In biblical literature, the concept of cleanliness often extends beyond physical hygiene to encompass spiritual and moral purity. The "man who is clean" is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures, symbolizing a person who is in right standing with God, both in conduct and heart.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the laws of cleanliness are extensively detailed, particularly in the books of Leviticus and Numbers. These laws were given to the Israelites to set them apart as God's holy people. Physical cleanliness was a symbol of spiritual purity and obedience to God's commandments. For instance, Leviticus 11-15 outlines various laws regarding clean and unclean animals, bodily discharges, and skin diseases. The man who is clean is one who adheres to these laws, thereby maintaining ritual purity.

Leviticus 14:8-9 describes the cleansing process for a leper: "The one being cleansed must wash his clothes, shave off all his hair, and bathe with water; then he will be clean. After that, he may enter the camp, but he must remain outside his tent for seven days. On the seventh day he must shave off all his hair—his head, his beard, his eyebrows, and the rest of his hair. He must wash his clothes and bathe himself with water, and he will be clean."

Spiritual and Moral Cleanliness

Beyond physical cleanliness, the Old Testament also emphasizes the importance of spiritual and moral purity. Psalm 24:3-4 asks, "Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear deceitfully." Here, clean hands symbolize righteous actions, while a pure heart signifies inner holiness and sincerity.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the focus shifts from ritualistic observance to the condition of the heart. Jesus Christ, in His teachings, often challenged the Pharisees and religious leaders who emphasized external cleanliness while neglecting inner purity. In Matthew 23:25-26 , Jesus rebukes them: "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, so that the outside may become clean as well."

The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this theme in his epistles. In 2 Corinthians 7:1 , he exhorts believers: "Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that defiles body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." Here, cleanliness is associated with sanctification and the pursuit of holiness.

The Role of Christ's Sacrifice

The ultimate fulfillment of cleanliness is found in the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, believers are cleansed from sin and made righteous before God. Hebrews 9:13-14 states, "For if the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them so that their bodies are clean, how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from dead works to serve the living God?"

Practical Implications for Believers

For the Christian, being "clean" involves a daily commitment to live according to God's Word, seeking forgiveness and cleansing through Christ's atoning sacrifice. 1 John 1:9 assures believers, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

In summary, the man who is clean in biblical terms is one who, through faith in Christ, maintains both outward and inward purity, striving to live a life that is pleasing to God.