What is the meaning of Leviticus 15:8? If the man with the discharge • Moses has already described such a man in Leviticus 15:2–3 as someone whose bodily fluid indicates disease or infection. • The discharge places him in the “unclean” category, a status that protects the camp from ceremonial defilement (Leviticus 13:45–46). • This verse shows that uncleanness is not merely personal; it can be transferred (Numbers 19:22). spits on one who is clean • Saliva is singled out because it is an easily transmitted fluid, highlighting the contagious nature of uncleanness. • Similar everyday actions—touching a seat the man has used, for example—also spread impurity (Leviticus 15:4–7). • Jesus alludes to deeper heart issues behind outward defilement in Mark 7:20–23, yet He never dismisses the Old Testament standard; He fulfills its intent (Matthew 5:17). that person must wash his clothes and bathe with water • The remedy is simple and accessible: water and waiting. God’s law balances holiness with mercy (Exodus 30:17–21). • Washing garments symbolizes removing contamination; bathing pictures personal repentance and renewal (Psalm 51:2). • Similar washings appear for those who handle a corpse (Numbers 19:11–13) or touch an unclean animal (Leviticus 11:32). and he will be unclean until evening • The waiting period prevents premature return to worship or community life, guarding Israel’s corporate holiness (Leviticus 7:20–21). • Evening marks a new day in Hebrew reckoning (Genesis 1:5), offering a daily reset—mercy built into the rhythm of law (Lamentations 3:22–23). • The temporary nature of uncleanness points forward to the perfect cleansing Christ provides “once for all” (Hebrews 9:13–14). summary Leviticus 15:8 teaches that bodily discharges transmit ceremonial impurity, even through something as commonplace as spit. God protects His people by requiring cleansing—washing, bathing, and a brief quarantine—so holiness remains uncompromised. While the ritual is temporary, it foreshadows the deeper, permanent cleansing offered in Jesus, who removes not only outward impurity but the inward sin that defiles the heart. |
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