Leviticus 14:10

KJV

¶ And on the eighth day he shall take two he lambs without blemish, and one ewe lamb of the first year without blemish, and three tenth deals of fine flour [for] a meat offering, mingled with oil, and one log of oil.

KJV (with Strong's)

And on the eighth {H8066} day {H3117} he shall take {H3947} two {H8147} he lambs {H3532} without blemish {H8549}, and one {H259} ewe lamb {H3535} of the first {H1323} year {H8141} without blemish {H8549}, and three {H7969} tenth deals {H6241} of fine flour {H5560} for a meat offering {H4503}, mingled {H1101} with oil {H8081}, and one {H259} log {H3849} of oil {H8081}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"On the eighth day he is to take two male lambs without defect, one female lamb in its first year without defect and six-and-a-half quarts of fine flour for a grain offering, mixed with olive oil, and two-thirds of a pint of olive oil.

Berean Standard Bible

On the eighth day he is to bring two unblemished male lambs, an unblemished ewe lamb a year old, a grain offering of three-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with olive oil, and one log of olive oil.

American Standard Version

And on the eighth day he shall take two he-lambs without blemish, and one ewe-lamb a year old without blemish, and three tenth parts of an ephah of fine flour for a meal-offering, mingled with oil, and one log of oil.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 14:10 meticulously details the specific sacrificial offerings required on the eighth day of the purification process for an individual healed of *tzara'at*, a severe skin condition that rendered one ceremonially unclean. This verse outlines the precise animal and grain offerings—two unblemished male lambs, one unblemished female lamb, fine flour for a grain offering, and oil—all essential components for the re-entry of the purified individual into the community and full participation in Israel's worship life. It underscores the divine demand for perfection in offerings and the comprehensive nature of the restoration ritual.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 14:10 is situated within a lengthy and highly detailed section of Leviticus (chapters 13-14) dedicated to the diagnosis, isolation, and purification of individuals afflicted with *tzara'at*. Chapter 13 provides the priestly guidelines for identifying and managing the condition, leading to the individual's separation from the camp due to ceremonial defilement. Chapter 14 then outlines the elaborate two-stage purification ritual for those confirmed healed. The first stage, occurring outside the camp, involves a unique bird offering and ritual washing (Leviticus 14:1-9). Leviticus 14:10 initiates the second and final stage, which takes place on the "eighth day" after the initial seven-day waiting period. This verse specifies the substantial offerings—lambs, flour, and oil—that would be presented at the tabernacle, culminating in a series of sacrifices (sin, trespass, burnt, and grain offerings, as detailed in the subsequent verses of [Leviticus 14](/leviticus/14 "Leviticus 14 - Cleansing of Lepers")) designed to fully atone for, purify, and reintegrate the healed individual into the holy community. The meticulous detail here emphasizes the gravity of defilement and the thoroughness of God's prescribed path to restoration.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, *tzara'at* was not merely a physical ailment but carried profound social and spiritual implications. It was often viewed as a divine judgment or a manifestation of deep uncleanness, leading to forced isolation from the community, the tabernacle, and all social interaction (as seen in [Numbers 5:2-3](/numbers/5-2 "Numbers 5:2-3 - Exclusion of the Unclean")). This separation was not just for public health but primarily for maintaining the holiness of the camp, where God's presence resided. The purification ritual, therefore, was a dramatic public demonstration of God's power to heal and His gracious provision for restoration. The "eighth day" held significant symbolic weight in Israelite culture, often representing a new beginning, circumcision (Genesis 17:12), or a new creation, making it a fitting day for the re-entry of the purified individual. The specific offerings—lambs and grain—were standard sacrificial elements, but their combination and quantity here underscore the comprehensive nature of the atonement required to bridge the gap between defilement and holiness, allowing the individual to once again draw near to God and their community. The requirement for offerings "without blemish" was a universal standard for all acceptable sacrifices, signifying perfection and worthiness for presentation before a holy God, a concept deeply ingrained in Israelite worship from the outset (cf. [Leviticus 1:3](/leviticus/1-3 "Leviticus 1:3 - Requirements for Burnt Offering")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Eighth Day (Hebrew, _yom hashmini'_):** This phrase, literally "day of the eighth," carries significant theological weight beyond mere chronology. In biblical numerology, the number seven often signifies completion or perfection, while eight frequently symbolizes new beginnings, resurrection, and a fresh start. Examples include the circumcision of male infants on the eighth day (Genesis 17:12), the dedication of the altar for seven days followed by a new beginning on the eighth (Leviticus 9:1), and the Feast of Tabernacles concluding with an eighth-day assembly (Leviticus 23:36). For the individual healed of *tzara'at*, the eighth day marked a definitive break from their former state of defilement and separation, signifying their complete restoration to a new, clean life within the covenant community and their renewed access to God's presence.
* **Without Blemish (Hebrew, _tamim'_):** This adjective, applied to both the he-lambs and the ewe-lamb, means "complete," "whole," "sound," or "perfect." It was a non-negotiable requirement for all sacrificial animals presented to God (Leviticus 1:3, 3:1, 4:3). The demand for an unblemished offering underscored the absolute holiness of God and the seriousness of approaching Him. It symbolized the need for perfection in the offering that would atone for sin and purify the worshiper. This concept foreshadows the ultimate, perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who was "without blemish and without spot" (1 Peter 1:19) and offered Himself as a perfect sacrifice to God.
* **Meat Offering (Hebrew, _minchah'_):** While the KJV translates this as "meat offering," the Hebrew term *minchah* specifically refers to a "grain offering" or "tribute." Unlike animal sacrifices that atoned for sin, the *minchah* was typically a voluntary offering of thanksgiving, devotion, or a recognition of God's provision. It comprised fine flour, often mixed with oil and frankincense. In the context of the *tzara'at* purification, its inclusion alongside animal sacrifices indicates a comprehensive act of worship and dedication, acknowledging God's healing and providing a means for the purified individual to offer thanks and re-establish their covenant relationship through a gift of their produce.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ And on the eighth day he shall take":** This clause establishes the specific timing for the culmination of the purification ritual. The "eighth day" signifies a new beginning and the final stage of the process, following the initial seven-day period of separation and initial purification rites performed outside the camp. The "he" refers to the healed individual, who is responsible for providing these specific offerings.
* **"two he lambs without blemish, and one ewe lamb of the first year without blemish":** This specifies the animal components of the offering. The "two he lambs" would typically be designated for a trespass offering and a sin offering (as detailed in Leviticus 14:12, 19), while the "one ewe lamb of the first year" would be for a burnt offering (Leviticus 14:20). The repeated phrase "without blemish" emphasizes the divine standard of perfection required for all sacrifices, highlighting the sanctity of the offering and the holiness of the God to whom it is presented.
* **"and three tenth deals of fine flour for a meat offering, mingled with oil":** This details the grain offering component. A "tenth deal" (Hebrew: *`issaron`*) is an omer, approximately 2.2 liters. "Three tenth deals" (about 6.6 liters) is a substantial quantity, indicating a generous offering. "Fine flour" (Hebrew: *soleth*) was the highest quality of flour, again emphasizing the best given to God. The flour was to be "mingled with oil," a common practice for grain offerings, symbolizing consecration and perhaps the anointing of the Holy Spirit. This grain offering would accompany the burnt offering (Leviticus 14:20).
* **"and one log of oil":** A "log" (Hebrew: *log*) was a small liquid measure, approximately 0.3 liters. This specific quantity of oil was designated for a unique anointing ritual (Leviticus 14:15-18), where the priest would apply oil to the healed individual's earlobe, thumb, and big toe, symbolizing their re-consecration and readiness to hear, act, and walk in obedience to God's commands. It also played a role in the trespass offering ritual, applied to the blood.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 14:10, like much of the book, is characterized by **Prescriptive Language**, providing precise and unyielding instructions for ritual purity. The meticulous detailing of quantities ("two he lambs," "one ewe lamb," "three tenth deals," "one log") and qualities ("without blemish," "fine flour") exemplifies this, leaving no room for ambiguity in the sacred process. This precision underscores the absolute holiness of God and the seriousness with which His commands are to be followed. **Symbolism** is also profoundly evident; the "eighth day" symbolizes new beginnings and complete restoration, moving beyond the cycle of seven (completion) into a new phase of life. The requirement for animals "without blemish" serves as a powerful symbol of purity and perfection, prefiguring the ultimate, perfect sacrifice. Furthermore, the various components of the offering—lambs, flour, and oil—collectively symbolize the comprehensive nature of atonement, purification, and consecration required for the individual's full reintegration into the community and their renewed relationship with God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 14:10 reveals profound theological truths about God's holiness, the pervasive nature of sin (symbolized by *tzara'at*), and His gracious provision for restoration. The exacting requirements for the offerings underscore that reconciliation with a holy God demands a perfect sacrifice and a comprehensive process of purification. This passage highlights the divine initiative in providing a path back from defilement to fellowship, demonstrating God's desire for His people to be whole and integrated into His covenant community. The "eighth day" motif further emphasizes God's power to bring about new beginnings and complete transformation, moving individuals from a state of death-like separation to renewed life and communion.

* [Leviticus 1:3](/leviticus/1-3 "Leviticus 1:3 - Requirements for a Burnt Offering") - Emphasizes the requirement for an unblemished offering, a standard consistently applied to all sacrifices.
* [Hebrews 9:13-14](/hebrews/9-13 "Hebrews 9:13-14 - The Superiority of Christ's Sacrifice") - Connects the efficacy of animal blood and ritual purification to the infinitely greater power of Christ's perfect, unblemished sacrifice to cleanse conscience.
* [1 Peter 1:18-19](/1_peter/1-18 "1 Peter 1:18-19 - Redemption Through Christ's Precious Blood") - Highlights that redemption is not by perishable things but by the precious blood of Christ, "as of a lamb without blemish and without spot."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Leviticus 14:10, though detailing an ancient ritual, offers timeless insights into God's character and our human condition. It reminds us that sin, like *tzara'at*, defiles and separates us from God and community. Just as the healed individual needed a divinely prescribed path to restoration, we too require a perfect means of cleansing to be reconciled with a holy God. The meticulousness of the offerings points to the seriousness of our defilement and the immense cost of our redemption. This passage calls us to reflect on the comprehensive nature of God's grace, which provides not only forgiveness but also full restoration and reintegration into His family. It challenges us to embrace the "eighth day" reality of new life in Christ, leaving behind our old ways and walking in renewed fellowship with God and others.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the emphasis on "without blemish" in the Old Testament sacrifices deepen your appreciation for the perfection of Christ's sacrifice?**
* **In what ways do you experience spiritual "defilement" or separation from God, and how does this passage encourage you about God's provision for your restoration?**
* **What does the "eighth day" symbolism of new beginnings mean for your daily walk with Christ, and how can you live more fully in that reality?**

### FAQ

**What was *tzara'at*, and why was its purification ritual so elaborate?**

Answer: *Tzara'at* was a severe skin condition, often translated as "leprosy," but it encompassed a broader range of afflictions including mildew on houses and garments (Leviticus 14:34-53). It was not merely a medical condition but a state of profound ceremonial uncleanness that separated an individual from the holy community and the presence of God. The elaborate purification ritual, spanning multiple days and involving numerous sacrifices and ritual washings, underscored the gravity of defilement and the absolute holiness of God. It was a visible, public process designed to thoroughly cleanse the individual and symbolically re-integrate them into the camp, demonstrating God's power to heal and His meticulous provision for purity and reconciliation.

**Why were "three tenth deals of fine flour" and "one log of oil" required?**

Answer: The "three tenth deals of fine flour" (approximately 6.6 liters) for a grain offering (*minchah*) and "one log of oil" (approximately 0.3 liters) were specific, generous quantities that served distinct purposes within the purification ritual. The substantial grain offering, made of the highest quality "fine flour" mixed with oil, accompanied the burnt offering (Leviticus 14:20) and represented a voluntary act of thanksgiving and devotion from the healed individual, acknowledging God's provision and restoration. The "one log of oil" was specifically used in a unique anointing ceremony (Leviticus 14:15-18) where the priest applied oil to the healed person's right earlobe, right thumb, and right big toe. This anointing symbolized their re-consecration to God, signifying their readiness to hear, act, and walk in obedience, and their full restoration to priestly functions within the community, even if not a literal priest. It also played a role in the trespass offering, applied to the blood.

**What is the significance of the "eighth day" in this ritual?**

Answer: The "eighth day" is highly significant in biblical symbolism, often representing new beginnings, completion, and resurrection. In the context of the *tzara'at* purification, the initial seven-day period of separation and initial rites (Leviticus 14:1-9) marked a period of transition and preparation. The "eighth day" then signaled the culmination of the purification process and the individual's full re-entry into the community and the tabernacle worship. It symbolized a definitive break from the old state of defilement and the beginning of a new, clean life, fully restored to fellowship with God and His people. This motif is echoed in other biblical contexts, such as circumcision on the eighth day (Genesis 17:12), signifying entry into the covenant, and ultimately finds its deepest fulfillment in the resurrection of Christ on the first day of the week (which is the "eighth day" following the Sabbath), inaugurating a new creation and new life for believers (John 20:1, [Romans 6:4](/romans/6-4 "Romans 6:4 - Newness of Life")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 14:10, with its meticulous requirements for unblemished lambs, fine flour, and oil on the "eighth day" for the purification of the *tzara'at* sufferer, powerfully foreshadows the person and work of Jesus Christ. The requirement for offerings "without blemish" finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who was the [perfect Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), "without blemish and without spot" (1 Peter 1:19), offered once for all as the supreme sacrifice for sin. Just as the *tzara'at* sufferer was separated from the community and needed a comprehensive ritual for re-entry, humanity, defiled by sin, is separated from a holy God. Christ, through His perfect life, atoning death, and resurrection, provides the complete and final purification. The "eighth day" symbolism, marking a new beginning for the healed individual, climaxes in Christ's resurrection on the first day of the week (the "eighth day"), inaugurating a new creation and new life for all who believe (2 Corinthians 5:17). Through faith in Him, we are not merely cleansed but fully restored to fellowship with God, made part of His new covenant community, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, just as the oil in the ritual symbolized anointing and consecration (1 John 2:20, 27). He is our ultimate [Passover Lamb](/1_corinthians/5-7 "1 Corinthians 5:7 - Christ Our Passover Lamb"), our perfect offering, and the source of our eternal restoration.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Leviticus 2:1

¶ And when any will offer a meat offering unto the LORD, his offering shall be [of] fine flour; and he shall pour oil upon it, and put frankincense thereon:

Leviticus 14:21

¶ And if he [be] poor, and cannot get so much; then he shall take one lamb [for] a trespass offering to be waved, to make an atonement for him, and one tenth deal of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering, and a log of oil;

Matthew 8:4

And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

Leviticus 14:12

And the priest shall take one he lamb, and offer him for a trespass offering, and the log of oil, and wave them [for] a wave offering before the LORD:

Mark 1:44

And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

Luke 5:14

And he charged him to tell no man: but go, and shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

Leviticus 14:15

And the priest shall take [some] of the log of oil, and pour [it] into the palm of his own left hand: