Numbers 31:20

And purify every garment and leather good, everything made of goat's hair, and every article of wood."

Study Bible

And purify every garment
In the context of Numbers 31, the Israelites had just returned from a battle against the Midianites. The command to purify garments reflects the broader biblical principle of ritual cleanliness, which was essential for maintaining holiness among God's people. Garments often symbolize one's status and identity in Scripture, and their purification signifies the removal of defilement. This practice is echoed in Leviticus 11-15, where various laws about cleanliness are detailed. The purification process underscores the need for spiritual and physical purity before God.

and leather good
Leather goods, like garments, were common in ancient Israel and used for various purposes, including clothing, tents, and containers. The requirement to purify leather items indicates the comprehensive nature of the cleansing process. Leather, being a durable material, was valuable and often used in everyday life. This command highlights the importance of ensuring that all aspects of life, even the most mundane, are consecrated to God. The emphasis on purification can be seen as a type of Christ, who purifies believers from sin (Hebrews 9:13-14).

everything made of goat’s hair
Goat's hair was a common material used in the construction of tents and other items in the ancient Near East. It was known for its durability and was often used by nomadic peoples, including the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. The inclusion of goat's hair items in the purification process reflects the thoroughness required in maintaining ritual purity. This can be connected to the broader biblical theme of God dwelling among His people, as the tabernacle itself was made with curtains of goat's hair (Exodus 26:7).

and every article of wood.
Wooden articles were essential in daily life for the Israelites, used for tools, utensils, and construction. The command to purify wooden items emphasizes the need for holiness in all areas of life. Wood is often used symbolically in Scripture, such as in the construction of the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:10). The purification of wood can be seen as a reminder of the sanctity required in approaching God, who is holy. This reflects the broader biblical narrative of God’s desire for His people to be set apart and pure, as seen in 1 Peter 1:15-16.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is conveying God's commands regarding purification after the battle with the Midianites.

2. Israelites
The people of God who are receiving instructions on how to purify themselves and their belongings after the conflict.

3. Midianites
The people defeated by the Israelites, whose possessions are now subject to purification.

4. Purification Process
The ritual cleansing required for garments and articles made of leather, goat hair, or wood, emphasizing the need for holiness.

5. Camp of Israel
The place where the Israelites reside and where the purification process is to be carried out to maintain the camp's sanctity.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Purity
God calls His people to be holy and set apart, which includes both physical and spiritual purity.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' adherence to purification laws demonstrates the importance of obedience in maintaining a relationship with God.

Symbolism of Cleansing
The physical act of cleansing garments and items symbolizes the deeper need for spiritual cleansing from sin.

Community Responsibility
The purification process underscores the collective responsibility of the community to uphold God's standards.

Application to Modern Life
Believers today are called to examine their lives and remove anything that hinders their walk with God, seeking spiritual purity through Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to purify garments and items in Numbers 31:20 reflect God's character and His expectations for His people?

2. In what ways can the purification process described in Numbers 31:20 be seen as a foreshadowing of the spiritual cleansing available through Jesus Christ?

3. How do the purification laws in Numbers relate to the concept of holiness in the New Testament, and how can we apply this to our daily lives?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to "purify" our lives today, both physically and spiritually, in light of this passage?

5. How does understanding the historical and cultural context of Numbers 31:20 enhance our appreciation of God's instructions for His people?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11
Discusses the laws of cleanliness and uncleanliness, providing a broader context for the purification laws in Numbers.

Hebrews 9
Explains the concept of purification and cleansing in the New Testament, drawing parallels to the Old Testament practices.

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

1 John 1:9
Speaks about the spiritual cleansing available through confession and forgiveness in Christ.

2 Corinthians 7:1
Encourages believers to purify themselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit.