Definition and Context:
Ablution for defilement of lepers refers to the ceremonial cleansing process prescribed in the Mosaic Law for individuals who have been healed of leprosy. This ritual is detailed in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Leviticus, and is part of the broader Levitical laws concerning purity and holiness. Leprosy, in biblical times, was considered not only a physical ailment but also a source of ceremonial impurity, necessitating a divinely ordained process for reintegration into the community and worship life of Israel.

Biblical Prescription:
The primary biblical text outlining the ablution for lepers is found in Leviticus 14. The process is intricate and involves several steps, symbolizing both physical and spiritual purification.

1. Initial Examination by the Priest:
The process begins with the priest going outside the camp to examine the leper. If the leper is found to be healed, the priest initiates the cleansing ritual. Leviticus 14:3-4 states, "The priest is to go outside the camp to examine him. If the skin disease of the afflicted person has healed, the priest shall order that two live clean birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop be brought for the one to be cleansed."

2. Ceremonial Cleansing with Birds:
The priest commands the use of two birds. One bird is killed over fresh water in a clay pot, and the living bird, along with cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop, is dipped in the blood of the slain bird. The priest then sprinkles the blood on the person to be cleansed seven times and pronounces them clean. The living bird is released into the open field, symbolizing the removal of impurity. Leviticus 14:6-7 describes, "He is then to take the live bird and dip it, together with the cedar wood, the scarlet yarn, and the hyssop, into the blood of the bird that was slaughtered over the fresh water. Seven times he shall sprinkle the one to be cleansed of the skin disease, pronounce him clean, and release the live bird into the open field."

3. Washing and Shaving:
The cleansed individual must wash their clothes, shave off all their hair, and bathe in water. This act signifies a complete renewal and purification. Leviticus 14:8 states, "The one being cleansed must then wash his clothes, shave off all his hair, and bathe with water, and he will be clean. Afterward, he may enter the camp, but he must remain outside his tent for seven days."

4. Further Rituals on the Eighth Day:
On the eighth day, additional sacrifices are required, including two male lambs, one ewe lamb, fine flour mixed with oil, and a log of oil. These offerings are presented before the LORD at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. The priest makes atonement for the cleansed person through a series of offerings, including a guilt offering, sin offering, and burnt offering. Leviticus 14:10-11 explains, "On the eighth day he must bring two unblemished male lambs, an unblemished year-old ewe lamb, three-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering, and one log of oil. The priest who cleanses him shall present the man to be cleansed, along with these offerings, before the LORD at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting."

Symbolism and Theological Significance:
The ablution for defilement of lepers is rich in symbolism, reflecting themes of death and resurrection, sin and atonement, and the restoration of fellowship with God and community. The use of blood, water, and the release of the living bird highlight the transition from impurity to purity, from isolation to inclusion. This ritual underscores the holiness required by God and the comprehensive nature of His provision for cleansing and restoration.

New Testament Reflection:
In the New Testament, Jesus' healing of lepers, such as in Luke 17:11-19, echoes the Old Testament rituals but also transcends them, emphasizing His authority and compassion. Jesus instructs the healed lepers to show themselves to the priests, affirming the Law while also demonstrating the inbreaking of the Kingdom of God, where ultimate cleansing and restoration are found in Him.Leviticus 14:8,9
And he that is to be cleansed shall wash his clothes, and shave off all his hair, and wash himself in water, that he may be clean: and after that he shall come into the camp, and shall tarry abroad out of his tent seven days.
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