In the context of biblical law and tradition, the concept of being declared "clean" holds significant theological and social implications. The term "clean" is often associated with ritual purity, which is essential for participation in the religious and communal life of Israel. The process and criteria for being declared clean are primarily outlined in the Old Testament, particularly in the books of Leviticus and Numbers.

Old Testament Context

The laws concerning cleanliness and uncleanness are extensively detailed in the book of Leviticus. These laws cover a wide range of circumstances, including dietary restrictions, skin diseases, bodily discharges, and contact with dead bodies. The primary purpose of these laws was to maintain the holiness of the Israelite community, as God is holy and His people were called to reflect His holiness.

Leviticus 13 and 14 provide detailed instructions on how a person with a skin disease, often translated as "leprosy," could be declared clean. The process involved a priestly examination, a period of isolation, and specific offerings. Leviticus 14:2-3 states, "This is the law of the one afflicted with a skin disease on the day of his cleansing, when he is brought to the priest. The priest is to go outside the camp to examine him, and if the skin disease of the afflicted person has healed."

The declaration of cleanliness was not merely a medical diagnosis but a religious and communal restoration. Once declared clean, the individual could re-enter the community and participate in worship and social activities.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the concept of cleanliness takes on a deeper spiritual meaning. Jesus Christ, through His ministry, challenged the traditional understanding of clean and unclean. He emphasized the importance of inner purity over external rituals. In Mark 7:15 , Jesus teaches, "Nothing that enters a man from the outside can defile him, but what comes out of a man, that is what defiles him."

Jesus' healing of lepers further illustrates His authority over the laws of cleanliness. In Luke 5:12-13 , a man with leprosy approaches Jesus, saying, "Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean." Jesus responds, "I am willing. Be clean!" and immediately the leprosy leaves the man. This act not only restores the man's physical health but also reintegrates him into the community, demonstrating Jesus' power to cleanse both physically and spiritually.

Theological Significance

The declaration of cleanliness in the Bible underscores the holiness required to approach God. In the Old Testament, this was achieved through adherence to the law and priestly mediation. In the New Testament, Jesus fulfills the law, offering a new way to be declared clean through faith in Him. Hebrews 10:22 encourages believers, "Let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and our bodies washed with pure water."

The person declared clean, therefore, is not only restored to physical and communal wholeness but also symbolizes the deeper spiritual cleansing available through Christ. This transformation allows believers to live in a state of holiness, reflecting God's character and participating fully in the life of the Christian community.