Leviticus 15:7

Whoever touches the body of the man with a discharge must wash his clothes and bathe with water, and he will be unclean until evening.

Study Bible

Whoever touches
This phrase emphasizes the communal and relational aspect of purity laws in ancient Israel. The Hebrew root for "touches" is "נָגַע" (naga), which implies not just a casual contact but an intentional or significant interaction. In the cultural and historical context of the Israelites, physical touch was a common part of daily life, and thus, the laws served as a constant reminder of the need for holiness and separation from impurity. This reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness, where God calls His people to be set apart.

the man with the discharge
The "man with the discharge" refers to an individual experiencing a bodily emission, which in the context of Leviticus, is considered a source of ritual impurity. The Hebrew term for "discharge" is "זָב" (zav), which can refer to various types of bodily emissions. Historically, these laws were not only about physical health but also about maintaining spiritual cleanliness. The discharge symbolizes a disruption in the natural order, and thus, the person becomes a symbol of impurity that must be addressed.

must wash his clothes and bathe with water
The requirement to "wash his clothes and bathe with water" underscores the importance of purification rituals in the Israelite community. The Hebrew word for "wash" is "כָּבַס" (kabas), which involves thorough cleansing. Water, in biblical symbolism, often represents purification and renewal. This ritual washing signifies a return to a state of purity and readiness to re-enter the community and worship. It highlights the grace of God in providing a means for restoration and cleanliness.

and he will be unclean until evening
The phrase "unclean until evening" indicates a temporary state of impurity. The Hebrew word for "unclean" is "טָמֵא" (tame), which denotes a state of being ritually impure. The evening marks the transition to a new day in the Hebrew calendar, symbolizing a fresh start and the restoration of purity. This temporal aspect of uncleanness teaches about the transient nature of impurity and the hope of renewal. It reflects the mercy of God, who provides a way for His people to be cleansed and restored to fellowship with Him and the community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man with the Discharge
This refers to an individual experiencing a bodily discharge, which, according to Levitical law, rendered him ceremonially unclean.

2. The Person Who Touches
Anyone who comes into contact with the man with the discharge becomes unclean and must follow specific purification rituals.

3. Ceremonial Cleansing
The process of washing clothes and bathing with water as a means to restore ceremonial cleanliness.

4. Unclean Until Evening
The period during which the person remains ceremonially unclean, emphasizing the temporary nature of this state.

5. The Israelite Community
The broader context involves the community of Israel, which is called to maintain holiness and purity as a reflection of God's nature.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
The laws of cleanliness in Leviticus emphasize the importance of holiness and separation from impurity. As believers, we are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness.

The Temporary Nature of Uncleanliness
The requirement to wash and be unclean until evening shows that uncleanliness is not permanent. This can be a reminder of God's grace and the opportunity for restoration.

The Importance of Community
The laws served to protect the community from physical and spiritual contamination. In the church, we are called to support one another in maintaining purity and holiness.

Spiritual Cleansing
While the Old Testament laws focused on physical cleanliness, they point to the deeper need for spiritual cleansing, which is fulfilled in Christ.

Practical Obedience
The detailed instructions in Leviticus remind us of the importance of obedience to God's commands, even when they may seem mundane or ritualistic.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of ceremonial uncleanliness in Leviticus 15:7 relate to our understanding of sin and purity today?

2. In what ways can the temporary nature of being "unclean until evening" encourage us in our spiritual walk?

3. How do the purification rituals in Leviticus point to the work of Christ in the New Testament?

4. What practical steps can we take to maintain spiritual purity in our daily lives, drawing from the principles in Leviticus 15:7?

5. How can the church community support individuals in their journey towards holiness, as seen in the communal aspect of the Levitical laws?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11 and 13
These chapters also discuss laws of cleanliness and uncleanliness, providing a broader context for understanding the purity laws in Leviticus 15.

Numbers 19
This chapter outlines the purification process using the water of cleansing, which parallels the washing and bathing required in Leviticus 15:7.

Mark 5:25-34
The account of the woman with the issue of blood highlights the social and religious implications of being unclean, as well as Jesus' power to cleanse and heal.

Hebrews 10:22
This verse speaks of drawing near to God with a sincere heart and the cleansing of our bodies, connecting the physical purification rituals to spiritual truths.