Then
The word "Then" serves as a connective term, linking the instructions in this chapter to the preceding laws and regulations given by God. It indicates a continuation of the divine communication and legal framework established in the previous chapters. In the broader context of Leviticus, this word underscores the sequential and orderly nature of God's revelation to His people, emphasizing that each command is part of a larger, divinely orchestrated plan for holiness and community life.

the LORD
The term "the LORD" is a translation of the Hebrew name "YHWH," often vocalized as Yahweh. This is the covenant name of God, signifying His eternal, self-existent nature and His personal relationship with Israel. It is a reminder of God's sovereignty, faithfulness, and holiness. In the context of Leviticus, it highlights that the laws given are not merely human constructs but divine mandates from the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, who desires a holy people set apart for His purposes.

said
The word "said" indicates direct communication from God to Moses. In Hebrew, the verb "amar" is used, which conveys the act of speaking or declaring. This emphasizes the authority and clarity of God's instructions. It is a reminder that the laws and guidelines in Leviticus are not suggestions but authoritative commands from God, meant to guide the Israelites in their worship and daily living.

to Moses
Moses is the chosen leader and prophet through whom God communicates His laws to the Israelites. His role as mediator is crucial, as he stands between God and the people, receiving divine instructions and conveying them to the nation. This highlights the importance of leadership and obedience in the community of faith. Moses' unique relationship with God serves as a model of faithfulness and dedication, reminding believers of the importance of listening to and following God's appointed leaders.

Say to the Israelites
This phrase establishes the audience and the authority of the message. The Israelites are the chosen people of God, and this directive is given through Moses, the mediator of the Old Covenant. The Hebrew word for "say" (אָמַר, 'amar) implies a command or instruction, emphasizing the importance of the message. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God provides laws to guide His people in holiness.

A woman who becomes pregnant
The Hebrew term for "pregnant" (הָרָה, harah) signifies conception and the beginning of life. This phrase acknowledges the divine gift of life and the role of women in God's creation plan. Pregnancy is seen as a blessing, and the laws surrounding childbirth highlight the sanctity and significance of bringing new life into the world.

and gives birth to a male child
The birth of a male child is specifically mentioned, reflecting the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, where lineage and inheritance were often traced through males. The Hebrew word for "male" (זָכָר, zakar) is used here, and it underscores the importance of family and continuity in Israelite society. This also foreshadows the coming of the Messiah, who would be born as a male child.

will be unclean for seven days
The concept of "unclean" (טָמֵא, tamei) in Hebrew is not about physical dirtiness but ritual impurity. The seven-day period mirrors the creation week, symbolizing a time of separation and reflection. This period allows the mother to rest and recover, acknowledging the physical and spiritual significance of childbirth. It also serves as a reminder of the fallen state of humanity and the need for purification.

as she is during the days of her menstrual impurity
This comparison to menstrual impurity (נִדָּה, niddah) highlights the cyclical nature of life and the laws of purity. Menstrual impurity was a regular part of a woman's life, and the comparison underscores the natural processes God designed. It also points to the need for spiritual cleansing and the hope of redemption, as these laws ultimately point to the holiness required to approach God.

And on the eighth day
The phrase "on the eighth day" is significant in both a historical and theological context. Biblically, the number eight often symbolizes new beginnings or a new order. In the Hebrew tradition, the eighth day marks a transition from the initial period of impurity and separation to a time of covenantal inclusion. Theologically, this can be seen as a foreshadowing of the new creation and resurrection, as Jesus rose on the first day of the week, which is also the eighth day in a continuous cycle. Historically, the practice of circumcision on the eighth day is unique to the Israelites, setting them apart from surrounding cultures and emphasizing their covenant relationship with God.

the flesh of his foreskin
The "flesh of his foreskin" refers to the physical act of circumcision, which is the removal of the foreskin from the male genitalia. In Hebrew, the word for foreskin is "orlah," which can also imply something that is uncultivated or unrefined. This act is not merely a physical procedure but carries deep spiritual significance. It symbolizes the cutting away of impurity and the dedication of the individual to God. In the broader scriptural context, circumcision is a sign of the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 17:10-14), representing a commitment to live according to God's laws and a physical mark of belonging to His chosen people.

shall be circumcised
The command "shall be circumcised" is an imperative, indicating the necessity and non-negotiable nature of this rite for the Israelites. The Hebrew verb used here is "mul," which means to cut or to circumcise. This command is not just a cultural or health-related practice but a divine ordinance that signifies the child's entry into the covenant community. It is a physical manifestation of a spiritual truth, that the people of Israel are set apart for God's purposes. In the New Testament, the concept of circumcision is expanded to include the circumcision of the heart (Romans 2:29), emphasizing inner spiritual transformation over mere external compliance. This highlights the continuity and fulfillment of the Old Testament law in the New Covenant through Christ.

The woman shall continue in purification
The Hebrew word for "purification" is "טָהֳרָה" (tahorah), which signifies a state of ceremonial cleanliness. In the ancient Israelite context, purification was not merely a physical process but a spiritual one, symbolizing a return to a state of holiness and readiness to engage with the sacred. This period of purification underscores the importance of approaching God with reverence and purity, reflecting the holiness that God requires of His people.

from her bleeding
The term "bleeding" here refers to the natural postpartum discharge following childbirth. In the Hebrew context, this was seen as a natural process that nonetheless rendered a woman ceremonially unclean. This reflects the broader biblical theme of life and blood, where blood is both a symbol of life and a substance that requires careful handling in the presence of the divine.

for thirty-three days
The specific duration of thirty-three days, when added to the initial seven days of impurity mentioned earlier in the chapter, totals forty days. The number forty is significant throughout Scripture, often symbolizing a period of testing, trial, or preparation (e.g., the forty days of rain during the flood, Israel's forty years in the wilderness, Jesus' forty days of fasting). This period allowed the mother time to recover physically and spiritually, preparing her to re-enter the community and participate in religious life.

She must not touch anything holy
The prohibition against touching anything holy emphasizes the sanctity of the sacred objects and spaces associated with worship. In the ancient Near Eastern context, holiness was a powerful and dangerous force, and approaching it in an impure state could bring severe consequences. This restriction highlights the separation between the sacred and the profane, a recurring theme in Leviticus, which calls the people to respect the boundaries set by God.

or go into the sanctuary
The sanctuary, or "מִקְדָּשׁ" (miqdash) in Hebrew, was the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. The restriction against entering the sanctuary during the purification period underscores the holiness of God's presence and the need for the worshiper to be in a state of ceremonial purity. This reflects the broader biblical principle that God is holy and those who approach Him must do so with reverence and purity.

until the days of her purification are complete
The completion of the purification period marks a transition back to normalcy and full participation in the religious life of the community. This completion signifies restoration and renewal, themes that resonate throughout Scripture as God continually calls His people to return to Him and be made whole. The process of purification, therefore, is not merely about exclusion but about preparation and eventual inclusion in the holy community.

But if she gives birth to a daughter
In the Hebrew text, the phrase "gives birth" is derived from the root word "yalad," which means to bear or bring forth. The birth of a daughter in ancient Israelite society was a significant event, as daughters were seen as future bearers of the covenant community. The distinction in the purification period between the birth of a son and a daughter may reflect cultural and theological understandings of gender roles and the continuation of the family line.

the woman will be unclean for two weeks
The term "unclean" comes from the Hebrew word "tamei," which signifies a state of ritual impurity. This period of uncleanness is double that of giving birth to a son, which was one week. The two-week period may symbolize a deeper reflection on the nature of life and the sacredness of creation, emphasizing the importance of purification and the restoration of ritual purity.

as she is during her menstruation
The comparison to menstruation, or "niddah" in Hebrew, highlights the natural and cyclical aspects of a woman's life. Menstruation was a time of separation and reflection, and this parallel underscores the continuity of life and the renewal of purity. It also reflects the understanding of the body as a vessel of life, which requires periods of rest and renewal.

Then she must continue in the blood of purification
The "blood of purification" refers to the extended period of cleansing that follows childbirth. The Hebrew word "taharah" for purification indicates a process of becoming clean or pure. This period allows the mother to recover physically and spiritually, preparing her to re-enter the community and participate fully in religious life.

for sixty-six days
The specific duration of sixty-six days, when combined with the initial two weeks, totals eighty days. This extended period may symbolize completeness and wholeness, as the number eight often represents new beginnings in biblical numerology. The time allows for a full cycle of renewal, emphasizing the sanctity of life and the importance of spiritual readiness.

When the days of her purification are complete
This phrase refers to the period after childbirth during which a woman was considered ceremonially unclean according to the Mosaic Law. The Hebrew word for "purification" is "טָהֳרָה" (tahorah), which signifies a process of becoming clean or pure. This period was 40 days for a son and 80 days for a daughter, reflecting the cultural and religious practices of ancient Israel. The completion of these days marked a transition from impurity to a state of ritual cleanliness, allowing the woman to re-enter the community's religious life.

whether for a son or a daughter
This phrase indicates that the law applied equally regardless of the child's gender, though the duration of purification differed. The equal requirement for offerings underscores the intrinsic value of both male and female children in the eyes of God, despite the cultural norms of the time that often favored sons. This reflects the biblical principle that all life is sacred and valued by God.

she is to bring to the priest
The act of bringing offerings to the priest highlights the mediatory role of the priesthood in ancient Israel. The Hebrew word for "priest" is "כֹּהֵן" (kohen), which denotes one who serves as an intermediary between God and the people. This practice underscores the importance of approaching God through the means He has established, a principle that finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament through Jesus Christ, our High Priest.

at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, or "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (Ohel Moed) in Hebrew, was the designated place where God met with Moses and the Israelites. Bringing offerings to this location signifies the importance of approaching God in the manner He prescribed. It was a sacred space that symbolized God's presence among His people, reminding them of His holiness and their need for atonement.

a year-old lamb for a burnt offering
The "year-old lamb" represents innocence and purity, qualities that are essential for a burnt offering, which is "עֹלָה" (olah) in Hebrew. This offering was entirely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication and surrender to God. The lamb prefigures Christ, the Lamb of God, who was wholly dedicated to the Father's will and offered Himself as a perfect sacrifice for sin.

and a young pigeon or a turtledove for a sin offering
The provision of a "young pigeon or a turtledove" for a sin offering, or "חַטָּאת" (chatat) in Hebrew, reflects God's grace and accommodation for those who could not afford a lamb. This offering was for atonement, acknowledging human sinfulness and the need for divine forgiveness. It points to the accessibility of God's grace to all, regardless of social or economic status, and foreshadows the ultimate atonement through Christ's sacrifice.

Then he shall present it before the LORD
The phrase "Then he shall present it before the LORD" refers to the priest's role in the sacrificial system. The Hebrew word for "present" is "qarab," which means to bring near or to offer. This act of presenting the offering signifies the approach to God, acknowledging His holiness and the need for mediation. In the ancient Israelite context, the priest acted as an intermediary, highlighting the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. This foreshadows the ultimate mediation of Christ, who brings believers directly into God's presence.

to make atonement for her
The concept of "atonement" is central to the sacrificial system. The Hebrew word "kaphar" means to cover or to make reconciliation. Atonement involves the covering of sin, allowing for reconciliation between the individual and God. This reflects the gravity of sin and the necessity of a sacrificial substitute. In the New Testament, this is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice provides the ultimate atonement for sin, reconciling humanity to God once and for all.

and she will be cleansed from her flow of blood
The phrase "and she will be cleansed from her flow of blood" addresses the ritual impurity associated with childbirth. The Hebrew word for "cleansed" is "taher," meaning to be pure or clean. In the ancient context, blood was a powerful symbol of life and death, and its flow rendered a person ritually unclean. The cleansing process allowed the woman to re-enter the community and participate in worship. This underscores the importance of purity and holiness in approaching God, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture.

This is the law for a woman giving birth
"This is the law for a woman giving birth" establishes the divine ordinance regarding childbirth. The Hebrew word for "law" is "torah," which means instruction or teaching. This law underscores God's concern for order and purity within the community. It also reflects the sanctity of life and the recognition of God's sovereignty over creation. The law serves as a reminder of the need for holiness and the provision of God's grace in the midst of life's natural processes.

whether to a male or to a female
The phrase "whether to a male or to a female" indicates the inclusivity of the law, applying equally to the birth of a son or a daughter. This highlights the equal value of both genders in God's eyes, a principle that is consistent throughout Scripture. In a historical context where male offspring were often more highly valued, this law affirms the inherent worth and dignity of all human life, reflecting the image of God in every person.

But if she cannot afford a lamb
This phrase acknowledges the economic realities of the Israelites, showing God's understanding and compassion for those in financial hardship. The Hebrew word for "afford" (תַּשִּׂיג, tashig) implies reaching or attaining, indicating that the law made provisions for those who could not reach the standard offering. This reflects God's justice and mercy, ensuring that all could participate in the sacrificial system regardless of their economic status.

she may bring two turtledoves or two young pigeons
The provision of "two turtledoves or two young pigeons" as an alternative offering highlights the accessibility of worship and atonement for all people. Turtledoves and pigeons were more affordable and readily available, symbolizing God's inclusivity. Historically, these birds were common in the region, making them a practical option for those who could not afford a lamb. This provision underscores the principle that God values the heart's intent over the material value of the offering.

one for a burnt offering and the other for a sin offering
The distinction between a "burnt offering" and a "sin offering" is significant. The burnt offering (עֹלָה, olah) represents complete surrender and dedication to God, as it was wholly consumed by fire. The sin offering (חַטָּאת, chatat) was for atonement of specific sins, emphasizing purification and reconciliation with God. Together, these offerings illustrate the comprehensive nature of atonement, addressing both the need for personal dedication and the cleansing of sin.

In this way the priest will make atonement for her
The role of the priest in making "atonement" (כִּפֶּר, kipper) is central to the sacrificial system. The Hebrew root of atonement implies covering or reconciliation, pointing to the priest's mediating role between the individual and God. This foreshadows the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ, the High Priest, who reconciles humanity to God through His sacrifice.

and she will be clean
The concept of being "clean" (טָהֵר, taher) in Levitical law is both physical and spiritual. It signifies a state of purity and readiness to participate in communal and religious life. This cleanliness is not just ritualistic but also symbolic of inner purification and holiness. The process of becoming clean through prescribed offerings reflects the transformative power of obedience to God's commands and the grace extended to believers.