Leviticus 15:19

When a woman has a discharge consisting of blood from her body, she will be unclean due to her menstruation for seven days, and anyone who touches her will be unclean until evening.

Study Bible

When a woman has a discharge
The Hebrew word for "discharge" is "זָב" (zav), which refers to a flow or issue. In the context of Leviticus, it specifically pertains to bodily discharges that render a person ceremonially unclean. This reflects the ancient Israelite understanding of purity and impurity, which was not merely about physical cleanliness but also about spiritual and communal holiness. The discharge here is a natural bodily function, yet it is significant in the context of the covenant community's relationship with God.

and the discharge from her body is blood
The mention of "blood" (דָּם, dam) is crucial as blood is a significant symbol throughout the Bible, often representing life (Leviticus 17:11). In this context, the menstrual blood is a natural part of a woman's cycle, yet it is treated with particular attention in the Levitical law. This reflects the broader biblical theme of blood as both a source of life and a potential source of impurity, necessitating specific rituals for purification.

she shall be in her menstrual impurity
The term "menstrual impurity" (נִדָּה, niddah) refers to the state of ritual impurity associated with menstruation. This concept is deeply rooted in the holiness code of Leviticus, which emphasizes the separation between the holy and the common, the clean and the unclean. The state of niddah is not a moral judgment but a ritual status that requires specific observances to maintain the sanctity of the community and its worship practices.

for seven days
The period of "seven days" is significant in biblical numerology, often symbolizing completeness or perfection. This time frame for menstrual impurity underscores the completeness of the purification process. It also reflects the rhythm of creation and rest established in Genesis, where the seventh day is a day of rest and holiness. The seven-day period allows for a full cycle of separation and reintegration into the community.

and anyone who touches her
The act of "touching" (נָגַע, naga) in the Hebrew context often implies more than physical contact; it can denote association or influence. In the purity laws, touching someone in a state of impurity transfers that impurity, necessitating purification. This underscores the communal nature of holiness in Israel, where individual states of impurity could affect the entire community's ability to worship and maintain covenantal purity.

will be unclean until evening
The phrase "unclean until evening" indicates a temporary state of impurity that is resolved with the setting of the sun. Evening marks the beginning of a new day in the Hebrew calendar, symbolizing renewal and the opportunity for restoration. This reflects the merciful aspect of the law, where impurity is not permanent but can be cleansed, allowing individuals to rejoin the community and participate fully in its religious life. The evening purification also points to the hope of new beginnings and the continual cycle of redemption and restoration in the life of God's people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The people to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, forming the community of God's chosen people.

3. Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where purity laws were especially significant.

4. Menstrual Impurity
A state of ritual impurity associated with a woman's menstrual cycle, as described in the law.

5. Priests
The religious leaders responsible for teaching and enforcing the laws of purity among the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Understanding Ritual Purity
The laws of Leviticus highlight the importance of holiness and separation from impurity, teaching us about God's standards.

Symbolism of Blood
Blood, often associated with life and covenant, also represents impurity in certain contexts, pointing to the need for atonement.

Community and Contamination
The laws emphasize the impact of individual impurity on the community, reminding us of our interconnectedness and responsibility to one another.

Christ's Fulfillment of the Law
Jesus' life and sacrifice fulfill the purity laws, offering us a deeper understanding of spiritual cleanliness.

Practical Holiness
While the specific laws may not apply today, the principle of living a life set apart for God remains relevant.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of ritual impurity in Leviticus 15:19 help us understand the holiness of God?

2. In what ways does the account of the woman with the issue of blood in Mark 5 relate to the laws in Leviticus 15:19?

3. How can we apply the principles of purity and holiness in our daily lives, even though we are not bound by Old Testament purity laws?

4. What does Hebrews 9:13-14 teach us about the difference between Old Testament purification and the cleansing offered by Christ?

5. How can understanding the communal aspect of impurity in Leviticus help us in fostering a healthy and holy community today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 12
Discusses purification after childbirth, showing the broader context of purity laws related to bodily discharges.

Mark 5:25-34
The account of the woman with the issue of blood, illustrating the social and religious implications of impurity.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Explains how Christ's sacrifice purifies us, contrasting with the temporary purification of the Old Testament laws.

Isaiah 64:6
Highlights human impurity and the need for divine cleansing, relevant to understanding the spiritual symbolism of purity laws.

1 John 1:7
Speaks of the cleansing power of Jesus' blood, offering a New Testament perspective on purity.