Leviticus 15:18

If a man lies with a woman and there is an emission of semen, both must bathe with water, and they will remain unclean until evening.

Study Bible

If a man lies with a woman
This phrase refers to the act of sexual intercourse, which is a natural and God-ordained part of marriage. In the context of Leviticus, the focus is on ritual purity rather than moral judgment. The act itself is not sinful but requires purification due to the emission of bodily fluids, which were considered sources of impurity in the Levitical law. This reflects the broader biblical theme of distinguishing between the holy and the common, as seen in Leviticus 10:10.

and there is an emission of semen,
The emission of semen is specifically mentioned as a cause of ritual impurity. In ancient Israel, bodily emissions were often associated with life and death, and thus with purity and impurity. This reflects the understanding that life is sacred and that the processes related to it, such as reproduction, require a state of cleanliness. This concept is echoed in other parts of Leviticus, such as in the laws concerning childbirth (Leviticus 12).

both must bathe with water,
The requirement to bathe with water signifies a ritual cleansing. Water is a common symbol of purification throughout the Bible, representing the removal of impurity and the restoration of a state of cleanliness. This practice prefigures the New Testament concept of baptism, which symbolizes spiritual cleansing and rebirth (John 3:5, Titus 3:5).

and they will remain unclean until evening.
The period of uncleanness lasting until evening indicates a temporary state of impurity. This reflects the cyclical nature of daily life and the renewal that comes with each new day. The evening marks the beginning of a new day in the Jewish calendar, symbolizing a fresh start and the restoration of purity. This concept of renewal is seen in Lamentations 3:22-23, where God's mercies are described as new every morning.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The people to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, as part of their covenant relationship with God.

3. Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where purity laws were especially significant.

4. Ritual Purity
The state of being ceremonially clean, which was necessary for participation in worship and community life.

5. Evening
The time by which ritual impurity would end, marking a new day in the Hebrew calendar.

Teaching Points

Understanding Ritual Purity
The laws in Leviticus highlight the importance of ritual purity in maintaining a relationship with God. While these specific laws are not binding on Christians today, they remind us of the holiness required to approach God.

Symbolism of Cleansing
The act of bathing symbolizes a deeper spiritual cleansing. As Christians, we are called to seek spiritual purity through repentance and faith in Christ.

Temporary vs. Eternal Purity
The temporary nature of uncleanness until evening points to the eternal purity we have in Christ, who cleanses us from all sin.

Respect for the Marriage Covenant
This law underscores the sanctity of the marriage relationship and the need for mutual respect and care within it.

Holistic Approach to Purity
While the focus here is on physical cleanliness, it serves as a reminder that God desires purity in all aspects of our lives—physical, spiritual, and relational.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of ritual purity in Leviticus 15:18 relate to our understanding of holiness today?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of cleansing in this verse be applied to our spiritual lives?

3. How does the temporary nature of uncleanness in Leviticus point to the eternal cleansing we receive through Christ?

4. What can we learn from this passage about the importance of respecting the marriage covenant?

5. How can we apply the principles of purity from Leviticus 15:18 to our daily walk with God, considering New Testament teachings?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:24
This verse speaks of the union between a man and a woman, which is foundational to understanding the context of sexual relations in Leviticus.

1 Corinthians 6:18-20
Paul discusses the importance of honoring God with our bodies, which connects to the theme of purity in Leviticus.

Hebrews 10:22
This verse speaks of drawing near to God with a pure heart, echoing the purification rituals in Leviticus.

Psalm 51:7
David's plea for purification and cleansing, which reflects the spiritual significance of physical cleanliness.

Mark 7:14-23
Jesus teaches about what truly defiles a person, providing a New Testament perspective on purity laws.