Old Testament
Leviticus 15:31
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Leviticus 15:31, God instructs the Israelites to maintain their purity and avoid anything that could make them unclean.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
You must keep the people of Israel separate from things that make them unclean. Otherwise, they will die in their uncleanness by defiling my tabernacle that stands among them."
Thus shall ye separate the children of Israel from their uncleanness; that they die not in their uncleanness, when they defile my tabernacle that is among them.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 15:31, God instructs the Israelites to maintain their purity and avoid anything that could make them unclean. This is crucial because their uncleanness could lead to death, especially if it results in defiling the tabernacle, which is the sacred dwelling place of God among them. The verse emphasizes the importance of holiness and separation from impurities, as these could disrupt their relationship with God. The Israelites are reminded that their actions have consequences, particularly in how they approach worship and their communal life. By adhering to these guidelines, they demonstrate their commitment to God and His standards for living. This call to separation is not just about physical cleanliness but also about spiritual integrity, ensuring that they remain in right standing with God and can experience His presence without the barrier of sin or impurity.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Leviticus 15:31 to your life
Today, this verse reminds us to be mindful of what we allow into our lives. Just as the Israelites were called to avoid uncleanness, we should strive to keep our hearts and minds pure, avoiding influences that could lead us away from God. This can involve making choices about our relationships, media consumption, and personal habits.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 15:31 teach about purity?
Leviticus 15:31 emphasizes the importance of maintaining purity among the Israelites. God instructs them to avoid anything that could make them unclean, as their uncleanness could lead to death, especially if it defiles the tabernacle. This highlights the significance of holiness and the need to separate from impurities to maintain a right relationship with God.
How can we apply Leviticus 15:31 in modern life?
In modern life, Leviticus 15:31 encourages us to be mindful of what influences we allow into our lives. Just as the Israelites were called to avoid uncleanness, we should strive to keep our hearts and minds pure. This may involve making conscious choices about our relationships, the media we consume, and our personal habits to ensure they align with our commitment to God.
What are the consequences of spiritual uncleanness according to this verse?
According to Leviticus 15:31, spiritual uncleanness can have serious consequences, including the risk of death for the Israelites if they defile the tabernacle. This serves as a warning that our actions have repercussions, particularly in how we approach worship and our relationship with God. It underscores the need for spiritual integrity and the importance of adhering to God's standards.
Why is the tabernacle significant in Leviticus 15:31?
The tabernacle is significant in Leviticus 15:31 because it represents God's dwelling place among the Israelites. Defiling the tabernacle through uncleanness disrupts the sacred relationship between God and His people. The verse stresses the need for the Israelites to maintain their purity to honor God's presence and ensure they can worship Him without barriers.

The Book of Leviticus
Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering
The LORD calls to Moses from the tabernacle and gives instructions for the burnt offering. A man who brings a burnt offering from the herd presents a male without blemish at the door of the tabernacle. He lays his hand on the head of the offering, kills it, and Aaron's sons the priests sprinkle the blood around the altar. The animal is flayed and cut into pieces, and the whole is burned on the altar as a sweet savor to the LORD.
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