Leviticus 22:6

the man who touches any of these will remain unclean until evening. He must not eat from the sacred offerings unless he has bathed himself with water.

Study Bible

The man who touches
This phrase emphasizes the personal responsibility and the direct consequence of contact with anything deemed unclean. In Hebrew, the word for "touches" is "נָגַע" (naga), which implies not just a casual contact but an intentional or significant interaction. This highlights the importance of purity and the awareness required in maintaining holiness, especially for those serving in the priestly role.

any of these
This refers to the various sources of uncleanness listed in the preceding verses, such as carcasses or bodily discharges. The specificity of "any of these" underscores the comprehensive nature of the purity laws, which were designed to maintain the sanctity of the community and the tabernacle. It reflects the meticulous care God requires in worship and service.

will be unclean
The Hebrew word for "unclean" is "טָמֵא" (tamei), which denotes a state of ritual impurity. This is not merely a physical condition but a spiritual one, affecting one's ability to participate in communal worship. The concept of uncleanness serves as a reminder of the separation between the holy and the profane, and the need for purification before approaching God.

until evening
The time frame "until evening" indicates a temporary state of impurity. Evening, marking the start of a new day in the Hebrew calendar, symbolizes renewal and restoration. This reflects God's grace and the opportunity for cleansing and a fresh start, emphasizing that impurity is not permanent but can be rectified.

He must not eat
This prohibition highlights the seriousness of maintaining purity before partaking in sacred activities. Eating of the sacred offerings was a privilege and a duty for the priests, symbolizing their participation in the divine provision. The restriction serves as a safeguard for the sanctity of the offerings and the holiness of the priesthood.

of the sacred offerings
The "sacred offerings" refer to the portions of sacrifices designated for the priests, which were considered holy. The Hebrew term "קָדָשִׁים" (qodashim) signifies things set apart for God. This underscores the concept of holiness as separation for divine purposes, and the need for those who handle holy things to be pure.

until he has bathed himself with water
The act of bathing with water is a ritual purification, symbolizing the removal of impurity. Water, in the biblical context, often represents cleansing and renewal. This requirement points to the necessity of external actions reflecting internal purity, and the importance of preparation before engaging in sacred duties.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The primary audience of Leviticus 22, the priests were responsible for maintaining ritual purity to serve in the tabernacle and later the temple.

2. Tabernacle/Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where the sacred offerings were made.

3. Sacred Offerings
These were offerings dedicated to God, which the priests were allowed to eat under conditions of ritual purity.

4. Uncleanliness
A state that prevented individuals from participating in religious activities, often due to contact with certain objects or situations.

5. Evening
The time by which ritual uncleanliness would end, symbolizing a new day and a return to purity.

Teaching Points

Ritual Purity and Holiness
The laws of cleanliness in Leviticus highlight the importance of approaching God with reverence and purity. As believers, we are called to live holy lives, set apart for God's purposes.

Symbolism of Water
Bathing with water symbolizes spiritual cleansing. In the New Testament, baptism represents the washing away of sin and the beginning of a new life in Christ.

Temporary vs. Permanent Cleansing
The temporary nature of ritual cleansing in the Old Testament points to the need for a permanent solution, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who offers eternal purification from sin.

Obedience to God's Commands
The priests' adherence to these laws demonstrates the importance of obedience to God's commands. As Christians, we are called to obey God's Word and live according to His standards.

Community and Worship
Maintaining purity was essential for communal worship. Similarly, our personal holiness impacts our ability to worship and serve within the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of ritual purity in Leviticus 22:6 relate to our understanding of holiness today?

2. In what ways does the requirement for bathing with water in Leviticus 22:6 foreshadow the New Testament practice of baptism?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience to God's commands in our daily lives, as seen in the priests' adherence to purity laws?

4. What are some modern-day "unclean" influences that might hinder our spiritual walk, and how can we address them?

5. How does understanding the temporary nature of Old Testament purification rituals enhance our appreciation for the permanent cleansing offered through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11
Discusses various laws of clean and unclean animals, providing context for what might cause a person to become unclean.

Numbers 19
Details the purification process with water, similar to the bathing mentioned in Leviticus 22:6.

Hebrews 9
Explains the limitations of the old covenant's purification rituals and points to Christ's ultimate purification.

1 Peter 1
Calls believers to be holy, reflecting the call to purity found in Leviticus.

Mark 7
Jesus discusses what truly defiles a person, offering a deeper understanding of purity beyond ritual cleanliness.