The answer is: Quail

Deut 14:11-20

In the ancient text of Deuteronomy, cleanliness among foods, particularly animals and birds, was highly significant for the Israelites. When it comes to unclean and clean birds, the quail stands out—it was tasty, nutritious, and associated deeply with the seasonal migrations that provided sustenance during harsh times.

Quails, identifiable by their small size and distinctive call, were not just a culinary delight; they represented God’s providence when He provided quails to the Israelites during their Exodus journey (Exodus 16:13). This miraculous event signified not merely physical sustenance but also hope and divine concern for the needs of the people wandering the desert.

Interestingly, the cleanliness laws imposed certain ramifications. For instance, they offered influential social norms tied to spiritual health; what one eats can affect one’s community relationships and adherence to guidelines. It varied widely across cultures. In many places, cleanliness in diets manifested practical wisdom regarding health alongside spiritual significance.

Moreover, there's linguistic flair in Hebrew; what's labeled clean or unclean reveals broader themes relevant to strategy and survival during biblical times. The lists from Deuteronomy remind adherents to maintain boundaries—a practice as poignant today when one considers personal choices regarding diets and the sources of that food.

So, as we ponder the humble quail, it's not just lunch; it serves as a conversation starter about sustenance, community, divine care, and perhaps our ecological choices today!