Is it a sin to eat fat and bone marrow?

BibleAsk Team

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Fat

In addition to the restrictions of clean and unclean animals, God commanded His children not to eat animal fat or blood. “This is a lasting ordinance for the generations to come, wherever you live: You must not eat any fat or any blood” (Leviticus 3:17 also Leviticus 7:22-25). However, other fats which are found in dairy products (butter) and plants (nuts, fruits such as avocados and oil such as olive oil) were allowed (Genesis 1:29; Exodus 29:2; Isaiah 7:22; Genesis 43:10). God made healthy fats to be eaten in moderation to keep His people in the best physical condition possible. “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31).

God created mankind and, in His wisdom, prohibited the eating of animal fat to avoid disease. Animal food products are high in saturated fat. Dietary research by the American Heart Association and the World Heart Federation have shown that eating foods that contain saturated fats raise the level of cholesterol in the blood. High levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the limited intake of total fatty substances and encourages a shift of its consumption away from saturated to unsaturated fats.

Bone Marrow

As for bone marrow, the Bible does not explicitly state that it is forbidden to eat it. In fact, Isaiah 25:6 shows that rich foods in celebration included marrow. But just because the Bible doesn’t explicitly condemn something is not to say that the Bible recommends it. For example, the Bible allows the eating of clean animal meat, yet we know that those who eat a lot of animal meat are at a higher risk for more diseases, such as heart problems, cancer… etc. than those who abstain from meat.

The original ideal diet didn’t include flesh meats (Genesis 1:29, Genesis 3:18). Therefore, it is important to let the Holy Spirit lead and convict, and it is best to avoid those things that could be harmful to our bodies so that we can take care of the temple that God has given to us (1 Corinthians 6:19).

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In His service,
BibleAsk Team

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