Leviticus 14:18

The rest of the oil in his palm, the priest is to put on the head of the one to be cleansed, to make atonement for him before the LORD.

Study Bible

The rest of the oil
In the Hebrew text, the word for "oil" is "שֶׁמֶן" (shemen), which is often associated with anointing and consecration. Oil in the ancient Near Eastern context was a symbol of richness, healing, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. The "rest of the oil" signifies the abundance of God's provision and the overflow of His grace. It is a reminder that God's blessings are not just sufficient but abundant, overflowing into every aspect of life.

in his palm
The Hebrew word for "palm" is "כַּף" (kaph), which can also mean "hand" or "hollow." The palm is a symbol of service and action. In biblical times, the palm was used to hold and offer gifts, symbolizing the priest's role as a mediator between God and man. The act of holding the oil in the palm signifies readiness to serve and the priest's dedication to fulfilling God's commands.

the priest shall put
The Hebrew verb "נָתַן" (natan) means "to give" or "to place." The priest's action of placing the oil is deliberate and intentional, symbolizing the transfer of God's grace and favor. This act is not just a ritual but a divine appointment, where the priest acts as God's representative, imparting His blessings and sanctification upon the individual.

on the head
The head, or "רֹאשׁ" (rosh) in Hebrew, is often seen as the seat of wisdom and authority. Anointing the head signifies a covering of God's protection and the bestowal of honor and dignity. It is a powerful image of God's sovereignty over the individual, marking them as set apart for His purposes.

of the one to be cleansed
The phrase "to be cleansed" comes from the Hebrew "טָהֵר" (taher), meaning "to be pure" or "to be clean." This cleansing is both physical and spiritual, representing the removal of impurity and sin. It is a profound reminder of God's desire for His people to be holy and set apart, reflecting His own holiness.

In this way the priest will make atonement
The concept of "atonement" is captured in the Hebrew word "כָּפַר" (kaphar), meaning "to cover" or "to reconcile." Atonement is central to the sacrificial system, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ. The priest's role in making atonement foreshadows the work of Jesus, our High Priest, who reconciles us to God through His sacrifice.

for him before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" emphasizes the presence of God in the ritual. The Hebrew "לִפְנֵי יְהוָה" (lifnei Yahweh) indicates that the act of atonement is done in the sight of God, underscoring His omnipresence and the importance of living a life that is pleasing to Him. It is a call to live with an awareness of God's constant presence and to seek His approval above all else.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
A mediator between God and the people, responsible for performing the cleansing rituals and making atonement.

2. The One to be Cleansed
An individual who has been afflicted with a skin disease (often translated as leprosy) and is undergoing the purification process.

3. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who provides the means for atonement and restoration.

4. The Oil
Symbolic of the Holy Spirit and anointing, used in the ritual to signify purification and consecration.

5. The Tabernacle
The place where the rituals are performed, representing God's presence among His people.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest acts as a mediator, pointing to Christ as our ultimate High Priest who intercedes for us.

Symbolism of Oil
Oil represents the Holy Spirit's work in cleansing, healing, and consecrating believers for God's service.

Atonement and Restoration
The ritual underscores the need for atonement and the restoration of fellowship with God, fulfilled in Christ.

Holiness and Purity
The cleansing process highlights God's call for His people to be holy and pure, set apart for His purposes.

Community and Worship
The restoration of the cleansed individual to the community and worship life of Israel reflects the importance of communal faith and worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 14:18 foreshadow the work of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. In what ways does the use of oil in the cleansing ritual relate to the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer today?

3. How can understanding the concept of atonement in Leviticus 14:18 deepen our appreciation for Christ's sacrifice?

4. What practical steps can we take to pursue holiness and purity in our daily lives, as reflected in the cleansing rituals of Leviticus?

5. How does the restoration of the cleansed individual to the community challenge us to foster inclusive and supportive faith communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 8:12
The anointing of Aaron and his sons with oil, signifying their consecration as priests, parallels the use of oil in the cleansing ritual.

James 5:14-15
The anointing with oil in the New Testament for healing and prayer, showing continuity in the use of oil as a symbol of God's presence and power.

Isaiah 61:1
The anointing of the Messiah with the Spirit, highlighting the role of anointing in setting apart and empowering for God's purposes.

Hebrews 9:13-14
The comparison of Old Testament rituals with the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice, emphasizing the ultimate atonement through Jesus.

1 John 2:20, 27
The anointing of believers with the Holy Spirit, connecting the Old Testament practice to the New Testament reality of spiritual cleansing and empowerment.