The concepts of "clean" and "unclean" in the Bible are deeply rooted in the religious, moral, and cultural life of ancient Israel. These terms are primarily associated with the Levitical laws and are extensively detailed in the books of Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. The symbolism of clean and unclean extends beyond mere physical cleanliness, encompassing spiritual, moral, and ritual purity.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the distinction between clean and unclean is most explicitly outlined in the Levitical laws. Leviticus 11 provides a comprehensive list of animals considered clean and unclean, affecting dietary practices: "You must distinguish between the clean and the unclean, between animals that may be eaten and those that may not" (Leviticus 11:47). These laws served to set Israel apart from other nations, emphasizing holiness and obedience to God's commands.

The symbolism of clean and unclean also pertains to various aspects of life, including childbirth, skin diseases, and bodily discharges (Leviticus 12-15). For instance, a person with a skin disease was considered unclean and required to undergo specific purification rituals to be restored to the community (Leviticus 13-14). These laws underscored the importance of purity in approaching God, as uncleanliness was often associated with sin and separation from the divine presence.

Moral and Spiritual Implications

Beyond ritualistic observance, the clean and unclean laws carried moral and spiritual implications. The prophets frequently used the language of clean and unclean to address the moral state of the people. Isaiah, for example, lamented the spiritual uncleanness of Israel: "We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags" (Isaiah 64:6). This metaphorical use highlights the need for inner purity and repentance.

The Psalms also reflect this theme, as seen in David's plea for a clean heart: "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me" (Psalm 51:10). Here, cleanliness is equated with moral integrity and a right relationship with God.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ reinterprets the concept of clean and unclean, emphasizing the heart's condition over external observance. In Mark 7:15, Jesus declares, "Nothing that enters a man from the outside can defile him, but the things that come out of a man, these are what defile him" . This teaching shifts the focus from ritual purity to the purity of one's thoughts and actions.

The apostle Peter's vision in Acts 10 further illustrates this transition. In the vision, Peter is shown a sheet with various animals and is told, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean" (Acts 10:15). This revelation signifies the inclusion of Gentiles into the covenant community and the abrogation of dietary restrictions, symbolizing the universality of the Gospel.

Theological Significance

The symbolism of clean and unclean in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder of God's holiness and the call for His people to be set apart. It underscores the necessity of purity in worship and daily living, pointing ultimately to the redemptive work of Christ, who cleanses believers from sin and impurity. The transition from Old Testament ritual laws to New Testament spiritual principles reflects the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, culminating in the call for a holy and blameless life through faith in Jesus Christ.