Numbers 19:6

The priest is to take cedar wood, hyssop, and scarlet wool and throw them onto the burning heifer.

Study Bible

The priest
The role of the priest in ancient Israel was central to the spiritual life of the community. The Hebrew word for priest, "kohen," signifies one who is set apart to perform sacred duties. In this context, the priest acts as a mediator between God and the people, emphasizing the importance of holiness and purity in approaching God. The priest's involvement underscores the divine authority and sanctity of the ritual.

is to take
This phrase indicates a command, reflecting the divine instructions given to Moses and Aaron. The Hebrew verb "laqach" implies an active, deliberate action, signifying the priest's obedience to God's specific requirements. This obedience is a model for the Israelites, demonstrating the importance of following God's commands precisely.

cedar wood
Cedar wood, known for its durability and pleasant aroma, symbolizes incorruptibility and strength. In the ancient Near East, cedar was highly valued and often used in temple construction, including Solomon's Temple. Its inclusion in the ritual signifies the enduring nature of God's covenant and the purification process.

hyssop
Hyssop is a small, aromatic plant used in various purification rites in the Bible. The Hebrew word "ezov" is associated with cleansing and purification, as seen in Psalm 51:7, "Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean." Hyssop's use in this ritual highlights the theme of spiritual cleansing and renewal.

and scarlet wool
Scarlet wool, dyed with a bright red color, symbolizes both sin and redemption. The color scarlet is often associated with sin (Isaiah 1:18) but also with the blood of atonement. The Hebrew word "shani" refers to the vividness of the color, reminding the Israelites of the cost of sin and the need for atonement through sacrifice.

and throw them
The act of throwing these items onto the burning heifer is a symbolic gesture of transferring impurities and sin. The Hebrew verb "shalach" conveys a sense of casting away or sending forth, representing the removal of sin from the community. This action is a physical manifestation of spiritual purification.

onto the burning heifer
The burning of the heifer, a red cow without blemish, is central to the purification ritual. The heifer's complete consumption by fire signifies total purification and the complete removal of impurity. The Hebrew word for heifer, "parah," emphasizes the animal's role in this unique sacrificial rite, which foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who purifies believers from sin. The burning process symbolizes the refining and purifying work of God in the lives of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
The priest plays a crucial role in the purification process, acting as a mediator between God and the people. In this context, the priest is responsible for performing the ritual of the red heifer, which is essential for the purification from sin.

2. Cedar Wood
Cedar wood is known for its durability and pleasant aroma. In biblical symbolism, it often represents strength and incorruptibility. It is used here as part of the purification ritual.

3. Hyssop
A plant used in purification rites, hyssop symbolizes cleansing and purification. It is often associated with the application of blood or water for ceremonial cleansing.

4. Scarlet Wool
Scarlet wool, dyed with a bright red color, symbolizes sin and its consequences, as well as the blood required for atonement and purification.

5. The Burning Heifer
The red heifer is a unique sacrificial animal used in the purification process. Its ashes are used to create the water of purification, which cleanses those who have become ceremonially unclean.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Purification
The elements used in the ritual (cedar wood, hyssop, scarlet wool) each carry deep symbolic meanings that point to the need for spiritual cleansing and the seriousness of sin.

The Role of the Priest
The priest's involvement underscores the necessity of mediation in the process of purification, pointing to Christ as our ultimate High Priest.

The Significance of Sacrifice
The burning of the red heifer and the use of its ashes highlight the cost of purification and foreshadow the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus for our sins.

The Continuity of Scripture
The connections between Old Testament rituals and New Testament fulfillment in Christ demonstrate the unity and continuity of God's redemptive plan.

Practical Purity
While the ritual is ancient, the principle of seeking purity in our lives remains relevant, calling us to live in holiness and seek cleansing through Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the elements used in the purification ritual (cedar wood, hyssop, scarlet wool) enhance your understanding of the seriousness of sin and the need for purification?

2. In what ways does the role of the priest in Numbers 19:6 point to the work of Jesus as our High Priest?

3. How does the concept of sacrifice in the Old Testament rituals deepen your appreciation for the sacrifice of Christ?

4. What are some practical ways you can seek spiritual purity in your daily life, drawing from the principles in Numbers 19:6?

5. How do the connections between the Old Testament purification rituals and New Testament teachings on Christ's sacrifice impact your understanding of the continuity of Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9:13-14
This passage in Hebrews draws a parallel between the ashes of the red heifer and the sacrifice of Christ, emphasizing the superior cleansing power of Christ's blood.

Psalm 51:7
David's plea for purification with hyssop highlights the symbolic use of hyssop in cleansing from sin, connecting to the purification rituals in Numbers.

John 19:29
The use of hyssop at the crucifixion of Jesus connects the Old Testament purification rituals to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.