In the Bible, specifically in the book of Leviticus, there are guidelines provided regarding which animals are considered clean and suitable for consumption. These guidelines apply to the Israelites and are part of the dietary laws outlined in the Old Testament.
According to Leviticus 11:3-8, there are certain criteria that determine whether an animal is considered clean or unclean for consumption. It states that animals with a split hoof divided in two and that chew the cud are permissible to eat. This means that animals like the deer, gazelle, roe deer, wild goat, ibex, antelope, and mountain sheep are allowed to be consumed.
However, the passage also mentions specific animals that are not to be eaten, despite meeting one of the criteria mentioned. The camel, rabbit, and coney (or hyrax) are listed as unclean animals, even though they chew the cud. These animals have a divided hoof but are not permitted for consumption.
It is important to note that these dietary laws were given to the Israelites as part of their religious and cultural practices. They were meant to set the Israelites apart from other nations and to teach them obedience and reverence towards God. These laws were not necessarily given for health reasons or as a universal commandment for all people.
In the New Testament, Jesus declared all foods clean, abolishing the dietary restrictions mentioned in the Old Testament. This is mentioned in Mark 7:19, where Jesus states, “For it doesn’t go into their heart but into their stomach, and then out of the body.” By saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean, indicating that dietary restrictions were no longer necessary for his followers.
Therefore, from a biblical perspective, there is no specific prohibition against eating goat meat. As long as the goat meets the criteria of having a split hoof divided in two and chewing the cud, it can be considered clean and permissible for consumption according to the Old Testament dietary laws. However, it is important to remember that these laws are not binding for Christians, as Jesus declared all foods clean in the New Testament.
The Bible does not specifically address goat meat; rather, it provides guidelines regarding which animals are considered clean and suitable for consumption. Goat meat can be consumed if the goat meets the criteria of having a split hoof divided in two and chewing the cud. However, it is essential to understand that these dietary laws were given to the Israelites and are not binding for Christians today.