What is the meaning of Leviticus 14:50? and he shall slaughter • The priest performs a literal act of killing, underscoring the seriousness of sin and impurity (Leviticus 1:5; Hebrews 9:22). • Sacrifice points forward to the ultimate, once-for-all offering of Christ (Hebrews 10:10). • The priest, not the sufferer, carries out the act, picturing the need for an appointed mediator (Leviticus 4:20; 1 Timothy 2:5). one of the birds • Two birds are chosen (Leviticus 14:4), yet only one dies—illustrating substitution: one life given so another may go free (Leviticus 14:6-7). • Birds were affordable for the poor (Leviticus 5:7; Luke 2:24), revealing God’s provision for every believer regardless of status. • The living bird, later released, proclaims cleansing and new life (Psalm 103:12; 2 Corinthians 5:17). over fresh water • “Fresh” (literally “living”) water symbolizes purity and life (Jeremiah 2:13; John 7:37-38). • Blood mingling with living water foreshadows the saving flow from Christ’s side—blood and water together (John 19:34; 1 John 5:6). • The water prevents congealing of blood, ensuring the rite remains visibly vivid, driving home the cost of purification (Hebrews 12:24). in a clay pot. • An earthen vessel parallels human frailty (Job 10:9; 2 Corinthians 4:7). • Clay absorbs some blood, emphasizing both judgment and cleansing contained within humanity’s humble frame (Leviticus 6:28). • The pot would be broken afterward (Leviticus 6:28), reminding us that old, sin-stained containers cannot be reused—hinting at the new covenant promise of new hearts (Ezekiel 36:26). summary Leviticus 14:50 teaches that true cleansing costs a life, is administered by God’s appointed mediator, unites substitutionary blood with living water, and occurs within the fragile context of humanity. Every detail directs our gaze to Christ, who shed His blood, offers living water, and brings lasting purification to all who trust Him. |
    |