Leviticus 14:4

the priest shall order that two live clean birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop be brought for the one to be cleansed.

Study Bible

the priest shall order
The role of the priest in ancient Israel was not only spiritual but also judicial and medical. The Hebrew word for priest, "kohen," signifies one who mediates between God and man. In this context, the priest acts under divine authority to initiate the cleansing process, symbolizing God's power to purify and restore.

two live clean birds
Birds, often seen as symbols of freedom and transcendence, are used here in a ritual context. The specification of "clean" birds aligns with the dietary laws in Leviticus, emphasizing purity. The Hebrew word for "clean" is "tahor," which denotes ritual purity, essential for approaching God.

cedar wood
Cedar wood, known for its durability and pleasant aroma, was highly valued in ancient times. It symbolizes strength and longevity. The use of cedar in the cleansing ritual may represent the enduring nature of God's covenant and the strength of His purifying power.

scarlet yarn
Scarlet, a vivid red color, is often associated with sin and atonement in the Bible. The Hebrew word "tola'at" refers to the crimson worm, from which the dye was derived. This imagery points to the sacrificial system and the shedding of blood for the remission of sins, foreshadowing Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

hyssop
Hyssop, a plant used for sprinkling in purification rites, is mentioned in several biblical contexts, including the Passover (Exodus 12:22) and David's plea for cleansing (Psalm 51:7). The Hebrew word "ezov" signifies purification and cleansing, symbolizing the removal of sin and impurity.

be brought for the one to be cleansed
The act of bringing these items signifies preparation and intention for purification. The Hebrew concept of "bringing" or "coming near" (qarab) is often used in the context of offerings and worship, indicating a movement towards holiness and reconciliation with God. This phrase underscores the communal and participatory nature of the cleansing process, involving both the individual and the community in the restoration to purity and fellowship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
The priest acts as a mediator between God and the people, performing rituals for cleansing and atonement.

2. The Cleansed Person
This refers to the individual who has been healed of a skin disease, often translated as leprosy, and is undergoing the purification process.

3. Two Live Clean Birds
These birds are part of the ritual for purification, symbolizing life and freedom.

4. Cedar Wood
Known for its durability and fragrance, cedar wood is used in the purification process, symbolizing strength and purification.

5. Scarlet Yarn
This represents the color of blood, often associated with sacrifice and atonement.

6. Hyssop
A plant used for sprinkling in purification rites, symbolizing cleansing and purification.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Cleansing
The elements used in Leviticus 14:4 symbolize different aspects of spiritual cleansing. Cedar wood represents strength and endurance, scarlet yarn signifies sacrifice, and hyssop denotes purification. These elements point to the comprehensive nature of God's cleansing.

Role of the Priest
The priest's role as a mediator highlights the importance of intercession and the need for a mediator between God and humanity. This foreshadows the ultimate mediation of Christ.

Spiritual Cleansing
Just as the physical cleansing was necessary for the healed leper, spiritual cleansing is essential for believers. This involves repentance and seeking God's forgiveness through Christ.

Community Restoration
The cleansing process allowed the healed person to be restored to the community, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation and restoration in the body of Christ.

Foreshadowing Christ's Sacrifice
The ritual elements and the process of cleansing foreshadow the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who provides complete and eternal cleansing from sin.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 14:4 reflect the role of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. In what ways do the elements used in the cleansing ritual (birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, hyssop) point to the work of Christ?

3. How can we apply the concept of spiritual cleansing in our daily walk with God?

4. What does the restoration of the cleansed person to the community teach us about forgiveness and reconciliation?

5. How do the purification rituals in Leviticus enhance our understanding of the sacrifice of Jesus as described in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 51
David's plea for cleansing uses hyssop as a metaphor for purification, connecting to the cleansing rituals in Leviticus.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the purification rites and how they foreshadow the ultimate cleansing through Christ's sacrifice.

John 19
The use of hyssop at the crucifixion of Jesus connects to its symbolic use in purification and sacrifice.