits of the Spirit is self-control, which encompasses discipline over various aspects of our lives, including our dietary choices.
Applying the principle of self-control to the topic of eating shrimp, it reminds us to make wise and balanced choices that honor God and promote stewardship of our bodies. This includes being mindful of the health benefits and potential risks associated with consuming certain foods, and striving for moderation in all areas of our lives.
Matthew 4:4
“But he answered, ‘It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.””
When Jesus encountered temptation in the wilderness, He responded with this statement, emphasizing the importance of spiritual nourishment and reliance on God’s Word.
While this verse does not directly address the consumption of shrimp or specific foods, it reminds us that our physical sustenance is not the sole source of life. As Christians, we are called to prioritize our spiritual well-being by seeking nourishment and guidance from Scripture, recognizing that our ultimate satisfaction is found in a deep relationship with God.
1 Timothy 4:4-5
“For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.”
Paul, in his instruction to Timothy, affirms that all things created by God are good and can be partaken of with thanksgiving. This addresses the broader concept of God’s provision and blessing for His creation.
Applying this principle to the topic of shrimp, it reminds us that our enjoyment of food, including seafood, should be accompanied by gratitude and a recognition of God’s goodness. As long as our food choices are made in alignment with biblical principles and are received with thanksgiving, we can partake of them without guilt or hesitation.
John 6:35
“Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.'”
In this verse, Jesus declares Himself as the ultimate source of satisfaction and nourishment for our lives. His statement highlights the spiritual hunger and thirst within us that can only be satisfied through a relationship with Him.
Although this verse does not directly address dietary choices or provide specific guidance on consuming shrimp, it reminds us that our ultimate fulfillment and sustenance are found in Jesus. While food can satisfy temporary physical hunger, the deepest longings of our souls can only be satisfied through a personal connection with Him.
Psalm 34:8
“Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!”
This verse from Psalms encourages us to experience the goodness of the Lord firsthand and to find refuge in Him. It invites us to taste and see for ourselves the blessings that come from a relationship with God.
While this verse does not directly relate to the consumption of shrimp, it reminds us that our choices should ultimately lead us to seek the goodness and blessings that come from God. As we partake of the provisions He has given us, including food, let us be mindful of His goodness and express gratitude for His abundant provision.
Romans 14:1-4
“As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables. Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, and let not the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him. Who are you to pass judgment on the servant of another? It is before his own master that he stands or falls. And he will be upheld, for the Lord is able to make him stand.”
Paul addresses the matter of differing opinions regarding food choices in this passage. He encourages believers to avoid quarreling over such matters and emphasizes that what one chooses to eat or abstain from is a personal conviction that should not be a source of judgment or division within the Church.
Applying this principle to the consumption of shrimp, it highlights the importance of respecting others’ dietary choices and avoiding judgment or discrimination. As Christians, we are called to unity in Christ, even when our convictions differ. Let us prioritize love, acceptance, and understanding, seeking common ground and fostering an atmosphere of grace and fellowship.
Proverbs 23:20-21
“Be not among drunkards or among gluttonous eaters of meat, for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and slumber will clothe them with rags.”
In this passage, Proverbs caution against excess in eating and drinking. It advises against indulging in gluttonous behaviors that can lead to undesirable consequences such as poverty and excessive sleepiness.
While this verse does not specifically mention shrimp or any particular food, it encourages Christians to exercise self-control and avoid excess in their dietary habits. This wisdom from Proverbs reminds us to be mindful of moderation in all areas of our lives, including our food choices.
Matthew 15:11
“It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.”
In this verse, Jesus clarifies that it is not the food one consumes that defiles them but rather the words and actions that proceed from the heart.
Although this verse does not specifically address the topic of shrimp or any particular food, it emphasizes the importance of inner purity and the need to guard our thoughts, words, and intentions. While our dietary choices can impact our physical health, our words and actions have a more significant impact on our character and relationships. Let us prioritize cultivating a heart that reflects Christ’s love, grace, and wisdom.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
Paul reminds the Corinthians that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the need to honor God with their physical bodies.
Applying this principle to the consumption of shrimp, it reminds Christians to approach their dietary choices with discernment and consideration of how they impact their bodies and overall well-being. While dietary preferences and restrictions may vary, we are called to make choices that honor and respect our bodies as vessels of the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 15:17-18
“Do you not see that whatever goes into the mouth passes into the stomach and is expelled? But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person.”
Jesus, in this passage, teaches that the food one consumes merely passes through the body and does not have spiritual consequences. He emphasizes that true defilement comes from the motivations, intentions, and words that originate from within.
This verse does not specifically address the topic of shrimp or any particular food. Instead, it encourages believers to examine their hearts and prioritize spiritual purity rather than obsessing over external regulations or dietary choices. Let us be mindful of the thoughts and words that we express, ensuring that they reflect a heart surrendered to Christ.
Genesis 1:29
“And God said, ‘Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.”
In the beginning, God provided Adam and Eve with a vegetarian diet, granting them permission to eat every plant yielding seed and every tree with seed in its fruit.
While this verse does not specifically address the consumption of shrimp or seafood, it highlights God’s initial dietary plan for humanity. Christians interpret this verse in various ways, with some viewing it as an endorsement of a vegetarian lifestyle. However, others believe that God’s allowance for the consumption of animals, including seafood, came after the flood account in Genesis.
1 Corinthians 8:8
“Food will not commend us to God. We are no worse off if we do not eat, and no better off if we do.”
Paul, in addressing the issue of food offered to idols, emphasizes that the particular food one consumes does not affect their standing or relationship with God.
While this verse does not specifically mention shrimp or any specific food, it reminds us that our food choices do not impact our righteousness or salvation. Instead, God looks at the heart and the disposition of our faith. Let us focus on cultivating a genuine and vibrant relationship with Him rather than becoming preoccupied with external regulations or dietary concerns.