Leviticus 14:47
And he that lieth in the house shall wash his clothes; and he that eateth in the house shall wash his clothes.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Elaborate cleansing ritual for healed lepers, involving birds, blood, and multiple offerings, symbolizing restoration. Chapters 11-15 address ritual purity, teaching Israel to distinguish clean from unclean. These laws served multiple purposes: promoting health, teaching spiritual lessons about sin's defilement, and separating Israel from pagan practices. Archaeological evidence shows Canaanite worship involved practices Israel's laws explicitly prohibited. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. Archaeological discoveries at sites like Ugarit reveal Canaanite religious practices Israel's laws explicitly rejected, confirming the Bible's historical reliability and the distinctiveness of Israelite worship.
Questions for Reflection
- What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
- How does this verse help you understand both God's justice and His mercy in salvation?
- How does this verse point to Christ, and how does that deepen your faith and gratitude?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And he that lieth in the house shall wash his clothes; and he that eateth in the house shall wash his clothes.
This verse falls within the section on Cleansing from Skin Diseases. Elaborate cleansing ritual for healed lepers, involving birds, blood, and multiple offerings, symbolizing restoration.
Hebrews 9-10 explains how Christ's once-for-all sacrifice supersedes the repeated Levitical offerings, providing permanent cleansing from sin.