The term "polluteth" is an archaic form of the verb "pollute," which appears in various contexts throughout the Bible, often referring to the defilement or corruption of something that is considered sacred or pure. In the biblical narrative, pollution can be physical, moral, or spiritual, and it is frequently associated with sin, idolatry, and disobedience to God's commandments.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the concept of pollution is closely tied to the holiness laws given to the Israelites. These laws were designed to maintain the purity of the people and the land, as well as the sanctity of the worship of Yahweh. Pollution often results from actions that are contrary to God's commands, such as idolatry, sexual immorality, and the shedding of innocent blood.

One of the key passages that addresses the idea of pollution is found in the book of Ezekiel. The prophet Ezekiel speaks against the Israelites for defiling the land with their idolatrous practices. In Ezekiel 20:43, the Lord declares, "There you will remember your ways and all your deeds by which you have defiled yourselves, and you will loathe yourselves for all the evils you have done." Here, the pollution is both moral and spiritual, as the people have turned away from God to worship idols.

The book of Leviticus also addresses the issue of pollution, particularly in relation to the tabernacle and the sacrificial system. Leviticus 18:28 warns, "If you defile the land, it will vomit you out as it spewed out the nations before you." This verse underscores the seriousness with which God views the pollution of the land through sinful practices.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the concept of pollution is expanded to include the defilement of the heart and mind. Jesus Christ emphasizes that true defilement comes not from external sources but from within a person. In Mark 7:20-23, Jesus states, "What comes out of a man, that is what defiles him. For from within the hearts of men come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, debauchery, envy, slander, arrogance, and folly. All these evils come from within, and these are what defile a man."

The Apostle Paul also addresses the issue of pollution in his letters, particularly in relation to the purity of the church and the believer's conduct. In 2 Corinthians 7:1, Paul exhorts the believers, "Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that defiles body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." Here, the call is to avoid anything that would pollute one's spiritual life and to pursue holiness.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the concept of pollution in the Bible highlights the importance of holiness and the need for God's people to remain separate from sin and corruption. The repeated warnings against pollution serve as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the need for repentance and purification. The sacrificial system in the Old Testament and the atoning work of Christ in the New Testament both address the problem of pollution, providing a means for cleansing and restoration.

In summary, "polluteth" in the biblical context refers to the defilement of what is sacred, whether it be the land, the temple, or the human heart. It underscores the gravity of sin and the necessity of maintaining purity in accordance with God's standards.

the Use of Humiliation
... It polluteth rather than polisheth; and, under pretense of laudable ornaments,
dishonoreth our sermons with childish gauds: as if a prince were to be decked in ...
//christianbookshelf.org/baxter/the reformed pastor/section 1 - the use.htm

John Bunyan on the Terms of Communion and Fellowship of Christians ...
... are in the midst of her. And no marvel: for, (1.) Mixed communion polluteth
the ordinances of God. Say to the rebels, saith the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/john bunyan on the terms.htm

The Saints' Privilege and Profit;
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the saints privilege and profit.htm

Polluteth (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Polluteth (2 Occurrences). Leviticus 21:9 And a
daughter of any priest when she polluteth herself by going ...
/p/polluteth.htm - 7k

Polluting (8 Occurrences)
... (YLT). Leviticus 21:9 And a daughter of any priest when she polluteth herself by
going a-whoring -- her father she is polluting; with fire she is burnt. (YLT). ...
/p/polluting.htm - 9k

Pollutes (1 Occurrence)

/p/pollutes.htm - 6k

Bloodshed (43 Occurrences)
... Numbers 35:33 So ye shall not pollute the land wherein ye are; for blood, it polluteth
the land; and no expiation can be made for the land for the blood that ...
/b/bloodshed.htm - 19k

A-whoring (35 Occurrences)
... (YLT). Leviticus 21:9 And a daughter of any priest when she polluteth herself by
going a-whoring -- her father she is polluting; with fire she is burnt. (YLT). ...
/a/a-whoring.htm - 17k

Atonement (112 Occurrences)

/a/atonement.htm - 101k

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