Is being clean akin to being godly?

Definition of “Clean” in Scripture

The concept of “clean” in Scripture primarily conveys a state of purity that aligns with God’s law and holiness. It can involve external practices, such as ritual washing, as well as internal attributes like a sincere heart. The original Hebrew and Greek words connected to “clean” often point to something untainted, pure, or free from defilement.

This emphasis plays a significant role throughout the Bible, from the meticulous ceremonies in the Old Testament to the transformative messages of the New Testament. While outward cleanliness can symbolize holiness, the underlying principle focuses on moral and spiritual purity before God.

Ritual Cleanliness in the Old Testament

Under the Mosaic Law, precise instructions were provided regarding foods, bodily conditions, and ceremonies that would render a person “clean” or “unclean.” This included guidelines on prohibited animals (Leviticus 11), contact with blood or corpses (Leviticus 15; Numbers 19), and various purification rituals (Leviticus 14).

For example, lepers were to undergo a special rite if healed: “The priest is to go outside the camp to examine him, and if the skin disease of the afflicted person has healed, the priest shall order that two live clean birds...be taken for the one to be cleansed” (Leviticus 14:3–4). These specific and detailed instructions underscored how seriously God views holiness and how His people were to approach Him in purity.

Additionally, the sacrificial system illustrated that spiritual darkness and sinfulness demanded atonement and purification. These practices were tangible reminders of humanity’s need for cleansing from sin and separation from the holy presence of God.

Moral and Spiritual Cleanliness

While ceremonial practices were necessary under the Old Covenant, Scripture consistently reinforces that God desires the heart to be cleansed from sin. David pleads, “Purify me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow” (Psalm 51:7). This passage reveals that genuine purity extends beyond ritual actions; it is rooted in repentance, confession, and a renewed spirit.

The prophets also rebuked the people for relying on external rituals while neglecting justice and mercy. Isaiah highlights this, stating, “Wash and cleanse yourselves. Remove your evil deeds from My sight. Stop doing evil!” (Isaiah 1:16). True cleanliness intertwines moral uprightness with humble submission to God’s standards.

Emphasis on the Heart in the New Testament

Jesus intensifies the heart-focused emphasis on purity. When the Pharisees criticized His disciples for not following certain ritual washings, He responded, “Nothing that enters a man from the outside can defile him, but the things that come out of a man are what defile him” (Mark 7:15). Here, the internal motives and thoughts take precedence over external ceremonial practices.

Moreover, Jesus taught, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God” (Matthew 5:8). Purity becomes inseparable from authentic faith, humility, and devotion. The New Testament further clarifies that the cleansing of sin is accomplished through Christ’s sacrifice, as believers “have been cleansed of their past sins” (2 Peter 1:9) and are transformed by the Holy Spirit.

Symbolic and Practical Implications

In biblical times, washing before worship was not merely about hygiene but also an expression of reverence and preparedness. This principle remains instructive: while physical hygiene is good stewardship of the body, true godliness resides in aligning one’s heart, mind, and behavior with God’s righteousness.

The Old Covenant laws served as a tutor, pointing to the profound need for spiritual renewal. As the writer of Hebrews explains, these regulations were “external regulations applying until the time of reformation” (Hebrews 9:10). The reality is realized in Christ, whose redemption makes possible a purity that arises from faith and righteousness, rather than from outward conformity alone.

Conclusion

Being “clean” in the Bible involves much more than outward hygiene or ritual practice. Though physical cleanliness was part of Old Testament worship, God consistently directed His people toward deeper repentance and devotion. He calls for lives free from moral stain and driven by humble submission to His commands.

In that sense, being clean often parallels being godly, but only when it flows from genuine faith and purity of heart. Individuals can practice external routines, yet remain spiritually unclean if their hearts are far from God. The transformative work of Christ and the Holy Spirit provides the ultimate fulfillment of true cleanliness, pointing toward holy living that reflects God’s character and brings honor to His name.