38 Possibly there is a subtle distinction in meaning between κοινός (koinos) and ἀκάθαρτος (akathartos) here, but according to L&N 53.39 it is difficult to determine precise differences in meaning based on existing contexts. Peter insisted he would not violate the law by eating anything defiled and ritually unclean. These food laws were one of the practices that distinguished Jews from their Gentile neighbors. The practice made table fellowship with Gentiles awkward. For an example of Jewish attitudes to this, see Dan 1:8–16; 1 Macc 1:41–64; 142; Tacitus, History 5.5.

In other versions

But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.”

“Surely not, Lord!” Peter replied. “I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.”

“No, Lord!” Peter said. “For I have never eaten anything impure and ritually unclean.”

“No, Lord,” Peter declared. “I have never eaten anything that our Jewish laws have declared impure and unclean.”

But Peter said, “Certainly not, Lord! For I have never eaten anything common and unclean!”

But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.

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