Leviticus 14:51

Then he shall take the cedar wood, the hyssop, the scarlet yarn, and the live bird, dip them in the blood of the slaughtered bird and the fresh water, and sprinkle the house seven times.

Study Bible

Then he is to take
This phrase indicates a specific action required by the priest, emphasizing the importance of obedience and precision in following God's commands. The Hebrew root for "take" is "laqach," which often implies receiving or acquiring with intention. This action signifies the priest's role as an intermediary, carefully executing God's instructions to ensure the ritual's efficacy.

the cedar wood
Cedar wood, known for its durability and pleasant aroma, symbolizes strength and purification. In ancient times, cedar was highly valued for construction and religious purposes. Its inclusion in the ritual underscores the enduring nature of God's covenant and the purification process. The Hebrew word "erez" reflects its significance in biblical symbolism, often associated with majesty and incorruptibility.

the hyssop
Hyssop, a small aromatic plant, is frequently mentioned in purification rites. Its use here highlights its symbolic role in cleansing and atonement. The Hebrew term "ezov" is linked to purification, as seen in Psalm 51:7, "Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean." Hyssop's presence in the ritual underscores the transformative power of God's forgiveness and renewal.

the scarlet yarn
Scarlet yarn, or "tola'at shani" in Hebrew, represents sin and redemption. The vivid color symbolizes both the stain of sin and the blood of atonement. In Isaiah 1:18, God promises, "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow." This dual symbolism reflects the comprehensive nature of God's redemptive work through the ritual.

and the live bird
The live bird represents freedom and new life. In Hebrew, "tsippor" denotes a small bird, often used in sacrificial contexts. The release of the live bird symbolizes the removal of impurity and the restoration of the individual or community to a state of purity and wholeness, echoing the theme of liberation found throughout Scripture.

dip them together with the live bird
This action signifies the unity of the elements in the purification process. The Hebrew word "tabal" means to dip or immerse, indicating a thorough and complete cleansing. The act of dipping symbolizes the immersion of the individual or community in God's grace and mercy, leading to spiritual renewal.

in the blood of the slaughtered bird
Blood, or "dam" in Hebrew, is a powerful symbol of life and atonement. The use of blood in the ritual underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of sacrifice for purification. It points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, whose blood cleanses believers from all sin, as highlighted in Hebrews 9:22, "Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness."

and the fresh water
Fresh water, or "mayim chayim," represents life and cleansing. Water is a recurring symbol of purification in Scripture, signifying the washing away of impurity and the renewal of life. This element of the ritual emphasizes the life-giving and cleansing power of God's Spirit, as seen in John 7:38, "Whoever believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him."

and sprinkle the house seven times
The act of sprinkling, "nazah" in Hebrew, is a ritual gesture of purification and consecration. The number seven signifies completeness and perfection in biblical numerology. Sprinkling the house seven times symbolizes the thoroughness of God's cleansing and the complete restoration of holiness, reflecting the perfection of God's work in creation and redemption.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The priest is the central figure in the purification process, acting as a mediator between God and the people.

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

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

4. Scarlet Yarn
Represents the color of blood, symbolizing life and atonement.

5. Live Bird
Represents freedom and life, used in the ritual to symbolize the removal of impurity.

6. Slaughtered Bird
Represents sacrifice and atonement, its blood used for purification.

7. House
The physical structure being cleansed, symbolizing the dwelling place of the people.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Cleansing
The elements used in the ritual (cedar, hyssop, scarlet yarn, and birds) each carry deep symbolic meanings related to purification, strength, and life. Reflect on how these symbols point to the need for spiritual cleansing in our lives.

Role of the Priest
The priest's role as a mediator highlights the importance of intercession and the need for a mediator between God and humanity. Consider how Christ fulfills this role as our High Priest.

Importance of Sacrifice
The slaughtered bird's blood signifies the necessity of sacrifice for atonement. Reflect on how this foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ for our sins.

Spiritual Renewal
The act of sprinkling the house seven times signifies completeness and thoroughness in cleansing. Consider how we can seek complete spiritual renewal in our own lives.

Community and Holiness
The purification of a house emphasizes the importance of communal holiness and the impact of individual impurity on the community. Reflect on how personal holiness contributes to the health of the church community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the elements used in the purification ritual (cedar wood, hyssop, scarlet yarn, and birds) deepen our understanding of spiritual cleansing?

2. In what ways does the role of the priest in Leviticus 14:51 point to the work of Jesus as our High Priest?

3. How can the concept of sacrifice in this passage help us appreciate the sacrifice of Christ in the New Testament?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that our spiritual "houses" are thoroughly cleansed and renewed?

5. How does personal holiness impact the broader community of believers, and what practical steps can we take to promote communal holiness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The use of hyssop in the Passover, where it was used to apply the blood of the lamb to the doorposts, symbolizing protection and deliverance.

Psalm 51
David's plea for purification with hyssop, symbolizing spiritual cleansing and renewal.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the purification rites and the ultimate cleansing through Christ's sacrifice, connecting the Old Testament rituals to the New Covenant.