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Book of Numbers - Chapter 19 - Verse 19

19:19
And the clean person shall sprinkle upon the unclean on the third day, and on the seventh day: and on the seventh day he shall purify himself, and wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and shall be clean at even.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Numbers provides instructions on how to achieve purification from uncleanness. It outlines a specific ritual where a clean person is to sprinkle water on the unclean individual on the third and seventh days. On the seventh day, the unclean person is required to purify himself by washing his clothes, bathing in water, and ultimately becoming clean by evening. This ritual was a crucial part of the ancient Israelites' religious practices, as they believed that physical cleanliness symbolized spiritual purity. By following these strict guidelines, individuals could rid themselves of impurities and reconnect with God. This verse emphasizes the importance of cleanliness, both physically and spiritually, in the religious customs of the Israelites, highlighting the significance of ritualistic practices in ancient cultures.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of the verse where a clean person sprinkles water on the unclean on the third and seventh day, and then purifies himself by washing his clothes and bathing in water, is that it symbolizes the concept of spiritual cleansing and renewal. The act of sprinkling water onto the unclean person represents the purification from sin and impurity. The third and seventh days may signify the idea of completion and perfection in God's timing. By cleansing himself and washing his clothes, the individual is demonstrating a physical manifestation of spiritual renewal and restoration. The ritual of bathing in water further emphasizes the importance of purification and being washed clean from all impurities. In a broader theological context, this verse could be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate cleansing and purification that comes through Christ, who washes away our sins and makes us clean in the eyes of God.

American Standard Version

and the clean person shall sprinkle upon the unclean on the third day, and on the seventh day: and on the seventh day he shall purify him; and he shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and shall be clean at even.
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