Definition: The priests shall not eat of any thing that is dead of itself, or torn, whether it be fowl or beast.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 44:31. It's a really important and somewhat symbolic passage about the relationship between God and His people. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God doesn’t want his people to eat anything that’s already dead or broken. It’s a rule set by God, designed to keep things pure and holy. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “The priests shall not eat of any thing that is dead of itself…” – This means that priests (leaders) are not allowed to consume anything that has already died naturally. Think about it like this: a dead animal isn’t nutritious, and eating it would be a violation of God's standards. “…or torn, whether it be fowl or beast.” – This is the crucial part! It applies to both animals (like birds and livestock) and things that have been broken or damaged – like torn fabric or a fallen tree. It’s about maintaining purity and preventing contamination. What's the why behind this rule? The Bible uses this verse as a reminder of God’s holiness and perfection. It’s a way for God to protect His people from things that would be considered unclean or unworthy. It speaks to a higher standard – a standard of purity and respect. In essence, it's a command about respecting God’s creation and keeping his standards. Context is Key: This verse usually appears in the context of God revealing Himself to Moses and promising a new covenant with Israel. It’s a symbolic instruction meant to emphasize God's control over everything and that He values purity above all else. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Give you a real-world example of how this principle might be applied?