Leviticus 6:28

The clay pot in which the sin offering is boiled must be broken; if it is boiled in a bronze pot, the pot must be scoured and rinsed with water.

Study Bible

The clay pot
In ancient Israel, clay pots were common household items used for cooking and storage. The Hebrew word for "clay" is "ḥeres," which signifies something fragile and easily broken. This reflects the transient nature of earthly vessels, symbolizing human frailty and the need for purity in worship. The breaking of the clay pot signifies the complete consumption of the offering, ensuring that nothing unholy remains. This act underscores the holiness required in handling sacred offerings, reminding believers of the need for purity and dedication in their service to God.

in which it was boiled
The boiling process was a method of preparing sacrificial meat, ensuring it was fully cooked and suitable for consumption by the priests. The Hebrew verb "bashal" means to boil or cook, indicating a transformation process. This transformation can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual refinement believers undergo through trials and obedience to God's commands. Just as the meat is prepared for a holy purpose, so are believers prepared for service in God's kingdom.

must be broken
The requirement to break the clay pot after use signifies the complete dedication of the offering to God. The Hebrew word "shabar" means to break or shatter, symbolizing the finality and totality of the offering's consecration. This act prevents the pot from being used for common purposes, maintaining the sanctity of what has been dedicated to God. It serves as a reminder of the need for separation from the profane and a life wholly devoted to God's service.

if it was boiled in a bronze pot
Bronze, or "neḥosheth" in Hebrew, was a durable and valuable metal in ancient times, often used for tools and weapons. Unlike clay, bronze could withstand repeated use and cleansing. The use of a bronze pot for boiling signifies strength and resilience, qualities that are desirable in the life of a believer. The distinction between clay and bronze pots highlights the varying degrees of sanctification and the different roles within the community of faith.

it must be scoured and rinsed with water
The process of scouring and rinsing the bronze pot emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and purification. The Hebrew word "marat" means to scour or polish, while "shataph" means to rinse or wash. This cleansing ritual ensures that the pot is free from any residue of the offering, maintaining its readiness for future sacred use. Water, often a symbol of purification and the Holy Spirit, plays a crucial role in this cleansing process. This act serves as a metaphor for the spiritual cleansing believers undergo through repentance and the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, preparing them for continued service in God's kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The people to whom the laws were given, specifically regarding the handling of sacrificial offerings.

3. Tabernacle
The place where the sacrificial offerings were made, serving as the dwelling place of God among His people.

4. Priests
The individuals responsible for performing the sacrifices and ensuring the laws were followed correctly.

5. Sacrificial Offerings
The context of the verse, focusing on the handling of offerings and the vessels used in the process.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Purity
The requirement to break or cleanse the pots signifies the importance of maintaining holiness and purity in all aspects of worship. This teaches us to approach God with reverence and respect, ensuring that our lives are clean and dedicated to His service.

Sanctification of Vessels
Just as the vessels used in sacrifices were to be sanctified, we are called to be vessels of honor, set apart for God's purposes. This calls for a life of holiness and dedication to God's will.

Attention to Detail in Worship
The specific instructions for handling the pots remind us that God cares about the details of our worship. We should strive for excellence and obedience in our spiritual practices, recognizing that even small actions matter to God.

Symbolism of Breaking and Cleansing
The breaking of the clay pot and the cleansing of the bronze pot symbolize the breaking of our old selves and the cleansing of our hearts. This points to the transformative work of Christ in our lives, making us new creations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement to break or cleanse the pots used in sacrifices reflect God's standards for holiness in our lives today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are vessels of honor, as described in 2 Timothy 2:21, in our daily walk with God?

3. What are some practical steps we can take to maintain purity and holiness in our worship and service to God?

4. How does the symbolism of breaking and cleansing relate to the process of sanctification in the life of a believer?

5. How can we apply the principle of attention to detail in worship to our personal and corporate worship experiences?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29:37
Discusses the sanctification of the altar, emphasizing the holiness required in handling sacred objects.

Numbers 19:15
Relates to the purity laws, highlighting the importance of cleanliness in objects that come into contact with holy things.

2 Timothy 2:21
Speaks to the idea of being vessels for honorable use, drawing a parallel to the sanctification of objects used in worship.