Many are surprised to note that only some of the animals went into the ark two by two! Some animals went in by sevens so there would have been fourteen cattle on board!
"Of every clean beast thou shalt take to thee by sevens, the male and his female: and of beasts that are not clean by two, the male and his female." Genesis 7:2
There seem to be several reasons for the difference in number. First, only clean animals would be offered for sacrifices and second, the clean animals would become a food source after the flood. Although the difference between clean and unclean is not spelled out here in Genesis, it is obvious that Noah knew the difference.
Later on, in Leviticus 11, the Lord stated, "Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, These are the beasts which ye shall eat among all the beasts that are on the earth. Whatsoever parteth the hoof, and is clovenfooted, and cheweth the cud, among the beasts, that shall ye eat. And the swine, though he divide the hoof, and be clovenfooted, yet he cheweth not the cud; he is unclean to you. These shall ye eat of all that are in the waters: whatsoever hath fins and scales in the waters, in the seas, and in the rivers, them shall ye eat." Leviticus 11:2,3,7,9.
Simply stated, the animals God prohibited man from eating were scavengers or other beings undesirable for food. For instance, the fact that the eating of vultures, bats, and mice is prohibited is not an issue with most people. God, the Creator of man, spelled out what was and was not good food to nourish his creation. He called them clean and unclean.
Blessings in your study of God's Word!

Marvin Hunt

There is never a charge for my articles, and if you have a good reason, there is no limit to how many you may request. However, if you find them valuable you may want to order my latest book, History, Mystery and Facts About the Bible. Order at 1-800-845-7618 (ext. 301). You may also order from Amazon.com. Proceeds from the book go to support this ministry.

Blessings!
Marvin Hunt

Http://www.biblehistory.com

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