Leviticus 15:6

Whoever sits on furniture on which the man with the discharge was sitting must wash his clothes and bathe with water, and he will be unclean until evening.

Study Bible

Whoever sits on furniture on which the man with the discharge was sitting
This phrase addresses the transmission of ritual impurity through contact with objects. In ancient Israel, purity laws were central to maintaining holiness and community health. The discharge likely refers to a medical condition, possibly a chronic illness, which rendered a person ceremonially unclean. The furniture, as an extension of the person, also becomes unclean. This reflects the broader biblical principle that impurity can spread through contact, emphasizing the need for separation and purification.

must wash his clothes and bathe with water
Washing clothes and bathing were common purification rituals in the Old Testament, symbolizing the removal of impurity. Water is often used in Scripture as a symbol of cleansing and renewal (e.g., Psalm 51:7, Ezekiel 36:25). This act of washing signifies a return to a state of ritual purity, necessary for participation in communal worship and activities. The emphasis on physical cleanliness also underscores the importance of spiritual purity.

and he will be unclean until evening
The designation of being unclean until evening indicates a temporary state of impurity. Evening marks the beginning of a new day in the Hebrew calendar, symbolizing a fresh start and the restoration of purity. This temporal aspect of uncleanness highlights the mercy and grace inherent in the law, allowing for restoration and reintegration into the community. The concept of evening as a time of renewal can be seen in other biblical contexts, such as the creation narrative in Genesis, where each day begins with evening.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man with the Discharge
This refers to an individual experiencing a bodily discharge, which, according to Levitical law, renders him ceremonially unclean.

2. The Person Who Sits
Anyone who comes into contact with objects that the unclean person has touched becomes unclean themselves.

3. Ceremonial Cleansing
The process of washing clothes and bathing to remove ceremonial impurity.

4. Evening
The time by which the person who has become unclean is considered clean again after following the prescribed cleansing rituals.

5. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where maintaining ceremonial purity was essential.

Teaching Points

Understanding Ceremonial Law
Recognize the purpose of these laws in maintaining the holiness of the community and the presence of God among His people.

Symbolism of Purity
Reflect on how physical cleanliness in the Old Testament symbolizes spiritual purity and the need for holiness in our lives.

Community Responsibility
Consider how the laws encouraged personal responsibility and community awareness regarding purity and holiness.

Spiritual Cleansing
Apply the concept of cleansing to our spiritual lives, understanding that through Christ, we are made clean from sin.

Respect for God's Presence
Acknowledge the seriousness of approaching God with reverence and purity, as emphasized in the Old Testament.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of ceremonial uncleanliness in Leviticus 15:6 relate to our understanding of sin and purity today?

2. In what ways do the purification rituals in Leviticus point to the need for spiritual cleansing through Jesus Christ?

3. How can we apply the principles of community responsibility and awareness from Leviticus 15:6 in our church communities today?

4. What are some modern-day practices or habits that might parallel the idea of maintaining purity and holiness in our lives?

5. How does understanding the cultural and religious context of Leviticus 15:6 enhance our appreciation for the work of Christ as described in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11
Discusses various laws of cleanliness and uncleanliness, providing a broader context for understanding the importance of purity in the Israelite community.

Numbers 19
Details the purification process using the water of cleansing, emphasizing the importance of ritual purity.

Mark 5
The account of the woman with the issue of blood highlights the social and religious implications of being ceremonially unclean.

Hebrews 9
Explains how the Old Testament laws of purification foreshadow the ultimate cleansing through Christ's sacrifice.