Leviticus 15 - Day 142

Leviticus 15 - Day 142 (link to reading plan)

Scripture: Leviticus 15:1-18

Commentary: This chapter describes uncleanness that resulted from emissions from the male and female reproductive organs. It distinguishes between chronic and abnormal discharges on the one hand and intermittent, normal discharges on the other. Both kinds, however, caused ritual uncleanness. Here, as throughout these chapters on various kinds of uncleanness, we must keep in mind that uncleanness was not in itself a matter of sin, though it could be associated with sinful acts. This chapter includes forms of uncleanness that arose from perfectly legitimate actions or natural functions. Uncleanness simply prevented a person from participating in worship. Except in cases of serious skin disease (ch. 13) it did not unduly isolate a person from the community, but imposed restrictions on his or her physical contacts.

 Wright, C. J. H. (1994). Leviticus. In D. A. Carson, R. T. France, J. A. Motyer, & G. J. Wenham (Eds.), New Bible commentary: 21st century edition (4th ed., p. 142). Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press.

Application: For this particular "uncleanness," the person did not present themselves to the priest but self-monitored their health and abstained from worshipping at the tabernacle.  Thank God that we are encouraged to approach Him directly when we are ceremonially unclean, so He can heal us.

Prayer: Lord, purify my heart, mind and soul.