Old Testament
Leviticus 15:17
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Any clothing or leather that the semen gets on must be washed with water and will be unclean until evening.
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And every garment, and every skin, whereon is the seed of copulation, shall be washed with water, and be unclean until the even.
What Leviticus 15:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 15:17, the text addresses the issue of ritual cleanliness in relation to bodily fluids, specifically semen. It states that any clothing or leather that comes into contact with semen must be washed with water. This washing is necessary because the item is considered unclean until evening. The emphasis on cleanliness reflects the broader theme of purity in the Israelite community, where certain bodily functions were seen as making a person or object ritually impure. The requirement to wash and wait until evening before the item is considered clean again highlights the importance of maintaining a state of purity in daily life. This law served to remind the Israelites of their need for holiness and the significance of following God's commandments in all aspects of life, including personal hygiene and community standards.
How to apply Leviticus 15:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to consider the importance of cleanliness and purity in our lives. While the specific laws may not apply today, the underlying principle of maintaining a clean and respectful environment is still relevant. It reminds us to be mindful of our actions and their impact on our spiritual and communal well-being.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Keep studying Leviticus 15:17
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 15:17 mean?
Leviticus 15:17 addresses ritual cleanliness regarding bodily fluids, specifically stating that clothing or leather that comes into contact with semen must be washed with water and is considered unclean until evening.
What is the significance of washing in Leviticus 15:17?
The washing mentioned in Leviticus 15:17 is significant as it reflects the importance of maintaining ritual purity in the Israelite community, emphasizing the need for cleanliness in daily life.
What does 'unclean until evening' mean in Leviticus 15:17?
'Unclean until evening' in Leviticus 15:17 means that the item remains ritually impure until the end of the day, after which it can be considered clean again following the washing.
Why is semen mentioned in Leviticus 15:17?
Semen is mentioned in Leviticus 15:17 as part of the laws concerning bodily fluids, which were seen as making a person or object ritually impure, highlighting the broader theme of purity in the community.
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