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Book of Leviticus - Chapter 15 - Verse 4

15:4
Every bed, whereon he lieth that hath the issue, is unclean: and every thing, whereon he sitteth, shall be unclean.

Meaning

Leviticus 15:4 discusses the purity laws outlined in the Old Testament for those who have bodily discharges. In this verse, the text highlights that any bed or item that comes into contact with an individual suffering from an issue of bodily discharge is considered unclean. This emphasis on cleanliness reflects the cultural and religious beliefs of the time, where ritual purity was of utmost importance. Uncleanliness was not only a physical state but also a spiritual one, which required specific rituals and offerings to attain purity once again. Therefore, the verse serves as a reminder to the ancient Israelites of the need to uphold purity laws and maintain a separation between what is considered clean and unclean in the eyes of God. This verse is a part of the larger framework of rules and regulations detailed in Leviticus, which aimed to guide the Israelites on their journey to spiritual purity and holiness.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the term "issue" refers to a discharge of bodily fluids, specifically relating to a health condition that made a person ceremonially unclean in the Old Testament. This concept was a part of the Levitical laws that governed purity and cleanliness in ancient Jewish society. When someone had an issue or discharge, whether it was a bodily fluid or blood, anything they came into contact with would be considered unclean as well. This was a way for the Israelites to maintain physical and spiritual purity in their community. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of cleanliness and holiness before God. It emphasizes the need for separation from impurity and the importance of following the laws and commandments to maintain purity in the sight of God. The word studies related to this verse would focus on the meaning and implications of terms like "unclean" and "issue" in the context of the ancient Israelite culture and religious practices.

American Standard Version

Every bed whereon he that hath the issue lieth shall be unclean; and everything whereon he sitteth shall be unclean.
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