Leviticus 14:49

He is to take two birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop to purify the house;

Study Bible

To cleanse the house
The phrase "to cleanse the house" refers to the ritual purification process prescribed by God for a house afflicted with mold or mildew, which was considered unclean. In the Hebrew context, the word for "cleanse" is "טָהֵר" (taher), which means to purify or make ceremonially clean. This reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness and the separation from impurity, emphasizing God's desire for His people to live in purity and righteousness.

he is to take
This phrase indicates the action required by the priest, who acts as an intermediary between God and the people. The priest's role is crucial in the Old Testament as a mediator of God's laws and rituals. The Hebrew verb "לָקַח" (laqach) means to take or to bring, signifying the priest's active participation in the cleansing process, which underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands.

two birds
The use of "two birds" in the cleansing ritual is symbolic and significant. Birds, often sparrows or doves, were common in sacrificial rites due to their availability and symbolic representation of innocence and purity. The Hebrew word for bird, "צִפּוֹר" (tsippor), is used here, and the duality of the birds may represent the dual aspects of cleansing and atonement, pointing to the future ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who cleanses us from sin.

cedar wood
"Cedar wood" is mentioned frequently in the Bible, known for its durability and pleasant aroma. The Hebrew word "אֶרֶז" (erez) refers to the cedar tree, which was highly valued in ancient times. Cedar wood's inclusion in the ritual symbolizes strength and incorruptibility, qualities that are associated with God's eternal nature and the enduring purity He desires for His people.

scarlet yarn
The "scarlet yarn" is a vivid red thread used in various purification rites. The Hebrew term "שָׁנִי" (shani) refers to the color scarlet, which is often associated with sacrifice and atonement in the Bible. This color symbolizes the blood of sacrifices, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood cleanses believers from sin.

and hyssop
"Hyssop" is a plant used in ancient purification rituals, known for its cleansing properties. The Hebrew word "אֵזוֹב" (ezov) refers to this plant, which was used to sprinkle blood or water in purification ceremonies. Hyssop's inclusion in the ritual highlights the theme of cleansing and purification, as seen in Psalm 51:7, where David prays, "Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean." This points to the spiritual cleansing available through faith in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The priest is responsible for performing the purification rituals, acting as a mediator between God and the people.

2. House
Represents the dwelling place of the Israelites, which can become unclean and require purification.

3. Two Birds
Used in the purification ritual, symbolizing cleansing and atonement.

4. Cedar Wood
A durable and aromatic wood, symbolizing strength and purification.

5. Scarlet Yarn
Represents the color of blood, symbolizing sacrifice and cleansing.

6. Hyssop
A plant used for sprinkling in purification rites, symbolizing cleansing and purification.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Cleansing
The elements used in the purification ritual (birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, hyssop) symbolize the comprehensive nature of God's cleansing. Just as these elements were used to purify a physical space, God desires to purify our hearts and lives.

Role of the Priest
The priest's role in the purification process highlights the need for a mediator. In the New Testament, Jesus is our High Priest, mediating on our behalf and providing ultimate purification through His sacrifice.

Importance of Obedience
The detailed instructions for purification underscore the importance of obedience to God's commands. In our lives, we are called to follow God's instructions for living a holy life.

Spiritual Cleansing
Just as the house required physical cleansing, we require spiritual cleansing from sin. This is achieved through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

Community and Holiness
The purification of a house reflects the communal aspect of holiness. Our personal and communal spaces should reflect God's holiness and purity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 14:49 foreshadow the role of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. What do the elements used in the purification ritual (birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, hyssop) teach us about the nature of God's cleansing?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience seen in the purification rituals to our daily walk with God?

4. In what ways does the concept of spiritual cleansing in Leviticus 14:49 relate to the New Testament teachings on repentance and forgiveness?

5. How can we ensure that our personal and communal spaces reflect the holiness and purity that God desires?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 14:4-7
Provides context for the use of birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop in purification rituals, emphasizing the process of cleansing from leprosy.

Psalm 51:7
David's plea for purification with hyssop, connecting the physical act of cleansing with spiritual purification.

Hebrews 9:19-22
Discusses the use of blood and hyssop in the Old Testament purification rituals, pointing to the ultimate cleansing through Christ's sacrifice.