The answer is: Those without fins and scales

Deut 14:9

In Deuteronomy 14:9, we learn about the dietary laws that set ancient Israelites apart from neighboring cultures. This wasn’t merely about health; it was foundational to their identity and holiness. When it comes to aquatic life, only fish that possess both fins and scales were considered clean and permissible for consumption. So, foods like shrimp, catfish, and eels, which lack one of those two features, were off the menu!

The concept of "clean" and "unclean" extends beyond just diet—a reflection of spiritual health too. Such distinctions were meant to cultivate mindfulness about what enters the body and, metaphorically, what fills the heart. This illustrates a profound teaching that what we choose to embrace or avoid can entice us closer to, or pull us further away from, ethical living.

You might find it fascinating that these categories echo through many cultures and faith traditions, where certain animals are seen as sacred or tainted. In addition, casting light on a little trivia, the ancient Egyptians looked upon fish distinctly, sometimes venerating carp! Yet, for the Israelites, sticking to finned and scaled fish was intrinsic to maintaining a communal and sacred boundary.

Overall, it serves as a charming reminder of how food reflects the values of a society, illusioning glimpses of spirituality and ethics—all bouncing back to that deep desire for connection, both with nature’s offerings and a higher purpose.