Leviticus 15:24

If a man lies with her and her menstrual flow touches him, he will be unclean for seven days, and any bed on which he lies will become unclean.

Study Bible

If a man lies with her
This phrase refers to the act of sexual intercourse. In the Hebrew context, the word "lies" (שָׁכַב, shakab) is often used to denote a physical and intimate union. The act itself is not condemned, but rather the timing and conditions under which it occurs. In ancient Israel, sexual relations were seen as a sacred act, and the laws surrounding them were designed to maintain ritual purity and holiness among the people.

and her menstrual flow touches him
The term "menstrual flow" (נִדָּה, niddah) refers to the natural and regular discharge that occurs in women. In the ancient Near Eastern context, menstruation was often associated with impurity, not as a moral failing, but as a state of ritual uncleanness. This perspective was common in many ancient cultures, where blood was seen as both life-giving and potentially defiling. The touching of the flow signifies a direct contact with this state of impurity.

he will be unclean for seven days
The period of seven days is significant in biblical terms, often representing completeness or a full cycle. The Hebrew word for "unclean" (טָמֵא, tamei) indicates a state of ritual impurity, which required a period of separation and purification. This was not a moral judgment but a ceremonial one, emphasizing the need for holiness and the separation from anything that could defile the community's worship and relationship with God.

and every bed on which he lies will be unclean
The bed, as a place of rest and intimacy, becomes unclean by association. This reflects the holistic nature of purity laws, where not only the individuals but also their environment is affected by states of impurity. The concept of uncleanness extending to objects and spaces underscores the pervasive nature of ritual purity in the daily lives of the Israelites. It served as a constant reminder of the need for cleanliness and the sanctity of the community's relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The recipients of the Levitical laws, called to be a holy nation set apart for God.

3. Menstruating Woman
The subject of the law, whose natural bodily function is addressed in terms of ritual purity.

4. Man
The individual who becomes unclean through contact with a menstruating woman.

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

Teaching Points

Understanding Ritual Purity
The laws in Leviticus highlight the importance of ritual purity in maintaining a relationship with a holy God. They remind us of the need for spiritual cleanliness in our lives.

Respect for God's Design
The natural processes of the body, such as menstruation, are part of God's creation. These laws teach respect for God's design and the need to approach Him with reverence.

Symbolism of Cleansing
The period of uncleanness and subsequent cleansing symbolize the need for spiritual renewal and the cleansing power of Christ in the New Covenant.

Holiness in Relationships
The laws encourage us to consider how our relationships and actions can affect our spiritual state and our community's holiness.

Christ's Fulfillment of the Law
While these laws were specific to the Israelites, they point to the ultimate cleansing and fulfillment found in Jesus Christ, who makes us clean through His sacrifice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the concept of ritual purity in Leviticus 15:24 help us appreciate the holiness of God?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of respect and reverence for God's design in our daily lives?

3. How does the New Testament teaching on purity and cleansing through Christ change our perspective on Old Testament laws like those in Leviticus 15?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure our relationships honor God and maintain spiritual purity?

5. How can the account of the woman with the issue of blood in Mark 5 inspire us to seek Jesus for spiritual cleansing and healing?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 18:19
This verse also addresses the prohibition of sexual relations during a woman's menstrual period, emphasizing the importance of ritual purity.

Ezekiel 18:6
This passage reiterates the importance of avoiding impurity, including during a woman's menstrual cycle, as part of living a righteous life.

Mark 5:25-34
The account of the woman with the issue of blood highlights Jesus' power over impurity and His compassion, offering a New Testament perspective on ritual cleanliness.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Discusses the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice, which surpasses the ritual purifications of the Old Testament.