Leviticus 15:21

Authorized King James Version

And whosoever toucheth her bed shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and be unclean until the even.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#2
הַנֹּגֵ֖עַ
And whosoever toucheth
properly, to touch, i.e., lay the hand upon (for any purpose; euphemistically, to lie with a woman); by implication, to reach (figuratively, to arrive
#3
בְּמִשְׁכָּבָ֑הּ
her bed
a bed (figuratively, a bier); abstractly, sleep; by euphemism, carnal intercourse
#4
יְכַבֵּ֧ס
shall wash
to trample; hence, to wash (properly, by stamping with the feet), whether literal (including the fulling process) or figurative
#5
בְּגָדָ֛יו
his clothes
a covering, i.e., clothing
#6
וְרָחַ֥ץ
and bathe
to lave (the whole or a part of a thing)
#7
בַּמַּ֖יִם
himself in water
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#8
וְטָמֵ֥א
and be unclean
to be foul, especially in a ceremial or moral sense (contaminated)
#9
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#10
הָעָֽרֶב׃
until the even
dusk

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Study Resources