Leviticus 15:32

This is the law of him who has a discharge, of the man who has an emission of semen whereby he is unclean,

Study Bible

This is the law
The phrase "This is the law" underscores the divine authority and orderliness inherent in the Levitical code. The Hebrew word for "law" is "torah," which signifies instruction or teaching. In the context of Leviticus, it reflects God's desire to instruct His people in holiness and purity. The law serves as a guide for maintaining ritual cleanliness, which is essential for worship and community life in ancient Israel. It is a reminder of God's holiness and the need for His people to be set apart.

of him who has a discharge
The term "discharge" refers to any abnormal bodily emission, which in the ancient context could include a variety of medical conditions. The Hebrew word used here is "zav," which indicates a flow or issue. This condition rendered a person ceremonially unclean, impacting their ability to participate in communal worship. The emphasis on physical cleanliness reflects a deeper spiritual truth about the need for purity before God. It also highlights the compassionate provision of God in addressing health and hygiene in a time when medical knowledge was limited.

and of the man who has an emission of semen
This phrase addresses a specific natural bodily function, which, while not sinful, still rendered a man temporarily unclean. The Hebrew word for "emission" is "shikhvat," meaning a flow or release. This regulation underscores the sanctity of the human body and the importance of sexual purity. It also serves as a reminder of the need for self-control and the proper context for sexual relations within marriage. The temporary uncleanness required ritual washing, symbolizing the renewal and cleansing necessary to approach God.

whereby he is unclean
The concept of being "unclean" in Levitical terms is not synonymous with sinfulness but rather indicates a state of ritual impurity. The Hebrew word "tame" is used here, which means impure or defiled. This state required specific actions to restore cleanliness, such as washing and waiting until evening. The laws of cleanliness served to teach the Israelites about the holiness of God and the separation required from anything that defiles. It also pointed forward to the ultimate cleansing from sin provided through Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law and made a way for believers to be eternally clean before God.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The recipients of the laws, who were to follow these instructions to maintain ritual purity.

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

4. Priests
The mediators between God and the Israelites, responsible for teaching and enforcing these laws.

5. God
The divine lawgiver who established these purity laws to set His people apart.

Teaching Points

Understanding Ritual Purity
The laws in Leviticus 15:32 emphasize the importance of ritual purity in the Old Testament, which served as a symbol of spiritual cleanliness and separation from sin.

Holiness and Separation
These laws remind us of God's holiness and the need for His people to be distinct from the surrounding nations. They call us to live lives that reflect God's character.

The Role of the Law
The law served as a tutor to lead us to Christ, highlighting our need for a Savior who can cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Physical and Spiritual Health
While the specific laws of Leviticus are not binding on Christians today, they encourage us to consider how we can honor God with our bodies and maintain both physical and spiritual health.

Community and Accountability
The communal aspect of these laws underscores the importance of accountability and support within the body of Christ as we pursue holiness together.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the purity laws in Leviticus 15:32 reflect the holiness of God, and how can we apply this understanding to our lives today?

2. In what ways do the New Testament teachings on purity and holiness build upon the foundation laid in Leviticus 15:32?

3. How can we, as a Christian community, support one another in maintaining both physical and spiritual purity?

4. What are some practical ways we can honor God with our bodies, as encouraged in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20?

5. How does the account of the woman with the issue of blood in Mark 5:25-34 illustrate the social and spiritual implications of ritual impurity, and what can we learn from Jesus' response to her?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11-15
These chapters provide a broader context of purity laws, including dietary restrictions and laws concerning skin diseases.

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

Hebrews 9:13-14
Discusses the limitations of the old covenant's purification rituals and the superior cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Emphasizes the importance of honoring God with our bodies, connecting physical purity with spiritual holiness.