Leviticus 14:49

He is to take two birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop to purify the house;

Study Bible

He is to take two birds
In the purification rituals of Leviticus, birds are often used as a symbol of innocence and purity. The use of two birds here parallels the ritual for cleansing a person from leprosy earlier in the chapter. One bird is sacrificed, symbolizing atonement, while the other is released, representing freedom and new life. This duality can be seen as a type of Christ's death and resurrection, where His sacrifice brings atonement and His resurrection offers new life.

cedar wood
Cedar wood is known for its durability and pleasant aroma, often used in construction and religious rituals. In biblical symbolism, cedar represents strength and incorruptibility. The use of cedar wood in purification rituals may signify the enduring nature of God's covenant and the strength of His cleansing power. Cedar was also used in the construction of the Temple, linking it to holiness and divine presence.

scarlet yarn
Scarlet yarn, or thread, is frequently associated with sacrifice and redemption in the Bible. The color scarlet is reminiscent of blood, which is central to the atonement process. This element in the ritual may point to the blood of Christ, which cleanses believers from sin. The scarlet thread is also a reminder of the story of Rahab, whose faith and the scarlet cord saved her and her family, symbolizing redemption and deliverance.

and hyssop
Hyssop is a plant used in various purification rites in the Old Testament. It is mentioned in the Passover account, where it was used to apply the blood of the lamb to the doorposts, signifying protection and deliverance. In Psalm 51, David asks to be cleansed with hyssop, indicating its association with spiritual purification. In the New Testament, hyssop is present at the crucifixion of Jesus, further connecting it to themes of sacrifice and cleansing.

to purify the house
The purification of a house in Leviticus 14 is part of the broader theme of holiness and cleanliness in the community of Israel. Just as individuals needed to be cleansed from impurity, so did their dwellings. This reflects the idea that God's holiness permeates all aspects of life, requiring purity in both personal and communal spaces. The ritual underscores the importance of maintaining a holy environment, foreshadowing the New Testament teaching that believers are temples of the Holy Spirit, called to live in purity and holiness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The priest is responsible for performing the purification rituals, acting as a mediator between God and the people.

2. House
Represents the dwelling place of the Israelites, which can become unclean and require purification.

3. Two Birds
Used in the purification ritual, symbolizing cleansing and atonement.

4. Cedar Wood
A durable and aromatic wood, symbolizing strength and purification.

5. Scarlet Yarn
Represents the color of blood, symbolizing sacrifice and cleansing.

6. Hyssop
A plant used for sprinkling in purification rites, symbolizing cleansing and purification.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Cleansing
The elements used in the purification ritual (birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, hyssop) symbolize the comprehensive nature of God's cleansing. Just as these elements were used to purify a physical space, God desires to purify our hearts and lives.

Role of the Priest
The priest's role in the purification process highlights the need for a mediator. In the New Testament, Jesus is our High Priest, mediating on our behalf and providing ultimate purification through His sacrifice.

Importance of Obedience
The detailed instructions for purification underscore the importance of obedience to God's commands. In our lives, we are called to follow God's instructions for living a holy life.

Spiritual Cleansing
Just as the house required physical cleansing, we require spiritual cleansing from sin. This is achieved through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

Community and Holiness
The purification of a house reflects the communal aspect of holiness. Our personal and communal spaces should reflect God's holiness and purity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 14:49 foreshadow the role of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. What do the elements used in the purification ritual (birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, hyssop) teach us about the nature of God's cleansing?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience seen in the purification rituals to our daily walk with God?

4. In what ways does the concept of spiritual cleansing in Leviticus 14:49 relate to the New Testament teachings on repentance and forgiveness?

5. How can we ensure that our personal and communal spaces reflect the holiness and purity that God desires?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 14:4-7
Provides context for the use of birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop in purification rituals, emphasizing the process of cleansing from leprosy.

Psalm 51:7
David's plea for purification with hyssop, connecting the physical act of cleansing with spiritual purification.

Hebrews 9:19-22
Discusses the use of blood and hyssop in the Old Testament purification rituals, pointing to the ultimate cleansing through Christ's sacrifice.