Leviticus 15:3

This uncleanness is from his discharge, whether his body allows the discharge to flow or blocks it. So his discharge will bring about uncleanness.

Study Bible

This discharge
The Hebrew word for "discharge" is "זָב" (zav), which refers to a bodily fluid that is emitted due to some form of ailment or condition. In the ancient context, such discharges were often seen as a sign of impurity, not just physically but spiritually. The discharge represents a breach in the wholeness that God desires for His people, symbolizing the brokenness of humanity and the need for divine intervention and healing.

will make him unclean
The concept of "unclean" in Hebrew is "טָמֵא" (tamei), which denotes a state of ritual impurity. This is not merely about physical cleanliness but about being in a state that is not suitable for worship or participation in the community's religious life. In the conservative Christian perspective, this highlights the holiness of God and the need for purity in approaching Him. It serves as a reminder of the separation sin causes between humanity and God, pointing to the need for atonement and purification.

whether it continues to flow
The phrase indicates an ongoing condition, suggesting a chronic issue rather than a temporary one. This can be seen as a metaphor for persistent sin or spiritual struggles that require ongoing attention and repentance. The continuous nature of the discharge emphasizes the need for vigilance in maintaining spiritual purity and the importance of seeking God's grace continually.

or is blocked
The term "blocked" suggests an interruption or cessation of the flow, which can symbolize a temporary reprieve or healing. However, the person remains unclean until proper purification rituals are performed. This reflects the idea that even when sin seems to be under control, it still requires the cleansing power of God to be truly resolved. It underscores the necessity of Jesus' sacrificial atonement for true spiritual cleansing.

it will make him unclean
Reiterating the state of uncleanness, this phrase emphasizes the seriousness of the condition. In the historical context, being unclean affected one's ability to participate in community and worship, highlighting the communal aspect of faith and the impact of individual sin on the broader body of believers. It serves as a call to personal holiness and the pursuit of righteousness through Christ, who cleanses us from all unrighteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The recipients of the Levitical laws, who were called to live in a covenant relationship with God, marked by holiness and purity.

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

Teaching Points

Understanding Ceremonial Uncleanness
The laws in Leviticus 15:3 highlight the importance of ceremonial purity in maintaining a relationship with God. They remind us of the holiness required to approach God.

Symbolism of Purity
The physical laws of cleanliness symbolize the spiritual purity God desires. They point to the need for inner cleansing, which is fulfilled in Christ.

Community and Worship
The laws affected not just the individual but the community's ability to worship. This teaches us the importance of personal holiness in the context of communal worship.

Christ's Fulfillment of the Law
Jesus' ministry often involved healing and cleansing, demonstrating His authority over ceremonial laws and pointing to the deeper spiritual cleansing He provides.

Practical Holiness
While the specific laws of Leviticus are not binding on Christians, they call us to consider how we live lives set apart for God in our daily actions and interactions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the laws of cleanliness in Leviticus 15:3 reflect the holiness of God, and how can we apply this understanding to our lives today?

2. In what ways does the account of the woman with the issue of blood in Mark 5:25-34 illustrate the social and spiritual implications of being unclean?

3. How does Hebrews 10:22 encourage us to approach God with confidence, and what does this mean for our understanding of purity and worship?

4. What are some practical ways we can pursue holiness in our daily lives, considering the principles found in Leviticus 15:3?

5. How does understanding the original Hebrew context of Leviticus 15:3 enhance our appreciation for the cleansing work of Christ in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11-15
These chapters provide a broader context for understanding the laws of cleanliness, including dietary laws, skin diseases, and bodily discharges.

Mark 5:25-34
The account of the woman with the issue of blood highlights the social and religious implications of being ceremonially unclean.

Hebrews 10:22
This verse speaks to the spiritual cleansing available through Christ, contrasting the temporary ceremonial cleansing of the Old Testament.