Numbers 19:20

But if a person who is unclean does not purify himself, he will be cut off from the assembly, because he has defiled the sanctuary of the LORD. The water of purification has not been sprinkled on him; he is unclean.

Study Bible

But the man who is unclean
The term "unclean" in Hebrew is "טָמֵא" (tamei), which refers to a state of ritual impurity. In the context of ancient Israel, being unclean was not merely a physical condition but a spiritual one that required purification. This concept underscores the holiness of God and the need for His people to approach Him with reverence and purity. The state of uncleanness could result from various causes, such as contact with a corpse, and it necessitated a process of cleansing to restore the individual to a state of ritual purity.

and does not purify himself
The act of purification was essential in maintaining one's relationship with God and the community. The Hebrew word for purify is "טָהֵר" (taher), which means to be clean or pure. This purification process often involved specific rituals, such as washing with water or offering sacrifices. The refusal or neglect to undergo purification was seen as a deliberate act of disobedience and rebellion against God's commandments, highlighting the importance of obedience and the seriousness of sin.

will be cut off from the assembly
To be "cut off" (Hebrew: "כָּרַת" - karat) from the assembly was a severe consequence, indicating exclusion from the community of Israel. This phrase implies both a social and spiritual separation, as the individual would be removed from the blessings and protection of the covenant community. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of maintaining holiness within the community of believers.

because he has defiled the sanctuary of the LORD
The sanctuary, or "מִקְדָּשׁ" (miqdash) in Hebrew, was the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. To defile the sanctuary was to bring impurity into the holy space, which was an affront to God's holiness. This phrase emphasizes the sanctity of the place where God chose to dwell and the responsibility of His people to uphold its purity. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God's holiness and the call for His people to be holy as He is holy.

The water of cleansing has not been sprinkled on him
The "water of cleansing" refers to the water mixed with the ashes of a red heifer, as described earlier in Numbers 19. This water was used in the purification rites to cleanse those who had become ritually unclean. The act of sprinkling this water symbolized the removal of impurity and the restoration of the individual to a state of holiness. This ritual points forward to the ultimate cleansing provided through Christ, who purifies believers from sin.

and he is unclean
The repetition of the state of uncleanness underscores the seriousness of the condition. Remaining in a state of impurity was not merely a personal issue but affected the entire community's relationship with God. This phrase serves as a warning of the dangers of neglecting God's provision for cleansing and the need for continual purification in the life of a believer. It calls Christians to seek spiritual cleansing through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, who offers the ultimate purification from sin.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Unclean Man
Represents any individual who has become ceremonially unclean and fails to undergo the prescribed purification process.

2. The Assembly
Refers to the community of Israel, the people of God, from whom the unclean person is to be cut off if they do not purify themselves.

3. The Sanctuary of the LORD
The holy place where God's presence dwells among His people, which must remain undefiled.

4. The Water of Cleansing
A special mixture used for purification, symbolizing the removal of impurity and sin.

5. The Act of Being Cut Off
A severe consequence for failing to adhere to God's commands regarding purity, signifying separation from the community and from God.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin and Impurity
Sin and impurity are not trivial matters; they separate us from God and His people. We must take them seriously and seek God's provision for cleansing.

The Necessity of Obedience
God's commands regarding purity were not optional. Obedience to His Word is crucial for maintaining fellowship with Him and His community.

The Provision of Cleansing
Just as the water of cleansing was provided for purification, God has provided Jesus Christ as the ultimate means of cleansing from sin.

The Consequences of Neglect
Ignoring God's provision for purification leads to separation from Him. We must not neglect the means of grace He has given us.

The Call to Holiness
As believers, we are called to live holy lives, set apart for God. This involves both external actions and internal heart attitudes.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the requirement for purification in Numbers 19:20 teach us about the nature of sin and its impact on our relationship with God?

2. How does the concept of being "cut off" from the assembly relate to the New Testament teachings on church discipline and restoration?

3. In what ways does the provision of the water of cleansing in the Old Testament foreshadow the cleansing work of Jesus Christ?

4. How can we apply the principles of purification and holiness in our daily lives as believers today?

5. What steps can we take to ensure we are not neglecting the spiritual cleansing available to us through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 15
Discusses various laws of cleanliness and the importance of purification, emphasizing the need for holiness among God's people.

Hebrews 9
Explains the limitations of the old covenant's purification rituals and points to Christ's ultimate sacrifice for true cleansing.

1 John 1:9
Highlights the spiritual cleansing available through confession and the forgiveness of sins in Christ.

Psalm 51
David's plea for purification and a clean heart, reflecting the deeper spiritual need for cleansing beyond ceremonial laws.