What number verse is Leviticus 14:27 in the Bible?

Leviticus 14:27 is the 3,139th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Leviticus 14:27 sits at position 3,139.

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Leviticus 14:27

Q: Why was oil used in this ritual?

Oil (Hebrew: shemen) was a common biblical symbol for consecration, anointing, and the presence or power of the Holy Spirit. Its application in the purification ritual for *tzara'at* signified the cleansed person's re-consecration to God, their restoration to a state of spiritual wholeness, and often, divine blessing or empowerment. It marked the individual as set apart for God's purposes and symbolized their full re-integration into the sacred community, now made pure and acceptable to God.

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Translation

King James Version

And the priest shall sprinkle with his right finger some of the oil that is in his left hand seven times before the LORD:

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KJV (with Strong's)

And the priest ^H3548 shall sprinkle ^H5137 with his right ^H3233 finger ^H676 some of the oil ^H8081 that is in his left ^H8042 hand ^H3709 seven ^H7651 times ^H6471 before ^H6440 the LORD ^H3068:

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Complete Jewish Bible

and sprinkle with his right hand some of the oil that is in his left hand seven times before ADONAI.

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Berean Standard Bible

and sprinkle with his right forefinger some of the oil in his left palm seven times before the LORD.

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American Standard Version

and the priest shall sprinkle with his right finger some of the oil that is in his left hand seven times before Jehovah:

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World English Bible Messianic

and the priest shall sprinkle with his right finger some of the oil that is in his left hand seven times before the LORD.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

So ye Priest shall with his right finger sprinkle of the oyle that is in his left hand, seuen times before the Lord.

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Young's Literal Translation

and the priest hath sprinkled with his right finger of the oil which is on his left palm, seven times before Jehovah.

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In the KJVVerse 3,139 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Leviticus 14:27 details a crucial step in the purification ritual for a person healed of tzara'at, a severe skin affliction. In this precise act, the priest, acting as God's designated mediator, takes consecrated oil in his left hand and, using his right finger, sprinkles it seven times "before the LORD." This meticulously prescribed action symbolizes the complete and divine re-consecration of the formerly defiled individual, signifying their full restoration to ritual purity, community fellowship, and a state of acceptance in God's holy presence.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Leviticus 14 meticulously outlines the two-stage purification process for someone healed of tzara'at, a broad category of impurities encompassing various skin conditions and even mildew on garments and houses. The initial stage, described in Leviticus 14:1-9, occurred outside the camp and involved a complex ritual with two birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop, culminating in the shaving of all hair and washing of clothes. After seven days of waiting, the second, more comprehensive stage began on the eighth day, which is where Leviticus 14:27 is situated. This latter stage involved a series of sacrifices—a guilt offering, a sin offering, a burnt offering, and a grain offering—along with the application of blood and oil to specific parts of the cleansed person's body (earlobe, thumb, big toe), and the sevenfold sprinkling of oil before the LORD. This sequence underscores the progressive nature of purification, moving from initial cleansing to full re-integration and consecration within the community and before God.
Historical & Cultural Context: The condition of tzara'at (צָרַעַת), often translated "leprosy," was not strictly the modern Hansen's disease but encompassed a broader range of debilitating skin diseases, and even mildew on garments and houses, as described in Leviticus 13. It was considered a profound state of ritual impurity, rendering the afflicted person ceremonially unclean and requiring strict isolation from the Israelite camp and community. This isolation was not merely for public health but primarily for ritual purity, as defilement could compromise the holiness of the camp where God's presence dwelled. The priest's role was crucial; he was the divinely appointed authority to diagnose tzara'at, declare a person unclean, and, upon healing, oversee the elaborate purification rituals that allowed for re-entry into society and worship. The meticulous nature of these rituals, including the use of oil, sacrifices, and specific gestures, highlighted the gravity of defilement and the absolute necessity of divine intervention and priestly mediation for restoration to a holy God.
Key Themes: This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of Holiness and Purity, emphasizing God's absolute holiness and the necessity for His people to maintain ritual purity to dwell in His presence, as seen throughout Leviticus. It also highlights the theme of Mediation, with the priest serving as the divinely appointed intermediary between a holy God and an impure people, facilitating restoration and reconciliation. The meticulous detail of the ritual underscores Divine Authority and Order, demonstrating that access to God's presence is governed by His precise commands. Finally, the act of restoration itself points to God's Grace and Provision, as He provides the means for the defiled to be cleansed and re-integrated into the community, foreshadowing a deeper spiritual cleansing.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Priest (Hebrew, kôhên', H3548): Meaning "one officiating, a priest." The kohen was not merely a ritual functionary but a divinely appointed mediator between God and Israel. His actions in the purification process were not arbitrary but were precisely prescribed by God, underscoring the sacredness and divine authority behind the ritual. The priest's role in handling the oil and performing the sprinkling signified that this act of re-consecration was sanctioned and effective in God's eyes, essential for the individual's re-entry into the holy community.
Oil (Hebrew, shemen', H8081): Meaning "grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness." In biblical contexts, oil frequently symbolizes consecration, anointing, divine blessing, and the presence or power of the Holy Spirit. Its application in this ritual indicated the cleansed person's re-dedication to God and their restoration to a state of spiritual wholeness and favor. This sacred oil, distinct from common oil, marked the individual as set apart for God, signifying a divine seal upon their purification.
Seven Times (Hebrew, sheba' paʻam', H7651): (seven) and H6471 (times), meaning "a stroke, literally or figuratively... (often-), second, this, two) time(-s), twice." The number seven consistently denotes completeness, perfection, or divine fulfillment throughout Scripture. The act of sprinkling the oil seven times was not merely repetitive but emphasized the thoroughness, efficacy, and divine perfection of the purification. It signified that the restoration was absolute and complete in God's sight, leaving no aspect of defilement unaddressed.

Verse Breakdown

"And the priest shall sprinkle with his right finger": This phrase emphasizes the precise and deliberate action of the priest. The "right finger" (Hebrew, yᵉmânîy 'etsbaʻ) often symbolizes strength, authority, and blessing in biblical thought. Here, it denotes the active, authoritative, and effective application of the consecrated oil, signifying a divinely empowered act of cleansing and consecration, performed by God's chosen representative.
"[some] of the oil that [is] in his left hand": The left hand (Hebrew, sᵉmâʼlîy kaph) holds the source—the precious, consecrated oil—while the right hand performs the action. This detail highlights the careful, intentional, and balanced nature of the priestly rite. The oil itself is the medium of consecration, representing the divine presence and blessing being imparted, held securely and offered for the sacred purpose.
"seven times": This numerical detail is crucial. As noted in the Key Word Analysis, the sevenfold repetition underscores the completeness and perfection of the purification. It signifies that the defilement is entirely removed, and the individual is fully restored to a state of ritual purity and divine acceptance, leaving no room for residual impurity.
"before the LORD": This concluding phrase is paramount, elevating the entire ritual from a mere physical act to a profound spiritual one. It signifies that the purification and re-consecration are performed in God's immediate presence (Hebrew, pânîym Yᵉhôvâh), for His approval, and according to His divine will. The ultimate audience and validator of the cleansing is God Himself, making the restoration truly effective and spiritually significant in His sight.

Literary Devices

Leviticus 14:27 is rich in Symbolism. The oil (Hebrew, shemen) itself symbolizes consecration, anointing, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, pointing to a spiritual cleansing beyond the physical. The right finger (Hebrew, yᵉmânîy 'etsbaʻ) signifies authority, power, and the active hand of God's chosen mediator. The left hand (Hebrew, sᵉmâʼlîy kaph) holding the oil suggests the source or reservoir of divine provision. The number seven (Hebrew, shebaʻ) is a potent symbol of completeness, perfection, and divine covenant, emphasizing the thoroughness and efficacy of the purification. The phrase "before the LORD" (Hebrew, pânîym Yᵉhôvâh) utilizes Divine Witness and implies a Theophany (the presence of God), underscoring that the ritual's efficacy and purpose are rooted in God's will and presence. The entire passage operates as a Ritualistic Narrative, where each precise action carries profound theological weight, foreshadowing a deeper spiritual reality.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Leviticus 14:27, though part of a ceremonial law, profoundly reveals God's character and His redemptive plan. It underscores God's absolute holiness and His unyielding desire for His people to be clean, consecrated, and able to dwell in His presence. The meticulous nature of the ritual, the priest's mediatorial role, the symbolism of the oil, and the emphasis on completeness ("seven times" and "before the LORD") all point to the divine initiative in restoring the defiled. While the physical rituals have been fulfilled in Christ, the principles of divine purity, necessary mediation, and complete spiritual restoration remain central to Christian theology, highlighting that true cleansing is always from God and for His glory.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

This ancient ritual, with its precise instructions and profound symbolism, serves as a powerful reminder of God's meticulous care for purity and His unwavering commitment to restoring His people to fellowship with Him. For believers today, while we are no longer bound by these ceremonial laws, the underlying spiritual truths are deeply applicable. We are called to holiness, not through ritualistic cleansing, but through the transformative work of Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit. The "seven times" sprinkling of oil reminds us that God's work of salvation and sanctification in our lives is complete and perfect, leading to a full restoration of our relationship with Him. We are consecrated by His Spirit, set apart for His purposes, and enabled to live "before the LORD" in true spiritual purity and worship. This verse encourages us to embrace the fullness of God's cleansing work in our lives, trusting in His complete provision for our spiritual health and acceptance, knowing that He desires us to be fully restored and consecrated for His glory.

Questions for Reflection

How does the meticulous nature of this ancient ritual speak to God's character and His desire for our holiness today?
In what ways do we, as believers, experience a "sprinkling" of the Holy Spirit that consecrates us for God's service?
Considering the "seven times" for completeness, what areas of your life do you need to fully surrender to God for His complete work of purification and restoration?

FAQ

Why was oil used in this ritual?

Answer: Oil (Hebrew: shemen) was a common biblical symbol for consecration, anointing, and the presence or power of the Holy Spirit. Its application in the purification ritual for tzara'at signified the cleansed person's re-consecration to God, their restoration to a state of spiritual wholeness, and often, divine blessing or empowerment. It marked the individual as set apart for God's purposes and symbolized their full re-integration into the sacred community, now made pure and acceptable to God.

What is the significance of "seven times"?

Answer: The number seven in biblical numerology consistently denotes completeness, perfection, or divine fulfillment. Sprinkling the oil seven times emphasized the thoroughness and divine efficacy of the purification and consecration. It signified a complete and perfect restoration in God's eyes, underscoring that God's work of cleansing is absolute and leaves nothing undone. It ensures that the individual is fully and perfectly restored to ritual purity and divine favor, signifying a divinely accomplished work.

Does this ritual apply to Christians today?

Answer: While the specific rituals of the Old Testament Law, including those for tzara'at, are no longer practiced by Christians, having been fulfilled in Christ, the underlying theological principles remain profoundly relevant. This ritual foreshadows God's desire for purity, the necessity of mediation, and the complete work of the Holy Spirit in cleansing and consecrating believers. Christians are cleansed by the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ on the cross and consecrated by the indwelling Holy Spirit, not by ceremonial oil or animal sacrifices. As Hebrews 10:1-10 explains, the Law served as a shadow, with Christ being the substance and fulfillment.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Leviticus 14:27 finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The priest, meticulously applying the oil for purification, foreshadows Christ as our great High Priest, who performs a far superior and eternal cleansing. The oil, symbolizing consecration and the Holy Spirit, points directly to the anointing of Jesus by the Spirit for His redemptive work and the subsequent outpouring of the Spirit upon believers, by which we are truly consecrated and set apart for God. The "seven times" sprinkling, signifying completeness, beautifully prefigures the finished work of Christ on the cross, which provides a perfect, once-for-all purification for sin, making us completely clean "before the LORD" (Hebrews 9:11-14). Just as the tzara'at sufferer was restored to community, believers, cleansed by the blood of Jesus and renewed by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, are fully reconciled to God and restored to His holy presence, enjoying complete fellowship and eternal acceptance through Him.

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Commentary on Leviticus 14 verses 21–32

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;

22 And two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, such as he is able to get; and the one shall be a sin offering, and the other a burnt offering.

23 And he shall bring them on the eighth day for his cleansing unto the priest, unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, before the LORD.

24 And the priest shall take the lamb of the trespass offering, and the log of oil, and the priest shall wave them for a wave offering before the LORD:

25 And he shall kill the lamb of the trespass offering, and the priest shall take some of the blood of the trespass offering, and put it upon the tip of the right ear of him that is to be cleansed, and upon the thumb of his right hand, and upon the great toe of his right foot:

26 And the priest shall pour of the oil into the palm of his own left hand:

27 And the priest shall sprinkle with his right finger some of the oil that is in his left hand seven times before the LORD:

28 And the priest shall put of the oil that is in his hand upon the tip of the right ear of him that is to be cleansed, and upon the thumb of his right hand, and upon the great toe of his right foot, upon the place of the blood of the trespass offering:

29 And the rest of the oil that is in the priest's hand he shall put upon the head of him that is to be cleansed, to make an atonement for him before the LORD.

30 And he shall offer the one of the turtledoves, or of the young pigeons, such as he can get;

31 Even such as he is able to get, the one for a sin offering, and the other for a burnt offering, with the meat offering: and the priest shall make an atonement for him that is to be cleansed before the LORD.

32 This is the law of him in whom is the plague of leprosy, whose hand is not able to get that which pertaineth to his cleansing.

We have here the gracious provision which the law made for the cleansing of poor lepers. If they were not able to bring three lambs, and three tenth-deals of flour, they must bring one lamb, and one tenth-deal of flour, and, instead of the other two lambs, two turtle-doves or two young pigeons, Lev 14:21, Lev 14:22. Here see, 1. That the poverty of the person concerned would not excuse him if he brought no offering at all. Let none think that because they are poor God requires no service from them, since he has considered them, and demands that which it is in the power of the poorest to give. "My son, give me thy heart, and with that the calves of thy lips shall be accepted instead of the calves of the stall." 2. That God expected from those who were poor only according to their ability; his commandments are not grievous, nor does he make us to serve with an offering. The poor are as welcome to God's altar as the rich; and, if there be first a willing mind and an honest heart, two pigeons, when they are the utmost a man is able to get, are as acceptable to God as two lambs; for he requires according to what a man has and not according to what he has not. But it is observable that though a meaner sacrifice was accepted from the poor, yet the very same ceremony was used for them as was for the rich; for their souls are as precious and Christ and his gospel are the same to both. Let not us therefore have the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ with respect of persons, Jam 2:1.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 21–32. Public domain.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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