“Whatsoever shall touch the flesh thereof shall be holy: and when there is sprinkled of the blood thereof upon any garment, thou shalt wash that whereon it was sprinkled in the holy place.”
Context: Leviticus is the third book of the Bible and is part of the Torah, specifically the section known as the Law or Pentateuch. It contains laws and regulations given by God to the Israelites through Moses. Leviticus covers various topics, including offerings, sacrifices, rituals, and the priesthood. The verse in question falls within a section that discusses the consecration of the priests and the procedures for offering sacrifices.
Holiness of the Flesh: In Leviticus 6:27, it is stated that anything or anyone that touches the flesh of the burnt offering becomes holy. The burnt offering was a significant sacrifice offered to God on the altar. This verse emphasizes the principle of holiness and the concept of consecration through contact with holy objects. Touching the flesh of the burnt offering symbolized participation in the sanctity and dedication of the offering.
Sprinkling of Blood: The second part of the verse deals with the procedure for handling garments that come into contact with the blood of the burnt offering. If any blood from the offering was accidentally splattered onto a garment, it was considered sacred and required specific actions. The garment had to be washed in the holy place, indicating that it needed to be purified in a designated area of the tabernacle or temple. This action reinforced the sanctity and respect for the blood used in the sacrificial rituals.
Symbolism and Spiritual Significance:
Leviticus 6:27 teaches several important principles that have spiritual significance:
- Holiness and Consecration: The verse highlights the concept of holiness, which is a central theme in the Bible. By touching the flesh of the burnt offering, the person or object became holy. This demonstrates that contact with holy things can confer holiness. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of consecration and separation from anything unclean or worldly. As Christians, we are called to live holy lives, set apart for God’s purposes.
- Cleansing through Blood: The sprinkling of blood on a garment emphasizes the purifying power of blood. Blood is frequently associated with sacrifice and atonement throughout the Bible. In the Old Testament, the blood of the sacrifices foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. His shed blood provides cleansing and forgiveness of sins for all who believe in Him. The requirement to wash the garment signifies the need for cleansing from sin through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
- The Role of Jesus Christ: The sacrificial system in Leviticus pointed forward to the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the requirements of the Law. He became the ultimate sacrifice for sin, and through His death and resurrection, He made a way for humanity to be reconciled with God. The principles found in Leviticus, including the verse in question, foreshadow the redemptive work of Jesus and the sanctification available through Him.
Application: While Leviticus 6:27 addresses specific rituals and practices from the Old Testament, we can draw spiritual lessons and applications for our lives today as Christians:
- Holiness: As believers, we are called to pursue holiness in our thoughts, actions, and lifestyles. We should strive to be set apart for God’s purposes and separate ourselves from the values and practices of the world.
- Consecration: Just as touching the burnt offering made something or someone holy, our connection with Jesus Christ through faith makes us partakers of His holiness. We are called to consecrate ourselves to God, dedicating our lives to His service.
Cleansing through Jesus’ Blood: The sacrifice of Jesus Christ provides the ultimate cleansing from sin. Through faith in Him, we receive forgiveness and restoration. We should continually seek His cleansing and allow His blood to purify us from all unrighteousness.
Reverence and Respect: The washing of the garment in the holy place signifies the reverence and respect we should have for the things of God. We should approach God and His Word with humility, recognizing His holiness and the significance of His redemptive work.
In summary, Leviticus 6:27 highlights the concepts of holiness, consecration, and cleansing through blood. While the verse pertains to specific practices in the Old Testament, it carries spiritual lessons for us today as we seek to live holy lives and embrace the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for our redemption and sanctification.
