Deuteronomy 12:15
Notwithstanding thou mayest kill and eat flesh in all thy gates, whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, according to the blessing of the LORD thy God which he hath given thee: the unclean and the clean may eat thereof, as of the roebuck, and as of the hart.
Deuteronomy 12:15 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Deuteronomy, it is explained that the people are allowed to eat meat in all their cities, as long as they desire it and it is provided to them as a blessing from the Lord. The verse goes on to specify that both the unclean and the clean may partake in eating the meat, likening it to the consumption of animals like the roebuck and the hart. This verse serves as a reminder that the act of eating meat is not forbidden, as long as it is done in accordance with the guidelines set forth by God. It also emphasizes that the blessing comes from the Lord, and therefore it should be received with gratitude and reverence. By allowing the consumption of meat, the verse highlights the importance of balance and moderation in all aspects of life, including diet and nourishment.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, there is a theological interpretation that emphasizes the inclusivity of God's provision and blessings. The mention of being able to consume flesh in all the gates signifies that God's blessings and permission to enjoy the bounty of the land are not limited by geographic location. The allowance for both the clean and unclean to partake in the food highlights God's abundant grace that is available to all, regardless of their status. This verse also speaks to the idea of freedom in choice, as individuals are permitted to eat whatever their soul desires, within the boundaries set by God. Furthermore, the reference to animals like the roebuck and hart showcases God's provision for sustenance and enjoyment. This verse ultimately serves as a reminder of God's generosity and the freedom He gives His people to partake in His blessings.
Deuteronomy 12:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
Notwithstanding, thou mayest kill and eat flesh within all thy gates, after all the desire of thy soul, according to the blessing of Jehovah thy God which he hath given thee: the unclean and the clean may eat thereof, as of the gazelle, and as of the hart.
World English Bible
Notwithstanding, you may kill and eat flesh within all your gates, after all the desire of your soul, according to Yahweh your God’s blessing which he has given you. The unclean and the clean may eat of it, as of the gazelle, and as of the deer.
Douay-Rheims
But if thou desirest to eat, and the eating of flesh delight thee, kill, and eat according to the blessing of the Lord thy God, which he hath given thee, in thy cities: whether it be unclean, that is to say, having blemish or defect: or clean, that is to say, sound and without blemish, such as may be offered, as the roe, and the hart, shalt thou eat it:
Geneva Bible (1599)
Notwithstanding thou maiest kill and eate flesh in all thy gates, whatsoeuer thine heart desireth, according to the blessing of the Lord thy God which he hath giuen thee: both the vncleane and the cleane may eate thereof, as of the roe bucke, and of the hart.