Leviticus 15:13

KJV

And when he that hath an issue is cleansed of his issue; then he shall number to himself seven days for his cleansing, and wash his clothes, and bathe his flesh in running water, and shall be clean.

KJV (with Strong's)

And when he that hath an issue {H2100} is cleansed {H2891} of his issue {H2101}; then he shall number {H5608} to himself seven {H7651} days {H3117} for his cleansing {H2893}, and wash {H3526} his clothes {H899}, and bathe {H7364} his flesh {H1320} in running {H2416} water {H4325}, and shall be clean {H2891}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"'When a person with a discharge has become free of it, he is to count seven days for his purification. Then he is to wash his clothes and bathe his body in running water; after that, he will be clean.

Berean Standard Bible

When the man has been cleansed from his discharge, he must count off seven days for his cleansing, wash his clothes, and bathe himself in fresh water, and he shall be clean.

American Standard Version

And when he that hath an issue is cleansed of his issue, then he shall number to himself seven days for his cleansing, and wash his clothes; and he shall bathe his flesh in running water, and shall be clean.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 15:13 meticulously outlines the purification ritual for a man who has been healed of a chronic bodily discharge, referred to as an "issue." This verse details the crucial steps required for his restoration to ritual purity: a mandatory seven-day waiting period, the washing of his clothes, and a full immersion bath of his flesh in "running water." These divinely mandated actions were essential to signify his transition from a state of ritual impurity, which had excluded him from communal worship and interaction, back into full, unhindered participation within the holy community of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 15 forms a distinct and crucial section within the broader legal framework of the Book of Leviticus, specifically addressing laws concerning various bodily discharges that render an individual ritually unclean. Positioned after chapters detailing purity laws related to food ([Leviticus 11](/leviticus/11 "Leviticus 11 - Clean and Unclean Animals")), childbirth ([Leviticus 12](/leviticus/12 "Leviticus 12 - Purification After Childbirth")), and skin diseases like leprosy ([Leviticus 13-14](/leviticus/13 "Leviticus 13 - Laws Concerning Skin Diseases")), chapter 15 focuses intently on male and female genital discharges. Verses [Leviticus 15:1-15](/leviticus/15-1-15 "Leviticus 15:1-15 - Laws Concerning Male Discharges") specifically address male discharges, while [Leviticus 15:16-18](/leviticus/15-16-18 "Leviticus 15:16-18 - Laws Concerning Seminal Emission") cover seminal emissions, and [Leviticus 15:19-30](/leviticus/15-19-30 "Leviticus 15:19-30 - Laws Concerning Female Discharges") detail female discharges, including menstruation and abnormal flows. The entire chapter underscores the pervasive nature of ritual impurity and the meticulous divine provision for its removal, ensuring the sanctity of the tabernacle and the covenant community. Our verse, [Leviticus 15:13](/leviticus/15-13 "Leviticus 15:13 - Purification for Male Discharge"), specifically marks the culmination of the purification process for a man with a chronic issue, preparing him for the subsequent sin and burnt offerings described in [Leviticus 15:14-15](/leviticus/15-14-15 "Leviticus 15:14-15 - Sacrifices After Purification").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the concept of purity was not primarily about modern hygiene but revolved around ritual and spiritual fitness to approach a holy God and participate in the life of the covenant community. Bodily discharges, particularly those seen as outflows of life (such as blood or semen), were considered to convey ritual impurity because they represented a loss of life-force or were associated with the realm of death (e.g., a corpse was considered supremely unclean). The "issue" (זוֹב, _zôḇ_) mentioned in [Leviticus 15:2](/leviticus/15-2 "Leviticus 15:2 - The Impurity of a Male Discharge") refers to an abnormal, chronic, or pathological flow, distinct from normal bodily functions. Such a condition rendered the individual, and anything they touched, ritually unclean, leading to temporary exclusion from the tabernacle/temple precincts and certain communal activities. The purification process, meticulously detailed in [Leviticus 15:13](/leviticus/15-13 "Leviticus 15:13 - The Cleansing Process"), was therefore essential for reintegration into the sacred community. The emphasis on "running water" (מַיִם חַיִּים, _mayim chayyim_) was crucial; stagnant water could itself become impure, whereas living water from a spring or river symbolized purity, life, and active cleansing, a concept later echoed in prophetic literature and the New Testament.

* **Key Themes:** Leviticus 15:13 contributes significantly to several overarching themes found throughout the book of Leviticus and the Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of **Holiness and Purity**, emphasizing God's absolute separateness and the requirement for His people to reflect His character, especially in their approach to Him. The detailed purification rituals underscore the pervasive nature of **Impurity and Defilement**, illustrating how even natural bodily functions, when they deviate from the norm, can create barriers to fellowship with a holy God. This verse also highlights the theme of **Divine Provision for Cleansing**, demonstrating God's gracious initiative in providing specific, accessible means for His people to transition from defilement to purity, thereby enabling **Restoration and Reintegration** into the covenant community and worship. The meticulous steps involved also speak to the theme of **Obedience and Ritual Precision**, emphasizing the importance of following God's commands exactly as given for true purification and blessing. These themes collectively reinforce the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where purity was paramount for maintaining His presence among them, as seen in the concluding admonition of [Leviticus 15:31](/leviticus/15-31 "Leviticus 15:31 - Warning Against Defiling the Tabernacle").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Issue (Hebrew, _zôwb'_):** (H2101) This noun, derived from the verb "to flow freely," refers specifically to a seminal or menstrual flux. In the context of Leviticus 15, it denotes an abnormal, chronic bodily discharge that rendered an individual ritually impure. It signifies a deviation from the divinely ordained order of health and wholeness, thus necessitating purification to restore proper relationship with the holy God and the community.
* **Cleansed (Hebrew, _ṭâhêr'_):** (H2891) This primitive root means "to be bright," and by implication, "to be pure." It encompasses physical soundness, clarity, and being uncontaminated. Levitically, it signifies being ritually uncontaminated, and morally, innocent or holy. In this verse, it indicates the completion of the period of impurity and the initiation of the purification process, moving from a state of defilement to one of acceptability before God and the community. The act of cleansing is not merely external but signifies a restoration of order and holiness.
* **Running (Hebrew, _chay'_):** (H2416) This word, meaning "alive," is used here as an adjective modifying "water" (_mayim_). When applied to water, it means "fresh" or "springing," denoting water that is flowing and active, as opposed to stagnant or collected water. Its significance lies in its dynamic, life-giving, and inherently purifying properties. It symbolizes active, continuous cleansing and is often associated with divine blessing and vitality, distinguishing it from water that might itself become contaminated.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when he that hath an issue is cleansed of his issue;":** This initial clause establishes the prerequisite for the purification ritual: the cessation of the abnormal bodily discharge. It signifies a natural or divinely-wrought healing, indicating that the source of impurity has dried up. This cessation is fundamental, as the ritual cleansing is for one who *has been* healed, not for one still actively suffering from the issue.
* **"then he shall number to himself seven days for his cleansing,":** This specifies a mandatory waiting period of seven full days following the cessation of the issue. The number seven in biblical numerology often signifies completion, perfection, or divine ordination, indicating a full cycle of transition. This period ensures that the cessation of the issue is confirmed and provides a time for the individual to reflect and prepare for full reintegration into the community and worship. It's a period of observation and confirmation of healing.
* **"and wash his clothes,":** This is a crucial practical and symbolic act of purification. Clothes, having been in contact with the impure person or their discharge, would also have become ritually unclean. Washing them signifies the removal of external defilement and underscores the thoroughness required in the cleansing process, extending beyond the body to all that has been contaminated by the impurity.
* **"and bathe his flesh in running water,":** This is the central act of physical purification. The full immersion bath, specifically in "running water" (מַיִם חַיִּים, _mayim chayyim_, literally "living waters"), is paramount. It symbolizes a complete spiritual and physical cleansing, washing away all residual impurity. The dynamic nature of "running water" emphasizes a thorough, active, and life-giving purification, contrasting sharply with stagnant water which could become defiled.
* **"and shall be clean.":** This final declaration signifies the successful completion of the ritual. Upon performing all the prescribed steps with precision and obedience, the individual is divinely pronounced ritually pure. This declaration enables them to re-enter the tabernacle and participate fully in the life of the community, symbolizing restoration and renewed communion with God and fellow Israelites.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several literary devices to emphasize the gravity and thoroughness of the purification process. The **Repetition** of the concept of "cleansing" (H2891, H2893) and "issue" (H2100, H2101) throughout Leviticus 15 reinforces the pervasive nature of impurity and the divine insistence on its meticulous removal. The detailed enumeration of steps—the seven-day count, washing clothes, and bathing in running water—serves as a form of **hyper-specificity**, underscoring the absolute precision and obedience required by God's holiness. Furthermore, the "running water" itself functions as potent **Symbolism**, representing not just physical cleanliness but also spiritual vitality, life, and active purification, standing in stark contrast to stagnant, potentially defiling waters. The entire ritual acts as a **Type**, foreshadowing a greater, more profound and ultimate cleansing that would eventually be provided through a future divine act, ultimately in Christ.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 15:13, while detailing specific ceremonial laws, profoundly illustrates God's unyielding standard of holiness and the absolute necessity of purity for fellowship with Him. The meticulous nature of the cleansing ritual underscores that impurity, whether physical or spiritual, creates a barrier between humanity and the divine. This passage teaches that God Himself graciously provides the means for purification and restoration, demonstrating His desire for His people to live in a state of holiness that allows for intimate communion. The multi-step process, culminating in a divine declaration of "clean," points to a divine order where defilement is addressed comprehensively, not superficially, ensuring that God's holy presence can dwell among His people without being defiled.

* [Numbers 19:11-13](/numbers/19-11-13 "Numbers 19:11-13 - Purification from Corpse Defilement")
* [Hebrews 9:13-14](/hebrews/9-13-14 "Hebrews 9:13-14 - The Superiority of Christ's Blood")
* [1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing by the Blood of Jesus")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific ceremonial laws of Leviticus are not directly binding on New Covenant believers, Leviticus 15:13 offers profound spiritual principles for contemporary life. It serves as a timeless reminder that God remains holy and desires His people to pursue holiness in all aspects of their being. Just as a physical issue rendered one ritually impure, sin renders us spiritually unclean, creating a fundamental barrier to our fellowship with God. The thoroughness of the ancient purification ritual serves as a powerful metaphor for the comprehensive cleansing we require from sin. It underscores that true spiritual purity is not a passive state but often involves deliberate steps of repentance, confession, and an active turning away from sin. The "running water" in the ritual points to the living and active work of the Holy Spirit, who continually purifies and renews us as we walk in faith and obedience. This verse challenges us to prayerfully consider what "issues" (sins, habits, attitudes, or unconfessed areas) might be hindering our intimate walk with God and what active, intentional steps we need to take, by His grace and power, to pursue a life of greater purity and deeper intimacy with Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "issues" or areas of spiritual impurity in my life might be hindering my fellowship with God and full participation in His kingdom?**
* **What deliberate, active steps am I taking to seek cleansing and pursue holiness, similar to the prescribed actions in Leviticus 15:13, recognizing that Christ has provided the ultimate cleansing?**
* **How does the concept of "running water" (living water) in this verse relate to the ongoing, dynamic work of the Holy Spirit in my life for purification and renewal, and how can I yield more fully to His cleansing power?**

### FAQ

**What was the purpose of the "seven days" for cleansing?**

Answer: The seven-day period, a recurring element in biblical purification rituals (e.g., after childbirth in [Leviticus 12:2](/leviticus/12-2 "Leviticus 12:2 - Purification after Childbirth") or for leprosy in [Leviticus 14:8](/leviticus/14-8 "Leviticus 14:8 - Cleansing for Leprosy")), served multiple significant purposes. Numerologically, seven often signifies completeness, perfection, or divine ordering, indicating a full cycle of purification and transition. Practically, it allowed for confirmation that the "issue" had truly ceased and provided a buffer period for the individual to transition from a state of impurity to purity. This time also prepared them psychologically and spiritually for re-entry into communal life and worship, emphasizing the thoroughness and divine ordering of the cleansing process, ensuring it was not a hasty or superficial act.

**Why was "running water" specified instead of any water?**

Answer: "Running water" (מַיִם חַיִּים, _mayim chayyim_, literally "living waters") was crucial because it symbolized active, natural purity and vitality. Unlike stagnant water, which could become contaminated and itself a source of impurity, flowing water from a spring, river, or a continuously filled cistern was considered inherently pure and life-giving. This distinction underscored the need for a dynamic and complete cleansing, reflecting the living God who provides true purification. This concept of "living water" is a powerful motif throughout scripture, later used by Jesus in [John 4:10](/john/4-10 "John 4:10 - Jesus Offers Living Water") to describe the spiritual life and eternal satisfaction He offers.

**Are these Old Testament purity laws still relevant for Christians today?**

Answer: While the specific ceremonial purity laws of Leviticus are not directly binding on New Covenant believers (as clarified by the early church in [Acts 15](/acts/15 "Acts 15 - The Jerusalem Council") and by Paul in [Colossians 2:16-17](/colossians/2-16-17 "Colossians 2:16-17 - Freedom from Ceremonial Law")), the underlying theological principles remain profoundly relevant. These laws highlight God's unchanging holiness, the pervasive nature of sin (which can be seen as our spiritual "issue"), and humanity's desperate need for thorough cleansing to approach Him. They serve as a vivid shadow pointing to the ultimate and complete purification provided by Jesus Christ, whose perfect sacrifice fulfills and transcends these ancient rituals. For Christians, the focus shifts from ritual impurity to moral and spiritual purity, empowered by the Holy Spirit, as we are called to be holy as God is holy ([1 Peter 1:15-16](/1_peter/1-15-16 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be Holy")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 15:13, with its meticulous instructions for cleansing from an "issue" through a seven-day process, washing, and bathing in "running water," serves as a profound Old Testament type pointing to the ultimate and complete purification found in Jesus Christ. The temporary and repetitive nature of these Old Covenant rituals underscores their inherent inability to provide a permanent solution to the fundamental problem of impurity, whether ritual or spiritual. They were mere shadows, as [Hebrews 10:1](/hebrews/10-1 "Hebrews 10:1 - The Law as a Shadow") explains, of the perfect reality to come. Jesus, the spotless [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), entered into human impurity, not to be defiled, but to cleanse it definitively. His shed blood, unlike the water of ritual baths, provides a once-for-all, eternal purification for sin, as [Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Cleansing by Christ's Blood") powerfully declares, "how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God." The "running water" of Leviticus finds its ultimate fulfillment in the "living water" that Jesus offers ([John 4:10](/john/4-10 "John 4:10 - Jesus Offers Living Water")), which is the Holy Spirit, who continually purifies and sanctifies believers ([Titus 3:5](/titus/3-5 "Titus 3:5 - Washing of Regeneration and Renewal of the Holy Spirit")). Through Christ, we are not merely ritually cleansed but spiritually transformed and made truly clean and holy, enabling us to draw near to God with confidence and live in His presence without the need for endless ritual purification ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Confidence to Enter the Holy Place")).

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 14:8

And he that is to be cleansed shall wash his clothes, and shave off all his hair, and wash himself in water, that he may be clean: and after that he shall come into the camp, and shall tarry abroad out of his tent seven days.

Leviticus 8:33

And ye shall not go out of the door of the tabernacle of the congregation [in] seven days, until the days of your consecration be at an end: for seven days shall he consecrate you.

Leviticus 15:5

And whosoever toucheth his bed shall wash his clothes, and bathe [himself] in water, and be unclean until the even.

Leviticus 15:28

But if she be cleansed of her issue, then she shall number to herself seven days, and after that she shall be clean.

Numbers 19:11

¶ He that toucheth the dead body of any man shall be unclean seven days.

Numbers 19:12

He shall purify himself with it on the third day, and on the seventh day he shall be clean: but if he purify not himself the third day, then the seventh day he shall not be clean.

Numbers 12:14

And the LORD said unto Moses, If her father had but spit in her face, should she not be ashamed seven days? let her be shut out from the camp seven days, and after that let her be received in [again].