Old Testament
Numbers 31:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Purify every piece of clothing, everything made of leather, everything made of goat hair, and everything made of wood."
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And purify all your raiment, and all that is made of skins, and all work of goats’ hair, and all things made of wood.
What Numbers 31:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 31:20, God instructs the Israelites on how to purify various materials after a battle. This purification process is significant as it symbolizes the need for cleanliness and holiness in their lives. The verse specifies that clothing, leather, goat hair, and wood must be purified, indicating that all aspects of their possessions require attention to maintain spiritual purity. This reflects the broader theme of holiness in the Israelite community, emphasizing that even everyday items can be affected by sin and must be made clean. The act of purification serves as a reminder of the importance of being set apart for God’s purposes and the need to address any contamination that may arise from their actions. This command also highlights the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement, as the Israelites were to ensure that everything they owned was suitable for worship and service to God.
How to apply Numbers 31:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own lives and possessions for areas that may need purification. Just as the Israelites were instructed to cleanse their items, we should seek to remove anything that hinders our relationship with God, ensuring that we live in a way that honors Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- 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 Numbers 31:20 mean?
Numbers 31:20 instructs the Israelites to purify various materials after a battle, symbolizing the need for cleanliness and holiness in their lives. This purification process reflects the importance of addressing sin and maintaining spiritual purity in all aspects of their possessions.
What is the significance of purification in Numbers 31:20?
The purification in Numbers 31:20 signifies the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. It emphasizes that even everyday items can be affected by sin and must be made clean to be suitable for worship and service to God.
What items are mentioned for purification in Numbers 31:20?
In Numbers 31:20, the items mentioned for purification include clothing, leather, goat hair, and wood. This indicates that all aspects of the Israelites' possessions require attention to maintain spiritual cleanliness.
How does Numbers 31:20 relate to spiritual cleanliness?
Numbers 31:20 relates to spiritual cleanliness by highlighting the need to cleanse not just the heart but also everyday items that may be contaminated by sin. It serves as a reminder that maintaining holiness involves examining all areas of life.
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