Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Leviticus 11:9 mean?
A: Leviticus 11:9 teaches the kosher laws regarding fish. According to Orthodox Jewish tradition, only fish that have both fins and scales may be eaten. This verse specifies that these fish can come from any water source—seas, rivers, or other bodies of water. The presence of both fins and scales is a sign that the fish is permitted (kasher) for consumption according to Torah law.
Q: Why are fins and scales important for kosher fish?
A: Fins and scales are the Torah's identifying signs for permitted fish, as stated in Leviticus 11:9. The Talmud (Chullin 66b) explains that a fish must have both features to be kosher. Rashi comments that scales must be removable without damaging the skin. These signs help Jews adhere to the dietary laws (kashrut) given in the Torah, ensuring spiritual purity in eating.
Q: Can you give examples of kosher and non-kosher fish based on this verse?
A: Yes! Kosher fish include salmon, tuna, and herring—all of which have both fins and removable scales. Non-kosher fish include catfish, eels, and sharks, which either lack scales or have scales that cannot be easily removed (as per Halacha). The Rambam (Hilchot Ma'achalot Asurot 1:24) elaborates on these classifications based on the Torah's criteria.
Q: How does Leviticus 11:9 apply to Jews today?
A: This verse remains a foundational law of kashrut (Jewish dietary laws) observed by Orthodox Jews today. When buying fish, Jews check for fins and scales or rely on reliable kosher certification. The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 153) explains that these laws teach discipline and holiness, reminding Jews of their spiritual mission even in everyday activities like eating.
Q: What if a fish has scales but no fins?
A: The Talmud (Niddah 51b) clarifies that a fish must have both fins and scales to be kosher. If it lacks fins (even if it has scales), it is not permitted. This strict requirement comes directly from the Torah's wording in Leviticus 11:9, which lists both traits as necessary. The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 83:1) codifies this rule for practical observance.
Overview of the Verse
The verse (Vayikra 11:9) delineates the criteria for kosher fish: only those possessing both fins (סְנַפִּיר) and scales (קַשְׂקֶשֶׂת) are permitted for consumption. This law is part of the broader system of kashrut (dietary laws) given in the Torah, which distinguishes between permitted and forbidden foods.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Vayikra 11:9) emphasizes that both fins and scales must be present for a fish to be kosher. He notes that while all fish with scales also have fins, the Torah mentions both to teach that scales are the definitive sign. This aligns with the Talmudic principle (Chullin 66b) that any fish possessing scales will invariably have fins, but the reverse is not always true.
Rambam's Halachic Perspective
In Mishneh Torah (Hilchot Ma'achalot Asurot 1:24), the Rambam codifies this law, stating that only fish with both fins and scales are permitted. He further clarifies that the scales must be removable without damaging the skin—a key halachic criterion for determining kosher status.
Talmudic and Midrashic Insights
Practical Halachic Considerations
Later poskim (halachic decisors), such as the Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 83:1), elaborate on identifying kosher fish:
Spiritual Lessons
The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 155) connects this law to the broader theme of holiness (kedushah), teaching that adhering to dietary restrictions elevates the soul by cultivating discipline and mindfulness in consumption.