Leviticus 7:21

If one touches anything unclean, whether human uncleanness, an unclean animal, or any unclean, detestable thing, and then eats any of the meat of the peace offering that belongs to the LORD, that person must be cut off from his people."

Study Bible

If anyone touches anything unclean
The phrase "touches anything unclean" refers to the act of coming into contact with something that is ritually impure according to the Mosaic Law. The Hebrew word for "unclean" is "טָמֵא" (tamei), which signifies a state of impurity that separates an individual from the holiness required to approach God. This concept underscores the importance of purity in maintaining a relationship with God and the community. In a broader sense, it serves as a reminder of the pervasive nature of sin and the need for vigilance in one's spiritual life.

whether human uncleanness
"Human uncleanness" includes various conditions outlined in Levitical law, such as skin diseases, bodily discharges, or contact with a corpse. These conditions, while often natural and unavoidable, symbolize the fallen state of humanity and the need for divine intervention and cleansing. The emphasis on human uncleanness highlights the inherent imperfection of mankind and the necessity of God's grace for restoration and sanctification.

or an unclean animal
The mention of "an unclean animal" refers to animals that were deemed impure for consumption or contact, as detailed in Leviticus 11. The distinction between clean and unclean animals served to set the Israelites apart from other nations and to instill a sense of discipline and obedience. This separation also foreshadows the ultimate separation between sin and holiness, pointing to the need for discernment in the believer's life.

or any unclean creature that moves along the ground
This phrase expands the scope of uncleanness to include "any unclean creature that moves along the ground," such as reptiles and insects. The Hebrew term "שֶׁרֶץ" (sheretz) encompasses a variety of small creatures that were considered impure. This comprehensive view of uncleanness serves as a metaphor for the pervasive nature of sin, which can infiltrate every aspect of life if not guarded against.

and then eats any of the meat of the peace offering belonging to the LORD
The "peace offering" was a voluntary sacrifice made to express gratitude and fellowship with God. Eating the meat of this offering while in a state of uncleanness was a serious violation, as it desecrated what was holy and dedicated to the LORD. This act symbolizes the importance of approaching God with reverence and purity, recognizing the sacredness of what is offered to Him.

that person must be cut off from his people
The consequence of being "cut off from his people" indicates a severe penalty, often interpreted as excommunication or even death. This underscores the gravity of defiling what is holy and the necessity of maintaining communal purity. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of living in accordance with God's commandments. In a spiritual sense, it calls believers to a life of holiness, set apart for God's purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The original audience of the Levitical laws, called to be a holy nation set apart for God.

2. The Priests
Mediators between God and the people, responsible for teaching and enforcing the laws of cleanliness and offerings.

3. The Peace Offering
A type of sacrifice in the Levitical system symbolizing fellowship and thanksgiving to God.

4. Unclean Creatures
Animals or swarming creatures considered impure according to Levitical law, which could defile a person.

5. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who established these laws to maintain holiness among His people.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
God calls His people to be distinct and separate from impurity. This separation is not just physical but spiritual, reflecting a heart dedicated to God.

The Seriousness of Sin
The consequence of being "cut off" underscores the gravity of sin and impurity. It serves as a reminder of the need for repentance and the seriousness of approaching God with reverence.

The Role of the Law
The law served as a tutor to lead us to Christ, highlighting our need for a Savior who can cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Community Responsibility
The communal aspect of being "cut off" shows that individual actions affect the whole community. Believers are called to uphold purity within the body of Christ.

Christ's Fulfillment of the Law
Jesus, our ultimate peace offering, fulfills the law's requirements, allowing us to approach God with confidence through His righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of cleanliness in Leviticus 7:21 relate to our spiritual lives today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are approaching God with the purity and reverence He requires?

3. How does understanding the Old Testament laws enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice?

4. What are some modern-day "unclean" influences that believers should be cautious of, and how can we guard against them?

5. How can the church community support one another in maintaining spiritual purity and holiness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11
Provides detailed laws on clean and unclean animals, offering context to the regulations in Leviticus 7:21.

Numbers 19
Discusses purification from uncleanness, emphasizing the importance of ritual purity.

1 Corinthians 11
Paul warns against partaking in the Lord's Supper in an unworthy manner, paralleling the seriousness of approaching holy things with purity.

Isaiah 52
Calls for the people to be clean and separate from unclean things, reflecting the holiness God desires.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the ultimate purification through Christ, who fulfills the law and offers a new way to approach God.