Leviticus 17:15

And any person, whether native or foreigner, who eats anything found dead or mauled by wild beasts must wash his clothes and bathe with water, and he will be unclean until evening; then he will be clean.

Study Bible

And any person
This phrase emphasizes the inclusivity of the law, applying to all individuals without exception. The Hebrew word used here is "נֶפֶשׁ" (nephesh), often translated as "soul" or "being," indicating the holistic nature of the law's application. It underscores the communal responsibility and the personal accountability each individual holds in maintaining purity and obedience to God's commandments.

who eats a carcass
The term "carcass" refers to an animal that has died of natural causes or disease, not slaughtered according to the ritual laws. The Hebrew word "נְבֵלָה" (nevelah) is used, which carries connotations of impurity and defilement. This prohibition highlights the importance of distinguishing between clean and unclean, a recurring theme in Levitical law, emphasizing the need for holiness and separation from death and decay.

or anything torn by wild animals
This phrase refers to animals that have been killed by predators, known in Hebrew as "טְרֵפָה" (t'refah). The consumption of such meat was forbidden because it was not slaughtered in a manner that respected the life of the animal, reflecting a broader principle of respect for God's creation and the sanctity of life.

whether he is native or a foreigner
This inclusion of both "native" (Hebrew: "אֶזְרָח" - ezrach) and "foreigner" (Hebrew: "גֵּר" - ger) underscores the universal application of God's laws. It reflects the idea that God's standards of holiness and purity transcend ethnic and cultural boundaries, inviting all who dwell among His people to participate in His covenant community.

must wash his clothes and bathe with water
The act of washing clothes and bathing signifies a ritual purification process. Water, a symbol of cleansing and renewal, is used to remove impurity. This practice points to the deeper spiritual truth of repentance and the need for inner cleansing, foreshadowing the New Testament concept of baptism as a sign of spiritual renewal and purification.

and he will be unclean until evening
The state of being "unclean" until evening indicates a temporary condition, not a permanent state. The Hebrew word "טָמֵא" (tamei) is used, which denotes ritual impurity rather than moral sinfulness. This temporary uncleanness serves as a reminder of human frailty and the need for continual reliance on God's grace and provision for restoration.

then he will be clean
The transition from unclean to clean signifies restoration and reintegration into the community. The Hebrew word "טָהֵר" (taher) means to be pure or clean, reflecting God's desire for His people to live in a state of holiness. This cleansing process points to the ultimate purification available through Christ, who cleanses us from all unrighteousness and restores us to fellowship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Native Israelites
The original recipients of the Levitical laws, including dietary regulations, which were intended to set them apart as God's chosen people.

2. Foreigners
Non-Israelites living among the Israelites, who were also subject to certain laws to maintain communal purity and holiness.

3. Unclean Animals
Animals that died naturally or were killed by other animals, which were considered unclean and not fit for consumption according to the Mosaic Law.

4. Purification Rituals
The process of washing clothes and bathing to remove ceremonial uncleanness, a common practice in the Levitical system.

5. Evening
The time by which a person who followed the purification rituals would be considered clean again, marking the end of a day in the Hebrew calendar.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Distinction
The dietary laws were a means for Israel to maintain holiness and distinction from surrounding nations. As Christians, we are called to live distinct lives that reflect God's holiness.

Obedience to God's Commands
The requirement to wash and bathe after eating unclean animals underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands, even in seemingly small matters.

Community and Inclusion
The inclusion of foreigners in these laws highlights God's concern for the entire community's purity. In the New Testament, this foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles in the Church.

Spiritual Cleansing
The physical act of washing symbolizes the need for spiritual cleansing. As believers, we are cleansed through Christ's sacrifice and are called to live pure lives.

Temporary vs. Permanent Cleansing
The temporary uncleanness until evening contrasts with the permanent cleansing offered through Jesus, who purifies us from all sin.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the dietary laws in Leviticus 17:15 reflect God's desire for His people to be set apart, and how can we apply this principle in our lives today?

2. In what ways does the inclusion of foreigners in these laws demonstrate God's inclusive nature, and how does this relate to the New Testament teaching on the inclusion of Gentiles?

3. How does the concept of ceremonial uncleanness in Leviticus 17:15 relate to the New Testament understanding of spiritual purity and holiness?

4. What are some modern-day practices or habits that might require us to seek spiritual cleansing, and how can we apply the principle of washing and purification in our spiritual lives?

5. How can the principle of not causing others to stumble, as discussed in 1 Corinthians 10, be applied in the context of dietary choices and other lifestyle decisions today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11
Provides a broader context for dietary laws and the distinction between clean and unclean animals.

Acts 10
Peter's vision of clean and unclean animals, which signifies the removal of dietary restrictions for Christians and the inclusion of Gentiles in the faith.

1 Corinthians 10
Discusses the principle of not causing others to stumble, which can relate to the communal aspect of dietary laws.