Numbers 19:17

For the purification of the unclean person, take some of the ashes of the burnt sin offering, put them in a jar, and pour fresh water over them.

Study Bible

For the purification of the unclean person
In the context of ancient Israel, ceremonial cleanliness was crucial for maintaining a relationship with God and participating in community worship. The unclean person here refers to someone who has come into contact with a dead body, which was considered a major source of impurity. This purification process underscores the importance of holiness and separation from death, which is seen as the ultimate consequence of sin. The concept of purification is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called to be cleansed from sin through the blood of Christ (1 John 1:7).

take some of the ashes of the burnt sin offering
The ashes mentioned are from a red heifer, a unique sacrifice described earlier in Numbers 19. The red heifer was to be without blemish and never yoked, symbolizing purity and submission. The burning of the heifer outside the camp and the collection of its ashes signify the removal of sin and impurity. This ritual prefigures Christ's sacrifice, as He was crucified outside the city (Hebrews 13:12), and His atoning work cleanses believers from sin.

put them in a jar
The use of a jar to contain the ashes indicates the need for careful handling and preservation of the elements used in the purification process. This reflects the sacredness of the ritual and the seriousness with which God views sin and its consequences. The jar serves as a vessel for the means of purification, much like how the body of Christ was the vessel for the ultimate sacrifice.

and pour fresh water over them
Fresh water, or "living water," symbolizes life, renewal, and the Holy Spirit in biblical literature. The combination of ashes and water creates a purification mixture that cleanses the unclean person. This act points to the cleansing power of the Holy Spirit, who renews and purifies believers (John 7:38-39). The use of water in this ritual also foreshadows Christian baptism, which signifies the washing away of sin and the believer's new life in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The people of God who received the laws and instructions for purification.

2. Moses and Aaron
Leaders of the Israelites who conveyed God's laws and instructions.

3. The Red Heifer
A special sacrificial animal whose ashes were used for purification.

4. The Tabernacle
The dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where sacrifices and rituals were performed.

5. The Unclean Person
An individual who had become ceremonially unclean and required purification.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Purity
God values both physical and spiritual purity. The ritual of using ashes and water symbolizes the need for cleansing from sin and impurity.

Symbolism of Water and Ashes
The combination of ashes and fresh water represents the cleansing power of God. Just as water cleanses physically, God's provision cleanses spiritually.

Foreshadowing Christ's Sacrifice
The ritual points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, whose blood purifies us from all sin, fulfilling the law's requirements.

Community Responsibility
The community played a role in maintaining purity, reflecting the importance of accountability and support in the body of Christ.

Continuous Need for Cleansing
Just as the Israelites needed regular purification, believers must continually seek spiritual cleansing through repentance and faith in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the ritual of purification in Numbers 19:17 reflect God's holiness and the need for purity among His people?

2. In what ways does the use of ashes and water in the purification process point to the work of Jesus Christ?

3. How can we apply the principles of community responsibility and accountability in maintaining spiritual purity today?

4. What are some practical ways we can seek spiritual cleansing and renewal in our daily lives?

5. How do the purification rituals in the Old Testament enhance our understanding of the New Testament teachings on sin and redemption?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 14
Discusses the purification process for leprosy, showing the importance of ceremonial cleanliness.

Hebrews 9
Explains how the Old Testament purification rituals foreshadowed the ultimate purification through Christ's sacrifice.

Psalm 51
David's plea for purification and cleansing from sin, highlighting the spiritual aspect of purity.

John 4
Jesus speaks of living water, symbolizing spiritual cleansing and eternal life.

1 John 1
Emphasizes the cleansing power of Jesus' blood for sin, connecting to the theme of purification.