What is the meaning of Leviticus 15:14? On the eighth day “On the eighth day” (Leviticus 15:14) signals the completion of the required seven-day waiting period after the man’s bodily discharge had ceased (Leviticus 15:13). The eighth day regularly marks a fresh start in Scripture: • Circumcision was on the eighth day (Leviticus 12:3; Genesis 17:12; Luke 2:21), showing covenant renewal. • The cleansed leper also appeared on the eighth day with offerings (Leviticus 14:10, 23), underscoring restored fellowship. The rhythm communicates that God provides a definite, literal moment when uncleanness is finished and fellowship may resume. he is to take two turtledoves or two young pigeons The Lord requires “two turtledoves or two young pigeons,” small birds anyone could afford (cf. Leviticus 1:14; 5:7). • Their availability highlights God’s compassionate accessibility; no one is priced out of worship (Luke 2:24 shows Mary and Joseph bringing the same offering). • Two birds allow for a sin offering and a burnt offering (Leviticus 15:15), covering both guilt and renewed dedication. • The birds stand in the man’s place, picturing substitution—anticipating the perfect, once-for-all substitute (Hebrews 9:12). come before the LORD at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting Approaching “before the LORD” emphasizes that cleansing is ultimately about restored relationship, not mere hygiene. • The entrance is the appointed place of meeting (Leviticus 1:3; Exodus 29:42), reminding Israel that access to God is on His terms. • Today, believers are invited to draw near “by a new and living way” opened through Christ (Hebrews 10:19-22), yet the principle of reverent approach remains. and give them to the priest Handing the birds “to the priest” underlines the necessity of a mediator. • The priest presents the offerings, sprinkles blood, and pronounces the man clean (Leviticus 15:15; 5:10), illustrating the God-ordained channel of grace. • This priestly role foreshadows the unique, sufficient mediation of Jesus Christ, “the one mediator between God and men” (1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 7:25). summary Leviticus 15:14 teaches that after uncleanness, God provides a clear path back into His presence: a set time (eighth day), an accessible sacrifice (two birds), an appointed place (Tent entrance), and an authorized mediator (priest). Each element points both to the literal requirements Israel obeyed and to the fuller cleansing and access secured by Christ for all who trust Him. |
    |