Leviticus 16:28

The one who burns them must wash his clothes and bathe himself with water, and afterward he may reenter the camp.

Study Bible

The one who burns them
This phrase refers to the individual responsible for burning the remains of the sin offering outside the camp. In the Hebrew context, the word for "burns" (שָׂרַף, saraph) implies a complete consumption by fire, symbolizing the total eradication of sin. Historically, this act was a critical part of the Day of Atonement rituals, emphasizing the seriousness of sin and the need for purification. The person performing this task was set apart for a holy duty, reflecting the gravity and sacredness of the atonement process.

must wash his clothes
The requirement to wash clothes signifies a transition from impurity to purity. In Hebrew culture, clothing often symbolized one's status and condition before God. The act of washing (כָּבַס, kabas) is a physical representation of spiritual cleansing. This ritual underscores the importance of approaching God with a pure heart and the necessity of removing any defilement associated with handling the sin offering.

and bathe himself with water
Bathing with water (רָחַץ, rachats) is a recurring theme in Levitical law, symbolizing purification and renewal. Water, a vital element in the ancient Near East, represents life and cleansing. This act of bathing is not merely hygienic but deeply spiritual, illustrating the need for inner purification before re-entering the community. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of God's grace, which cleanses believers from sin.

and afterward he may come into the camp
Re-entry into the camp signifies restoration and acceptance back into the community of God's people. The camp represents the dwelling place of the Israelites, where God's presence was manifest. This phrase highlights the completion of the purification process, allowing the individual to return to fellowship with others. It reflects the broader biblical theme of reconciliation and the believer's journey from separation due to sin to restored communion with God and His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The High Priest
The high priest plays a central role in the Day of Atonement rituals, performing sacrifices and entering the Holy of Holies.

2. The Scapegoat
A goat that symbolically carries the sins of the people into the wilderness, representing the removal of sin.

3. The Camp
Refers to the encampment of the Israelites, symbolizing the community of God's people.

4. The One Who Burns the Offerings
This person is responsible for burning the remains of the sin offering outside the camp, highlighting the removal of impurity.

5. The Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur)
An annual event where the high priest makes atonement for the sins of Israel, emphasizing purification and reconciliation with God.

Teaching Points

The Necessity of Purification
The requirement for the one who burns the offerings to wash and bathe underscores the importance of purity before re-entering the community. This teaches us about the need for spiritual cleansing before approaching God.

Symbolism of Sin Removal
The act of burning the remains outside the camp symbolizes the complete removal of sin from the community. This points to the comprehensive nature of Christ's atonement for our sins.

Community and Holiness
The emphasis on purification before returning to the camp highlights the call for holiness within the community of believers. We are reminded to maintain purity in our lives to reflect God's holiness.

Christ as Our High Priest
The rituals of the Day of Atonement foreshadow the work of Christ, who provides a once-for-all atonement for sin. This encourages us to rely on Christ's finished work for our salvation.

Practical Holiness
The physical act of washing and bathing serves as a metaphor for the spiritual cleansing we need. It challenges us to examine areas of our lives that require repentance and renewal.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement for purification in Leviticus 16:28 relate to our need for spiritual cleansing today?

2. In what ways does the Day of Atonement foreshadow the work of Christ as described in the book of Hebrews?

3. How can the concept of removing sin from the camp be applied to maintaining purity within the church community?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we are living in holiness and purity before God?

5. How does understanding the rituals of the Day of Atonement deepen our appreciation for Christ's sacrifice on the cross?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9
This chapter discusses the role of Christ as the ultimate high priest, drawing parallels between the Day of Atonement and Christ's sacrificial work.

Numbers 19
Describes the purification rituals involving the ashes of a red heifer, which also required washing and cleansing, similar to the purification process in Leviticus 16:28.

Psalm 51
David's plea for cleansing and purification from sin echoes the themes of atonement and purification found in Leviticus 16.