Leviticus 11:37

If a carcass falls on any seed for sowing, the seed is clean;

Study Bible

If any carcass
The Hebrew word for "carcass" is "נְבֵלָה" (nevelah), which refers to the dead body of an animal. In the context of Leviticus, carcasses are often associated with impurity and defilement. The Israelites were given specific laws to distinguish between clean and unclean animals, and touching or consuming the carcass of an unclean animal rendered a person ceremonially unclean. This highlights the importance of purity and holiness in the daily lives of the Israelites, as they were called to be set apart for God.

falls on
The Hebrew verb "נָפַל" (naphal) means "to fall" or "to drop." This implies an accidental or natural occurrence, rather than an intentional act. The use of this verb suggests that the laws concerning purity were not just about intentional actions but also about how to handle unforeseen circumstances. It reflects God's understanding of human life and the need for practical guidelines to maintain holiness even in accidental situations.

any seed for sowing
The phrase "seed for sowing" refers to seeds that are intended to be planted in the ground to produce crops. In Hebrew, the word for "seed" is "זֶרַע" (zera). Seeds are symbolic of potential and future growth, representing the sustenance and provision that God provides. The mention of seeds in this context underscores the importance of agriculture in ancient Israelite society and the reliance on God's provision through the land.

it is clean
The declaration that the seed remains "clean" despite contact with a carcass is significant. The Hebrew word for "clean" is "טָהוֹר" (tahor), which denotes purity and suitability for use in worship and daily life. This provision indicates that the potential for life and growth inherent in the seed is not compromised by accidental contact with impurity. It reflects God's grace and the understanding that life and sustenance are ultimately under His sovereign control. This assurance of cleanliness despite contact with death can be seen as a metaphor for the redemptive power of God, who brings life from death and purity from impurity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The recipients of the Levitical laws, including dietary and purity laws, as they journeyed through the wilderness.

3. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites received the law, emphasizing their need for guidance and holiness.

4. Seed for Sowing
Represents agricultural practices and the importance of maintaining purity in what is used for sustenance.

5. Carcass
Refers to the dead body of an animal, which in the context of Levitical law, could render objects unclean.

Teaching Points

Purity in Daily Life
The law concerning seeds and carcasses teaches us about maintaining purity in our daily activities and choices.

God's Provision
Recognize that God provides for our needs, and we must steward His provisions with care and respect.

Spiritual Growth
Just as seeds must be kept pure for growth, our hearts must be kept pure for spiritual growth and receptivity to God's Word.

Holiness and Separation
The laws in Leviticus remind us of the call to be holy and separate from the world, living lives that reflect God's standards.

Symbolism of Seeds
Seeds symbolize potential and growth; we are called to nurture our spiritual lives to bear fruit for God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of purity in Leviticus 11:37 apply to our spiritual lives today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that the "seeds" we plant in our lives remain clean and undefiled?

3. How does the principle of separation in Leviticus relate to the New Testament teachings on holiness?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to maintain purity in our daily interactions and decisions?

5. How can the symbolism of seeds in the Bible inspire us to cultivate spiritual growth and maturity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:29
Discusses God's provision of seed-bearing plants for food, highlighting the importance of seeds in God's creation.

Matthew 13:3-9
The Parable of the Sower, where seeds represent the Word of God, drawing a spiritual parallel to purity and growth.

1 Corinthians 15:36-38
Paul uses the metaphor of seeds to describe resurrection, emphasizing transformation and new life.

Deuteronomy 22:9
Warns against sowing different kinds of seeds together, underscoring the theme of purity and separation.

Mark 4:26-29
The Parable of the Growing Seed, illustrating the mysterious and divine nature of growth, akin to spiritual growth.