Leviticus 17:16 - But if he doesn’t wash them, or bathe his flesh, then he shall bear his iniquity.’”

Generated Verse: Leviticus 17:16

What does "Leviticus 17:16" mean?


Leviticus 17:16 states: "But if he doesn’t wash them, or bathe his flesh, then he shall bear his iniquity."

This verse refers to the handling of the remains of animals sacrificed as peace offerings, specifically regarding foreigners (aliens) living among the Israelites. If a foreigner ate the flesh of an animal that had died naturally or been torn by wild animals, they were considered unclean.

Here's a breakdown of the verse's meaning:

"But if he doesn’t wash them...": This refers to washing the clothes of the person who has eaten the unclean animal. Washing was a symbol of purification.
"...or bathe his flesh...": This refers to bathing the person's body (flesh) as another act of purification.
"...then he shall bear his iniquity": This is the consequence for disobedience. "Bearing his iniquity" means that the person would be held accountable for their sin. They would suffer the consequences of their uncleanness, which could include social ostracization, ritual impurity, or, in some cases, divine punishment.

In essence, this verse emphasizes the importance of ritual purity and the consequences of neglecting prescribed cleansing rituals after coming into contact with uncleanness. The washing and bathing were not just about physical cleanliness, but about spiritual cleansing and restoration to a state acceptable before God and the community. Failing to follow these commands meant remaining in a state of uncleanness, which carried serious spiritual repercussions.

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