In the Bible, menstruation is addressed primarily in the Old Testament, particularly within the context of the Mosaic Law. The primary passages that discuss menstruation are found in the book of Leviticus, which outlines the laws and regulations given to the Israelites.

Levitical Law and Ritual Purity

The book of Leviticus provides detailed instructions regarding ritual purity, and menstruation is specifically addressed in Leviticus 15:19-30. According to these passages, a woman is considered ceremonially unclean during her menstrual period:

"When a woman has a discharge, and the discharge from her body is blood, she shall be in her menstrual impurity for seven days, and whoever touches her shall be unclean until evening." (Leviticus 15:19)

During this time, anything she lies on or sits on is also considered unclean, and anyone who touches these items must wash their clothes and bathe in water and will remain unclean until evening. This period of impurity lasts for seven days, and after her menstruation ends, she is required to bring two offerings to the priest: a burnt offering and a sin offering, to make atonement for her before the Lord.

Cultural and Religious Context

The laws concerning menstruation were part of a broader system of purity laws that governed the daily lives of the Israelites. These laws served to distinguish the Israelites from surrounding nations and to instill a sense of holiness and separation unto God. The concept of ritual purity was deeply embedded in the religious and cultural practices of ancient Israel, and adherence to these laws was seen as an act of obedience to God.

Symbolism and Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the laws regarding menstruation can be seen as symbolic of the fallen human condition and the need for purification and atonement. Blood, in the biblical context, often represents life and death, and the shedding of blood through menstruation may have been viewed as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the focus shifts from ritual purity to spiritual purity. Jesus Christ, through His life, death, and resurrection, fulfills the requirements of the Law and offers a new covenant based on grace and faith. The account of the woman with the issue of blood, found in Mark 5:25-34 and Luke 8:43-48, illustrates this shift. The woman, who had been suffering from a bleeding disorder for twelve years, was considered perpetually unclean under the Levitical law. However, when she touched the hem of Jesus' garment, she was healed, and Jesus commended her faith:

"Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be free of your affliction." (Mark 5:34)

This account highlights the transformative power of faith in Christ and the move from ritualistic observance to a personal relationship with God.

Contemporary Considerations

In contemporary Christian thought, the Old Testament laws regarding menstruation are often viewed as part of the ceremonial law that was fulfilled in Christ. While these laws are not binding on Christians today, they provide insight into the historical and cultural context of the Bible and underscore the importance of holiness and purity in the life of a believer. The emphasis is now on spiritual cleanliness and living a life that honors God through faith and obedience to His Word.