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Book of Leviticus - Chapter 11 - Verse 39

11:39
And if any beast, of which ye may eat, die; he that toucheth the carcase thereof shall be unclean until the even.

Meaning

According to this verse from the book of Leviticus in the Bible, it states that if any beast that is considered clean for consumption dies, anyone who touches its carcass will become unclean until evening. In the context of the Mosaic Law, cleanliness was extremely important for the Israelites as it symbolized purity and holiness before God. By being unclean, it meant that a person had to undergo a period of separation and cleansing before they could participate in religious activities or interact with others. This regulation was put in place to teach the Israelites about the significance of obedience to God's commands and the importance of purity in their daily lives. It was a way for them to demonstrate their reverence for God and uphold the standards of holiness set by Him. The verse serves as a reminder for the Israelites to be mindful of what they consume and to handle animals that die with care, as their actions could affect their spiritual standing before God.

Theological Overview

In this verse from Leviticus 11:39, the theological interpretation focuses on the concept of cleanliness and holiness emphasized in the Old Testament laws. The passage outlines specific regulations regarding the consumption of certain animals and the consequences of coming into contact with their carcasses. From a theological perspective, this verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining purity and avoiding contamination in order to remain ceremonially clean before God. In the context of Leviticus, these laws served as a way for the Israelites to distinguish themselves from other nations and demonstrate their obedience to God's commandments. Additionally, this verse highlights the significance of paying attention to even the smallest details of daily life in order to abide by God's standards of holiness and obedience.

American Standard Version

And if any beast, of which ye may eat, die; he that toucheth the carcass thereof shall be unclean until the even.
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