Leviticus 11:39

If an animal that you may eat dies, anyone who touches the carcass will be unclean until evening.

Study Bible

If an animal that you may eat dies
This phrase refers to animals that are considered clean according to the dietary laws outlined earlier in Leviticus 11. The Hebrew word for "animal" here is "בְּהֵמָה" (behemah), which generally refers to domesticated animals. The context of "that you may eat" underscores the distinction between clean and unclean animals, a central theme in Levitical law. Historically, these dietary laws served not only as a means of physical health but also as a spiritual discipline, setting the Israelites apart from surrounding nations. The death of an animal, even a clean one, introduces a state of impurity, highlighting the pervasive impact of death and decay in a fallen world.

dies
The Hebrew word used here is "מוּת" (muth), meaning to die or perish. In the ancient Near Eastern context, death was often associated with impurity and separation from the divine. The death of an animal, even one permissible for consumption, signifies a transition from life to death, which in the Levitical system, necessitates a period of purification. This reflects the broader biblical theme of life and death, where life is a gift from God, and death is a consequence of sin.

anyone who touches the carcass
The act of touching, "נָגַע" (naga), implies physical contact, which in the Levitical law, results in ritual impurity. The "carcass," or "נְבֵלָה" (nevelah), refers to the dead body of the animal. This regulation emphasizes the holiness code's concern with maintaining purity and the symbolic separation from death. In a spiritual sense, it serves as a reminder of the need for holiness and the avoidance of anything that defiles.

will be unclean until evening
The term "unclean," or "טָמֵא" (tame), indicates a state of ritual impurity. The condition of being unclean until evening suggests a temporary state, one that can be resolved with the passage of time and adherence to purification rituals. The evening marks the beginning of a new day in the Hebrew calendar, symbolizing renewal and restoration. This reflects the biblical principle that while impurity and sin are realities of human existence, they are not permanent states for those who seek purification and restoration through God's provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The primary human author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God and communicated them to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The recipients of the Levitical laws, including dietary regulations, as part of their covenant relationship with God.

3. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites received the law, emphasizing their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

4. Clean and Unclean Animals
Categories established by God to teach the Israelites about holiness and separation.

5. Evening
The time by which ceremonial uncleanness would end, symbolizing a new beginning or purification.

Teaching Points

Understanding Holiness
The laws in Leviticus, including dietary laws, were given to teach the Israelites about holiness and separation from pagan practices. They were a constant reminder of God's call to be distinct and pure.

Ceremonial vs. Moral Law
Recognize the distinction between ceremonial laws, which were specific to Israel's covenant, and moral laws, which are timeless. The ceremonial uncleanness from touching a carcass was a temporary state, pointing to the need for spiritual purity.

Symbolism of Evening
The cleansing by evening symbolizes renewal and the hope of a new day. It points to the ultimate cleansing and renewal found in Christ, who purifies us from all sin.

Practical Implications for Today
While Christians are not bound by Old Testament dietary laws, the principles of holiness, purity, and separation from sin remain relevant. We are called to live distinct lives, reflecting God's holiness in our actions and choices.

Community and Accountability
The communal aspect of these laws reminds us of our responsibility to one another in the body of Christ. We should encourage and support each other in living lives that honor God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the context of Leviticus 11:39 help us appreciate the concept of holiness in the Old Testament?

2. In what ways does the New Testament reinterpret the concept of clean and unclean, particularly in relation to food?

3. How can the principle of being "unclean until evening" be applied to our understanding of spiritual renewal and forgiveness in Christ?

4. What are some modern-day practices or habits that might parallel the idea of ceremonial uncleanness, and how should Christians respond to them?

5. How can we balance the freedom we have in Christ with the call to live holy and distinct lives in today's world?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:29-30
Discusses God's original provision of food, highlighting the shift in dietary laws post-Fall and post-Flood.

Acts 10:9-16
Peter's vision of clean and unclean animals, illustrating the New Testament shift in understanding of dietary laws.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Explains the limitations of ceremonial cleansing and points to the superior cleansing through Christ's sacrifice.

Mark 7:18-19
Jesus' teaching on what truly defiles a person, emphasizing internal purity over external observance.

Romans 14:14-20
Discusses Christian liberty concerning food, focusing on love and conscience over legalistic adherence.