Leviticus 15:14

On the eighth day he is to take two turtledoves or two young pigeons, come before the LORD at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, and give them to the priest.

Study Bible

On the eighth day
The eighth day signifies a new beginning in biblical numerology, often associated with purification and consecration. This is seen in the context of circumcision (Genesis 17:12) and the dedication of the tabernacle (Leviticus 9:1). The number eight symbolizes a fresh start after a complete cycle, reflecting the renewal and restoration process after a period of uncleanness.

he is to take two turtledoves or two young pigeons
These birds were commonly used in sacrificial offerings due to their availability and affordability, making them accessible to those who could not afford larger animals like lambs or goats (Leviticus 5:7). This provision underscores God's inclusivity and compassion, allowing all individuals, regardless of economic status, to participate in the sacrificial system. The use of birds also points to the future sacrifice of Christ, who would offer Himself as a sacrifice for all, regardless of social standing.

come before the LORD
This phrase indicates the act of approaching God in worship and submission, acknowledging His holiness and the need for atonement. It reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people, where they are invited to draw near to Him through prescribed means. This foreshadows the New Testament teaching that believers can now come boldly before the throne of grace through Jesus Christ (Hebrews 4:16).

at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, or Tabernacle, was the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. It served as a tangible reminder of God's desire to dwell with His people. The entrance signifies the threshold between the common and the holy, where individuals could present their offerings and seek reconciliation with God. This anticipates the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who is the true Tabernacle (John 1:14) and the way to the Father (John 14:6).

and give them to the priest
The priest acted as a mediator between God and the people, facilitating the sacrificial process and ensuring that the offerings were made according to divine instructions. This role prefigures Jesus Christ, our High Priest, who mediates the new covenant and offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin (Hebrews 9:11-14). The priest's involvement underscores the necessity of an intermediary in the process of atonement and purification.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man with a Discharge
This passage refers to a man who has been cleansed from a bodily discharge, a condition that rendered him ceremonially unclean according to Levitical law.

2. The LORD
The God of Israel, who established the laws and rituals for His people to follow, emphasizing holiness and purity.

3. The Tent of Meeting
Also known as the Tabernacle, this was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where sacrifices and offerings were made.

4. The Priest
A mediator between God and the people, responsible for performing the rituals and sacrifices as prescribed by the law.

5. Turtledoves or Young Pigeons
These birds were often used in sacrificial offerings, especially for those who could not afford larger animals, symbolizing purity and atonement.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Purity
The laws in Leviticus emphasize the importance of holiness and purity in the life of a believer. We are called to live lives that are set apart and pleasing to God.

Approach to God
The requirement to come before the LORD at the Tent of Meeting signifies the importance of approaching God with reverence and in accordance with His commands.

Provision for All
The allowance for turtledoves or pigeons shows God's provision for all people, regardless of their economic status, to participate in worship and atonement.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The sacrificial system points to the need for atonement and foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who cleanses us from all sin.

Community and Responsibility
The role of the priest highlights the community's responsibility to support one another in maintaining purity and holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement for a sacrifice in Leviticus 15:14 reflect the seriousness of sin and impurity in the eyes of God?

2. In what ways does the provision for turtledoves or pigeons demonstrate God's inclusivity and care for all individuals, regardless of their social or economic status?

3. How can we apply the principles of holiness and purity from Leviticus 15:14 to our daily lives as Christians today?

4. What are the similarities and differences between the Old Testament sacrificial system and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ as described in the New Testament?

5. How can the role of the priest in Leviticus 15:14 inspire us to support and encourage one another in our spiritual journeys within the church community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 12:8
This verse also mentions the use of turtledoves or pigeons for purification, highlighting the provision for those who are less affluent.

Luke 2:24
Mary and Joseph offer turtledoves or pigeons at the temple, connecting the Old Testament purification laws to the New Testament account.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Discusses the limitations of the old sacrificial system and points to the ultimate purification through Christ's sacrifice.