Leviticus 15:29

On the eighth day she is to take two turtledoves or two young pigeons and bring them to the priest at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting.

Study Bible

On the eighth day
The phrase "on the eighth day" signifies a period of completion and new beginnings in biblical numerology. The number eight often represents a new order or creation, as seen in the resurrection of Jesus, which occurred on the first day of the week, the day after the Sabbath, symbolically the eighth day. In the context of Leviticus, this day marks the end of a purification process, allowing the individual to re-enter the community and worship life of Israel.

she must take
The requirement that "she must take" emphasizes personal responsibility and active participation in the purification process. This action underscores the importance of individual accountability in maintaining holiness and purity before God. It reflects the broader biblical principle that while God provides the means for purification, individuals must respond in obedience.

two turtledoves or two young pigeons
The offering of "two turtledoves or two young pigeons" highlights God's provision for all economic classes within Israel. These birds were more affordable than larger animals, ensuring that even the poor could fulfill the requirements of the law. This provision reflects God's justice and mercy, ensuring that all His people could maintain a right relationship with Him, regardless of their financial status.

and bring them to the priest
The act of bringing the offerings "to the priest" signifies the mediatory role of the priesthood in the Old Testament. Priests acted as intermediaries between God and the people, facilitating the process of atonement and purification. This foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who mediates the new covenant and provides direct access to God for believers.

at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
The "entrance to the Tent of Meeting" was a sacred space where God met with His people. It was a place of divine encounter and revelation. Bringing offerings to this location underscores the importance of approaching God with reverence and the understanding that purification and atonement are necessary to enter His presence. This reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness and the need for cleansing before approaching a holy God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Woman
The verse refers to a woman who has been cleansed from her discharge, as described in the preceding verses. This is part of the purification process required by the Law of Moses.

2. The Priest
The priest acts as the mediator between the woman and God, performing the necessary rituals to complete her purification.

3. The Tent of Meeting
This is the sacred place where God met with Moses and the Israelites, and where the priest performs the purification rituals.

4. Turtledoves or Young Pigeons
These birds are the offerings required for the woman's purification, symbolizing atonement and reconciliation with God.

5. The Eighth Day
This day marks the completion of the woman's purification process, signifying a new beginning and restoration to the community.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Purity
The detailed laws in Leviticus highlight God's holiness and the need for His people to be pure. This calls us to examine our own lives and seek spiritual purity through Christ.

Role of Sacrifice
The sacrifices in Leviticus point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus. Understanding these rituals helps us appreciate the depth of Christ's atonement.

Community Restoration
The purification process allowed individuals to be restored to the community, reminding us of the importance of reconciliation and unity within the body of Christ.

Obedience to God's Commands
The woman's adherence to the purification laws demonstrates obedience, which is a key aspect of our faith journey.

Symbolism of the Eighth Day
The eighth day symbolizes new beginnings, encouraging us to embrace the new life we have in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the purification process in Leviticus 15:29 reflect the holiness of God, and how can we apply this understanding to our daily lives?

2. In what ways do the sacrifices in Leviticus foreshadow the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and how does this deepen our appreciation for His atonement?

3. How does the concept of community restoration in Leviticus 15:29 apply to our relationships within the church today?

4. What can we learn from the obedience of the woman in Leviticus 15:29, and how can we demonstrate similar obedience in our walk with God?

5. How does the symbolism of the eighth day as a new beginning encourage us in our spiritual journey, and what steps can we take to embrace new beginnings in Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 12:6-8
Similar purification rituals are described for a woman after childbirth, emphasizing the importance of ritual cleanliness and atonement.

Luke 2:22-24
Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the temple and offer sacrifices as prescribed in the Law, showing their obedience and the continuity of these practices into the New Testament.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Discusses how the blood of Christ purifies us, drawing a parallel to the purification rituals in Leviticus, but highlighting the superiority of Christ's sacrifice.