“... The Letter of Aristeas’ exposition on this subject begins with a sweeping statement: “In general everything is similarly constituted in regard to natural reasoning, being governed by one supreme power, and in each particular everything has a profound reason for it, both the things from which we abstain in use and those from which we partake.” Since every decision is governed by reason, then one need “not take the contemptible view that Moses enacted this legislation because of an excessive preoccupation with mice and weasels and suchlike creatures.” Rather, “everything has been solemnly set in order for unblemished investigation and amendment of life for the sake of righteousness.” It is for this reason that Moses permitted domesticated and herbivorous birds, but prohibited wild and carnivorous fowl, since the latter dominate the former and unjustly find food at their expense; “and not only that, they also seize lambs and kids and outrage human beings dead or alive.” In labeling wild birds of prey “impure,” Moses binds those bound by the law to act righteously and to not exert their strength over those who depend upon them. They are to act like the gentle permitted birds and not the predatory prohibited birds. Permitted and prohibited animals are allegories for pious and impious action. Therefore, Moses uses these creatures to teach proper decorum. ...”