Eating catfish falls under the dietary laws in the Old Testament, where fish without fins and scales were considered unclean. However, many Christians believe that these dietary restrictions were lifted in the New Testament, focusing more on spiritual cleanliness than food regulations.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Talking Bad About Your Spouse
What Does The Bible Say About Eating Catfish
Leviticus 11:9-12
“Of all the creatures living in the water of the seas and the streams you may eat any that have fins and scales. But all creatures in the seas or streams that do not have fins and scales—whether among all the swarming things or among all the other living creatures in the water—you are to regard as unclean. And since you are to regard them as unclean, you must not eat their meat; you must regard their carcasses as unclean. Anything living in the water that does not have fins and scales is to be regarded as unclean by you.”
This verse from Leviticus provides guidelines for the Israelites regarding the consumption of seafood. It states that they are allowed to eat creatures from the water that have fins and scales, while creatures without fins and scales are considered unclean and should not be eaten.
Although catfish do not have scales, they possess fins. Therefore, according to this verse, catfish would be regarded as unclean and should not be consumed by those who adhere strictly to the dietary laws outlined in the Old Testament.
1 Timothy 4:3-5
“They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.”
In this passage, Paul is addressing false teachings that promote the forbidding of certain foods and practices. He emphasizes that God created all things, including food, to be received with gratitude by believers who understand the truth. Paul asserts that nothing should be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving and consecrated through prayer.
While the previous verse may suggest that certain foods are considered unclean, this passage in 1 Timothy suggests a different perspective. It highlights the importance of recognizing that God’s creation is good and that all food can be enjoyed if received with gratitude and prayer.
Romans 14:14
“I am convinced, being fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for that person it is unclean.”
In this verse, Paul addresses the issue of eating certain foods that some may consider unclean. He states that he is fully convinced in the Lord Jesus that nothing is inherently unclean. However, he acknowledges that some people may have personal convictions and regard certain things as unclean for themselves.
When it comes to the consumption of catfish, individuals who follow strict interpretations of dietary laws may consider it unclean based on the absence of scales. However, this verse reminds us that personal convictions vary, and what may be considered unclean to one person may not be regarded the same way by another.
Mark 7:14-15
“Again, Jesus called the crowd to him and said, ‘Listen to me, everyone, and understand this. Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them.'”
In this passage, Jesus teaches a lesson about what truly defiles a person. He states that it is not external factors like food that can defile someone. Instead, it is the thoughts, intentions, and actions that originate from within a person that can morally defile them.
While this verse does not directly address the topic of catfish consumption, it offers a broader perspective on the concept of defilement. It suggests that the focus should be on the internal character of a person rather than the external factors, such as what they eat.
Galatians 5:1
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
Galatians 5:1 emphasizes the freedom that believers have in Christ. It encourages them to stand firm and not be burdened by unnecessary rules and regulations. In the context of dietary restrictions, it highlights that in Christ, believers are free from such legalistic practices.
While different interpretations and personal convictions may exist regarding the consumption of specific foods, this verse reminds Christians that their freedom in Christ should not be overshadowed by unnecessary restrictions or burdens.
Acts 10:15
“The voice spoke to him a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.'”
Acts 10:15 recounts the vision Peter had where he was told not to consider anything that God has made clean as impure. It refers to the abolition of the Old Testament dietary laws that classified certain animals as unclean.
In the context of catfish consumption, this verse affirms the idea that in Christ, all things are made clean. It suggests that the dietary restrictions of the Old Covenant are no longer binding, and therefore, catfish can be regarded as clean and suitable for consumption.
Matthew 15:11
“What goes into someone’s mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them.”
Jesus emphasizes in this verse that what a person eats does not defile them morally. Instead, it is the words they speak and the attitudes they display that have the power to defile them.
While this verse may not specifically address catfish consumption, it reinforces the idea that what one eats is not a matter of moral significance. Therefore, the decision to consume catfish or any other food should be based on personal preference and dietary considerations rather than moral implications.
Matthew 7:17-18
“Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.”
Matthew 7:17-18 uses the analogy of a tree to illustrate the principle of good and bad fruit. It suggests that good trees produce good fruit, while bad trees produce bad fruit. The quality of the fruit is reflective of the nature of the tree.
In the context of catfish consumption, this analogy can remind us to consider the source and quality of the food we consume. It encourages us to make wise choices based on factors such as freshness, healthiness, and personal preferences rather than solely relying on cultural or religious labels.
Acts 15:29
“You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things. Farewell.”
In the early Christian community, the apostles instructed believers to abstain from certain practices, including consuming food that was sacrificed to idols, blood, meat from strangled animals, and engaging in sexual immorality.
While catfish consumption is not explicitly mentioned in this verse, it emphasizes the importance of avoiding practices that may be associated with idolatry or immorality. It encourages believers to exercise caution and discernment in their choices, ensuring that their actions align with biblical principles.
Matthew 15:17-18
“Don’t you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them.”
Jesus explains to his disciples that the food one consumes goes through the digestive system and is eventually eliminated. He emphasizes that what truly defiles a person are the things that come from their heart, such as evil thoughts, words, and actions.
Although this verse does not directly address the topic of catfish consumption, it reiterates the principle that what one eats does not have inherent moral implications. The focus should instead be directed towards cultivating a righteous heart and displaying godly character.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
The apostle Paul advises believers to approach every aspect of life, including eating and drinking, with the intention of bringing glory to God. This verse emphasizes that our actions, including our dietary choices, should align with the desire to honor and glorify God.
When it comes to consuming catfish or any other food, this verse reminds Christians to make their choices in a way that positively reflects their relationship with God. It encourages them to consider how their decisions can bring honor to His name.
Proverbs 15:17
“Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred.”
This proverb highlights the value of a meal that is shared in love and harmony, even if it consists of modest portions. It contrasts this with a lavish feast that lacks love and is accompanied by negative emotions such as hatred.
In the context of catfish consumption, this verse reminds us that the significance of a meal extends beyond the specific food being consumed. It underscores the importance of cultivating loving and harmonious relationships, which can greatly enhance the enjoyment and meaning of a meal.
Colossians 2:16-17
“Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.”
In this passage, Paul addresses the Colossian believers, urging them not to allow others to pass judgment on them based on their dietary choices or observance of religious festivals and rituals. He explains that these external practices are mere shadows of the true reality found in Christ.
In the context of catfish consumption, this verse emphasizes the freedom Christians have in Christ to make personal choices regarding food without fear of judgment. It redirects the focus from external practices and rituals to the centrality of one’s relationship with Jesus.
1 Corinthians 8:8
“But food does not bring us nearer to God; we are no worse off if we do not eat, and no better off if we do.”
The apostle Paul addresses the Corinthians’ concerns about eating food that had been offered to idols. He explains that consuming or abstaining from such food has no bearing on their standing before God. It does not make them worse or better in His eyes.
Applying this principle to the consumption of catfish or any other food, this verse highlights that what we eat does not affect our spiritual relationship with God. It reminds us that our worth and righteousness come solely through faith in Jesus Christ, not through dietary choices.
1 Timothy 4:4-5
“For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.”
Paul reassures Timothy that all things created by God are good and should not be rejected. He emphasizes that as long as something is received with gratitude, consecrated through prayer, and aligned with God’s word, it should not be dismissed or regarded as unclean.
When it comes to the consumption of catfish, this verse highlights that it is not inherently unclean or unacceptable, as long as we approach it with thanksgiving and prayer. It underscores the importance of seeking God’s guidance and honoring Him in our choices.
Romans 14:2
“One person’s faith allows them to eat anything, but another, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables.”
In this verse, Paul acknowledges that individuals may have different levels of faith and conviction regarding dietary choices. Some may feel free to eat anything, while others may have personal convictions that lead them to eat only certain foods.
Regarding catfish consumption, this verse encourages mutual respect and understanding among believers who may have differing dietary practices. It emphasizes the need to honor the convictions of others and avoid judging them based on their dietary choices.
Genesis 1:29
“Then God said, ‘I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.’
In the creation account, God initially prescribed a vegetarian diet for humanity. He granted humans permission to eat every seed-bearing plant and every tree with fruit that contains seed.
Although this verse does not specifically mention catfish, it highlights the initial dietary plan established by God for humanity. It affirms the provision of diverse plant-based foods as suitable nourishment and suggests that a vegetarian lifestyle can be a viable choice.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
Paul reminds the Corinthians that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and that God dwells within them. He emphasizes that believers are not their own but have been purchased at a high price through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Therefore, they should honor God with their bodies.
When considering the consumption of catfish or any other food, this verse encourages believers to make choices that honor God and respect the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit. It calls for discernment in maintaining a healthy and God-honoring lifestyle.
Matthew 6:25
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?”
Jesus reminds His disciples not to worry excessively about material needs, such as food and clothing, but to trust in God’s provision. He emphasizes that life is more than mere sustenance and physical necessities.
Applying this principle to the topic of catfish consumption, this verse encourages believers to place their focus on the more significant aspects of life rather than becoming overly preoccupied with dietary concerns. It reminds us to trust in God’s provision and prioritize spiritual and relational aspects of our existence.
Proverbs 23:20-21
“Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.”
Proverbs 23:20-21 offers a cautionary warning against excessive indulgence in alcohol and food. It discourages the overconsumption of meat and warns of the negative consequences that result from gluttony and drunkenness.
Although this verse specifically mentions meat rather than catfish, it conveys a broader principle of moderation and self-control in our consumption habits. It urges us to avoid excessive eating and drinking, promoting balance and wise stewardship of our bodies.
1 Corinthians 10:23
“‘I have the right to do anything,’ you say—but not everything is beneficial. ‘I have the right to do anything’—but not everything is constructive.”
Paul addresses the Corinthians’ assertion that they have the freedom to do anything they desire. He acknowledges their rights but also reminds them that not everything is beneficial or constructive.
In terms of catfish consumption, this verse encourages Christians to consider the potential benefits and consequences of their choices. It emphasizes that liberty should be exercised within the context of what is beneficial and edifying for oneself and others.
Proverbs 13:25
“The righteous eat to their hearts’ content, but the stomach of the wicked goes hungry.”
This proverb draws a contrast between the satisfaction of the righteous and the lack of fulfillment experienced by the wicked. It suggests that righteousness allows for the enjoyment of an abundant and contented life.
While not specifically mentioning catfish or any other food, this verse reminds believers to find contentment and satisfaction in the provision of God, rather than basing their fulfillment on material possessions or specific dietary choices.
Romans 14:21
“It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.”
Paul acknowledges the importance of considering the impact of our actions on others, particularly in areas of personal conviction. He advises believers to refrain from certain behaviors, such as eating meat or drinking wine, if it has the potential to cause a fellow believer to stumble.
In the context of catfish consumption, this verse highlights the need to be sensitive to the convictions and beliefs of others. It encourages Christians to prioritize unity and edification over personal preferences when making food choices.