ויקרא, פרק י״א, פסוק כ״ב

While the Torah generally prohibits eating flying insects, it makes a specific exception for certain types of locusts and grasshoppers [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The fundamental reason for distinguishing between pure and impure species stems from the wisdom of God, who knows exactly which creatures are suited for human consumption. He permitted only those species that do not harm physical health and do not dull or extinguish the light of human intellect and understanding [רלב״ג].

Identifying these exact permitted species has occupied scholars throughout the generations, relying on linguistic analysis, physical traits, and ancient traditions. The first permitted category is named for its massive ability to multiply and swarm [אבן עזרא, חזקוני, פרדס יוסף]. This is a flying, migrating grasshopper that lacks a bald spot on its head [פירושי רד צ הופמן], and in Talmudic and Aramaic traditions, it is known as the Govai [תורה תמימה, נתינה לגר]. A second permitted species is understood in two main ways. One approach connects its name to rocks, identifying it as a creature that climbs and lives in rocky terrains [אבן עזרא, חזקוני]. A different perspective associates its name with swallowing, describing a highly gluttonous and ravenous insect. Physically, it has a bald spot on the front of its head but lacks a tail [פירושי רד צ הופמן], and traditional sources refer to it as the Rashon or Rashina [תורה תמימה, אוהב גר, נתינה לגר].

A third species derives its name from its impressive jumping ability, racing with its legs to leap into the air [חזקוני, פירושי רד צ הופמן]. This insect features both a tail and a bald spot [פירושי רד צ הופמן], and is traditionally called the Nipul [תורה תמימה, נתינה לגר]. Finally, a fourth species, whose name is also recognized in Arabic [אבן עזרא], is defined by the specific way it leaps using its legs [חזקוני]. In traditional texts, this grasshopper is known as the Gadian [תורה תמימה, נתינה לגר].

The repeated emphasis on broad biological categories expands the dietary permission to include other unnamed species. Any insect that shares the pure physical traits of the mentioned locusts is permitted for food, even if its outward appearance differs. This inclusion allows for creatures known historically as the vineyard bird, which resembles the swarming locust, and the Jerusalem Yochanah, which is similar to the rock dwelling species [תורה תמימה, רלב״ג, מלבי״ם]. Over the generations, as absolute fluency in identifying these ancient biblical names was lost, the sages relied heavily on these clear physical signs of purity. To be permitted, a grasshopper must have four legs, two distinct joints for jumping, and four wings that cover the majority of its body.