Leviticus 14:28

The priest shall also put some of the oil in his palm on the right earlobe of the one to be cleansed, on the thumb of his right hand, and on the big toe of his right foot--on the same places as the blood of the guilt offering.

Study Bible

The priest shall also put some of the oil in his palm
In the ancient Israelite sacrificial system, oil often symbolized the Holy Spirit and anointing. The priest's role in applying the oil signifies mediation between God and the individual, emphasizing the priest's duty to facilitate spiritual cleansing and restoration. The use of oil in rituals underscores its importance in consecration and healing, as seen in other scriptures like Exodus 30:25-30, where oil is used to anoint the tabernacle and its furnishings.

on the right earlobe of the one to be cleansed
The right side in biblical symbolism often represents strength and favor. Anointing the right earlobe signifies the cleansing of hearing, suggesting that the individual is now able to hear and obey God's commandments. This act parallels the consecration of priests in Exodus 29:20, indicating a restored relationship with God and readiness to listen to His voice.

on the thumb of his right hand
The thumb represents action and service. Anointing the right thumb symbolizes the cleansing and dedication of one's actions to God. This act implies that the individual is now prepared to perform righteous deeds and serve God faithfully, aligning with the biblical principle that faith is demonstrated through works (James 2:17).

and on the big toe of his right foot
The big toe is crucial for balance and movement, symbolizing one's walk and direction in life. Anointing the right big toe signifies the cleansing and sanctification of one's path, ensuring that the individual walks in the ways of the Lord. This act reflects the biblical theme of walking in righteousness, as seen in Psalm 1:1-2.

on the same places as the blood of the guilt offering
The application of oil on the same places as the blood highlights the connection between atonement and sanctification. The blood of the guilt offering represents the removal of sin and guilt, while the oil signifies the presence and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. This dual application points to the comprehensive nature of God's redemption, foreshadowing the work of Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice cleanses and sanctifies believers (Hebrews 9:14).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
A mediator between God and the people, responsible for performing the cleansing rituals.

2. The One to be Cleansed
An individual who has been healed from a skin disease, seeking ritual purification to re-enter the community.

3. The Right Ear, Thumb, and Big Toe
Specific body parts symbolically anointed to signify complete cleansing and dedication to God.

4. The Guilt Offering
A sacrificial offering made to atone for sin and restore the individual to a state of ritual purity.

5. The Oil and Blood
Elements used in the ritual, symbolizing the Holy Spirit (oil) and atonement (blood).

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Anointing
The anointing of the ear, thumb, and toe represents the need for our hearing, actions, and walk to be consecrated to God. This calls us to live lives that are attentive to God's voice, active in His service, and walking in His ways.

Holistic Cleansing
The ritual emphasizes that cleansing and dedication to God involve the whole person. In our spiritual lives, we must seek comprehensive purity and dedication, not just in isolated areas.

Role of the Priest
The priest's role as a mediator foreshadows Christ's ultimate priesthood. Just as the priest facilitated cleansing, Jesus facilitates our spiritual cleansing and reconciliation with God.

Importance of Rituals
While the specific rituals of Leviticus are not practiced today, they remind us of the importance of intentional acts of worship and dedication in our spiritual lives.

Integration of Blood and Oil
The combination of blood and oil in the ritual signifies the necessity of both atonement and the Holy Spirit's work in our lives. We are called to embrace both forgiveness through Christ's sacrifice and empowerment through the Spirit.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the anointing of the ear, thumb, and toe in Leviticus 14:28 relate to our daily walk with God today?

2. In what ways does the role of the priest in Leviticus point to the work of Jesus as our High Priest?

3. How can we apply the concept of holistic cleansing in our spiritual lives, ensuring that all aspects are dedicated to God?

4. What are some modern "rituals" or practices that can help us maintain a sense of spiritual purity and dedication?

5. How do the elements of blood and oil in the cleansing ritual reflect the dual aspects of atonement and empowerment in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29:20
The consecration of Aaron and his sons, where blood is applied to the same parts of the body, signifying dedication to God's service.

Isaiah 61:1
The anointing of the Spirit, which parallels the use of oil in consecration and healing.

Hebrews 9:22
The necessity of blood for purification, connecting the Old Testament rituals to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

1 John 1:7
The cleansing power of Jesus' blood, which purifies us from all sin, reflecting the symbolism in Leviticus.