In the context of biblical teachings, emissions of semen are addressed primarily in the Old Testament, specifically within the Mosaic Law. The primary passages that discuss this topic are found in the book of Leviticus, which outlines various laws and regulations for the Israelites concerning ceremonial cleanliness and holiness.

Levitical Law and Ceremonial Cleanliness

Leviticus 15:16-18 provides specific instructions regarding emissions of semen: "When a man has an emission of semen, he must bathe his whole body with water, and he will be unclean until evening. Any clothing or leather on which there is an emission of semen must be washed with water, and it will be unclean until evening. If a man lies with a woman and there is an emission of semen, both must bathe with water, and they will be unclean until evening."

These verses indicate that an emission of semen, whether occurring during sleep (commonly referred to as a nocturnal emission) or during sexual relations, results in a state of ceremonial uncleanness. The prescribed remedy for this uncleanness is washing with water and waiting until evening for the state of uncleanness to pass.

Purpose and Symbolism

The laws concerning emissions of semen, like other purity laws in Leviticus, served to distinguish the Israelites from surrounding nations and to instill a sense of holiness and separation unto God. The requirement for washing and waiting until evening symbolizes a cleansing process, emphasizing the importance of purity and the need for ritual cleanliness in approaching God.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

While the Old Testament law provided specific guidelines for ceremonial cleanliness, the New Testament does not reiterate these laws for Christians. However, the principles of purity and holiness remain significant. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 , the Apostle Paul writes, "It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: You should avoid sexual immorality; each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, not in lustful passion like the Gentiles who do not know God."

This passage underscores the importance of self-control and sanctification, encouraging believers to live in a manner that honors God, which includes maintaining purity in sexual matters.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Israel, the laws regarding emissions of semen were part of a broader system of purity laws that governed many aspects of daily life. These laws were not only about physical cleanliness but also about maintaining a spiritual and communal identity as God's chosen people. The emphasis on washing and waiting until evening reflects a cultural understanding of time and purification processes.

Theological Implications

Theologically, the laws concerning emissions of semen highlight the pervasive nature of sin and the need for cleansing. They point to the broader biblical theme of the need for atonement and the ultimate cleansing provided through Jesus Christ. Hebrews 10:22 speaks to this spiritual cleansing: "Let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and our bodies washed with pure water."

In summary, the biblical references to emissions of semen serve as a reminder of the call to holiness and the need for spiritual and physical purity in the life of a believer.