Leviticus 14:28

The priest shall also put some of the oil in his palm on the right earlobe of the one to be cleansed, on the thumb of his right hand, and on the big toe of his right foot--on the same places as the blood of the guilt offering.

Study Bible

The priest shall also put some of the oil in his hand
In the ancient Hebrew context, the role of the priest was central to the spiritual and communal life of Israel. The priest acted as a mediator between God and the people, and his actions were symbolic of divine intervention and blessing. The oil, often a symbol of the Holy Spirit, represents anointing and consecration. The act of placing oil in his hand signifies preparation and readiness to impart God's grace and healing.

on the lobe of the right ear of the one to be cleansed
The right ear lobe symbolizes the ability to hear and obey God's word. In Hebrew culture, the right side often represented strength and favor. By anointing the ear, the priest symbolically dedicates the person's hearing to God, ensuring that they are attentive to His commandments and guidance. This act signifies a renewal of the individual's commitment to listen to and follow God's will.

on the thumb of his right hand
The thumb is essential for grasping and holding, symbolizing action and work. Anointing the right thumb signifies the consecration of the person's actions and deeds to God. It is a call to engage in righteous and holy work, serving God and others with integrity and purpose. This act reminds the cleansed individual that their hands are to be instruments of God's love and service.

and on the big toe of his right foot
The big toe is crucial for balance and movement, representing the person's walk and journey in life. Anointing the right big toe signifies the dedication of one's path to God. It is a reminder to walk in righteousness and to follow the path that God has set. This act symbolizes a commitment to live a life that is pleasing to God, walking in His ways and avoiding the paths of sin.

on the blood of the guilt offering
The guilt offering, or "asham" in Hebrew, was a sacrifice made for atonement of unintentional sins or sins requiring restitution. The presence of blood signifies purification and forgiveness. By placing the oil on the blood, the priest emphasizes the completeness of the cleansing process. It highlights the necessity of both atonement (through the blood) and consecration (through the oil) for the individual to be fully restored to the community and to God. This act underscores the profound truth that forgiveness and sanctification are both essential aspects of the believer's relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The One to be Cleansed
An individual who has been healed from a skin disease, seeking ritual purification to re-enter the community.

3. The Right Ear, Thumb, and Big Toe
Specific body parts symbolically anointed to signify complete cleansing and dedication to God.

4. The Guilt Offering
A sacrificial offering made to atone for sin and restore the individual to a state of ritual purity.

5. The Oil and Blood
Elements used in the ritual, symbolizing the Holy Spirit (oil) and atonement (blood).

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Anointing
The anointing of the ear, thumb, and toe represents the need for our hearing, actions, and walk to be consecrated to God. This calls us to live lives that are attentive to God's voice, active in His service, and walking in His ways.

Holistic Cleansing
The ritual emphasizes that cleansing and dedication to God involve the whole person. In our spiritual lives, we must seek comprehensive purity and dedication, not just in isolated areas.

Role of the Priest
The priest's role as a mediator foreshadows Christ's ultimate priesthood. Just as the priest facilitated cleansing, Jesus facilitates our spiritual cleansing and reconciliation with God.

Importance of Rituals
While the specific rituals of Leviticus are not practiced today, they remind us of the importance of intentional acts of worship and dedication in our spiritual lives.

Integration of Blood and Oil
The combination of blood and oil in the ritual signifies the necessity of both atonement and the Holy Spirit's work in our lives. We are called to embrace both forgiveness through Christ's sacrifice and empowerment through the Spirit.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the anointing of the ear, thumb, and toe in Leviticus 14:28 relate to our daily walk with God today?

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

3. How can we apply the concept of holistic cleansing in our spiritual lives, ensuring that all aspects are dedicated to God?

4. What are some modern "rituals" or practices that can help us maintain a sense of spiritual purity and dedication?

5. How do the elements of blood and oil in the cleansing ritual reflect the dual aspects of atonement and empowerment in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29:20
The consecration of Aaron and his sons, where blood is applied to the same parts of the body, signifying dedication to God's service.

Isaiah 61:1
The anointing of the Spirit, which parallels the use of oil in consecration and healing.

Hebrews 9:22
The necessity of blood for purification, connecting the Old Testament rituals to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

1 John 1:7
The cleansing power of Jesus' blood, which purifies us from all sin, reflecting the symbolism in Leviticus.