Numbers 8:7

KJV

And thus shalt thou do unto them, to cleanse them: Sprinkle water of purifying upon them, and let them shave all their flesh, and let them wash their clothes, and [so] make themselves clean.

KJV (with Strong's)

And thus shalt thou do {H6213} unto them, to cleanse {H2891} them: Sprinkle {H5137} water {H4325} of purifying {H2403} upon them, and let them shave {H8593}{H5674} all their flesh {H1320}, and let them wash {H3526} their clothes {H899}, and so make themselves clean {H2891}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Here is how you are to cleanse them: sprinkle the purification water on them, have them shave their whole body with a razor, and have them wash their clothes and cleanse themselves.

Berean Standard Bible

This is what you must do to cleanse them: Sprinkle them with the water of purification. Have them shave their whole bodies and wash their clothes, and so purify themselves.

American Standard Version

And thus shalt thou do unto them, to cleanse them: sprinkle the water of expiation upon them, and let them cause a razor to pass over all their flesh, and let them wash their clothes, and cleanse themselves.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 8:7 outlines the initial, divinely prescribed purification rites for the Levites, a foundational step in their consecration for sacred service in the Tabernacle. This verse details specific actions—sprinkling with water of purifying, shaving all their body hair, and washing their clothes—all meticulously designed to ceremonially cleanse them, preparing them to approach and serve a holy God in His sanctuary. The thoroughness of these rituals underscores the profound holiness required for those engaged in divine ministry under the Old Covenant.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 8:7 is an integral part of a larger section (Numbers 8:5-26) dedicated to the solemn consecration of the Levites. This passage immediately follows the instructions for the lighting of the menorah (Numbers 8:1-4), emphasizing the divine order and the necessity of purity in all aspects of Tabernacle worship. The Levites, though distinct from the Aaronite priests, were indispensable for the Tabernacle's operation, responsible for its meticulous care, transport, and assisting the priests in their duties. Their purification, as detailed in this verse, served as the foundational prerequisite before their formal presentation to the Lord (Numbers 8:8) and the symbolic laying on of hands by the Israelites (Numbers 8:10), signifying their dedication and transfer to God's exclusive service. The subsequent verses (Numbers 8:11-26) elaborate on their presentation, the atonement made on their behalf, and their specific responsibilities and age limits for service, thereby highlighting their unique, divinely appointed role as substitutes for the firstborn of Israel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** These instructions were given to Israel during their pivotal wilderness wanderings, a period critical for shaping their national and religious identity. The Tabernacle, serving as God's mobile dwelling place amidst His people, was the absolute center of their worship and communal life. In ancient Israelite religion, the concept of ritual purity was paramount, directly reflecting the absolute holiness of God. Any approach to God, especially in sacred service, demanded a state of ceremonial cleanness to avert divine wrath, as tragically illustrated by the fate of Nadab and Abihu in [Leviticus 10:1-3](/leviticus/10-1-3 "Leviticus 10:1-3 - Nadab and Abihu's Unholy Fire"). The specific actions prescribed—sprinkling, shaving, and washing—were common elements in various purification rites within the Mosaic Law, seen, for instance, in the cleansing of lepers in [Leviticus 14](/leviticus/14 "Leviticus 14 - Laws Concerning Leprosy") or those defiled by a corpse in [Numbers 19](/numbers/19 "Numbers 19 - The Red Heifer and Purification from Defilement"). However, the command to "shave all their flesh" was an unusually drastic and thorough measure, symbolizing a complete removal of any previous defilement and a radical setting apart for their new, holy identity and role. This comprehensive cleansing underscored the immense sanctity of their calling and the meticulousness God required for those who would serve in His presence.
* **Key Themes:** Numbers 8:7 significantly contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. The most prominent is the theme of **Holiness and Purity**, emphasizing that a holy God demands purity from all who would draw near to Him, especially those in sacred service. This verse highlights the theme of **Consecration and Separation**, illustrating how individuals are set apart from the common realm for divine purposes through specific, divinely mandated rituals. It also reinforces the theme of **Divine Order and Authority**, demonstrating that God Himself prescribes the exact means by which His servants are to be prepared, leaving no room for human innovation. Furthermore, the meticulous nature of the cleansing points to the theme of **Atonement and Cleansing**, foreshadowing the need for a deeper, spiritual cleansing from sin. The Levites' role as substitutes for the firstborn (Numbers 8:16-18) also connects to the theme of **Substitutionary Service**, where one is chosen and prepared to stand in the place of others before God. The entire process underscores the absolute necessity of ritual fitness for engaging in the worship of the [holy God of Israel](/exodus/19-6 "Exodus 19:6 - A Holy Nation").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **cleanse (Hebrew, _ṭâhêr'_):** From H2891, this primitive root signifies to be bright, and by implication, to be pure. It encompasses physical soundness, Levitical uncontamination, and moral innocence or holiness. In Numbers 8:7, its repeated use emphasizes the absolute necessity of ritual purity, removing all defilement to make the Levites ceremonially acceptable and fit to approach God and participate in sacred activities without incurring divine displeasure.
* **purifying (Hebrew, _chaṭṭâʼâh'_):** From H2403, this noun refers to an offense or sin, but also its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, or expiation. In this context, within the phrase "water of purifying," it specifically denotes purification for sin or ceremonial defilement, not atonement for moral transgression. It signifies the means by which ritual impurity is addressed, conceptually linking to a sin-offering or the removal of defilement.
* **shave (Hebrew, _ʻâbar'_):** From H5674, this root means to cross over, widely used for any transition. In this specific context, when used with H8593 (`taʻar`, a razor), it carries the meaning of making bare or removing, thus signifying to shave. This radical act symbolizes a complete stripping away of the old, common identity and a profound setting apart for a new, sacred purpose, representing a total break from their previous state.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thus shalt thou do unto them, to cleanse them":** This opening clause serves as a divine mandate, establishing that the subsequent actions are not merely suggestions but direct commands from God, communicated through Moses. The explicit purpose, "to cleanse them," immediately highlights the central theme of purity and the necessity of ritual fitness for the Levites' sacred service. This cleansing is a prerequisite for their divine appointment.
* **"Sprinkle water of purifying upon them,"** This is the initial and symbolic act of purification. The method of sprinkling, rather than full immersion, suggests a ceremonial application of a specially prepared water, which possesses the divinely appointed power to remove ritual defilement and consecrate the individual. It signifies a divine washing that sets the Levites apart from their common state.
* **"and let them shave all their flesh,"** This is the most striking and comprehensive command within the purification ritual. The directive to shave all body hair—an extreme and unusual measure—symbolizes a complete stripping away of their former, common identity. It represents a radical break from their previous state and a profound, visible commitment to a new, consecrated life dedicated solely to God's service, signifying total separation and transformation.
* **"and let them wash their clothes,"** This instruction complements the personal cleansing, ensuring that their garments, which are an extension of their person and could carry defilement, are also thoroughly purified. This signifies a comprehensive cleansing, encompassing both the individual's body (symbolically) and their external appearance, leaving no aspect of their being untouched by the purification process.
* **"and [so] make themselves clean."** This concluding phrase reiterates the ultimate goal and outcome of these meticulous rites. Through their obedience to these divinely appointed actions, the Levites are rendered ceremonially "clean," meaning they are now ritually pure, fit, and qualified to enter into the presence of God and perform their sacred duties in the Tabernacle.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 8:7 is rich in literary devices that amplify its theological significance. The **Repetition** of the concept of "cleanse" (from the Hebrew root _ṭâhêr_) at the beginning and end of the verse forms an **Inclusio**, powerfully framing the entire purification process and underscoring the paramount importance of purity. The verse functions as an **Instructional Passage**, providing precise, step-by-step commands for a ritual process, characteristic of legal and cultic texts in the Pentateuch. Each action—sprinkling, shaving, washing—is profoundly **Symbolic**. The "water of purifying" symbolizes divine cleansing and separation from defilement. The radical act of "shaving all their flesh" represents a complete shedding of the old self and a total dedication to a new, holy identity, signifying a profound break from their former commonness. Washing their clothes further symbolizes a comprehensive external purification, ensuring no aspect remains defiled. The sequence of actions presents a clear **Process**, moving from an initial symbolic application of water to a radical physical transformation, culminating in a state of ritual purity. The pervasive use of **Imperative Verbs** ("shalt thou do," "sprinkle," "shave," "wash") emphasizes the divine authority behind these commands and the non-negotiable nature of the requirements for sacred service.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 8:7 profoundly illustrates the theological principle that God's absolute holiness demands purity from all who would serve Him. The meticulous and rigorous nature of the Levites' cleansing rituals underscores that access to God and participation in His sacred work are not casual matters but require intentional, thorough, and divinely prescribed preparation. This passage teaches us that divine service is not based on human merit or convenience, but solely on God's sovereign command and His provision of the necessary means for purification. The Levites' physical cleansing foreshadows the deeper spiritual cleansing necessary for all who would draw near to God, emphasizing that a holy God requires a holy people, set apart for His purposes. The Old Testament consistently affirms this truth, from the initial consecration of the priests to the broader call for Israel to be a holy nation.

* [Leviticus 10:3](/leviticus/10-3 "Leviticus 10:3 - God's Holiness Demands Purity")
* [Hebrews 12:14](/hebrews/12-14 "Hebrews 12:14 - Pursue Peace and Holiness")
* [1 Peter 1:15-16](/1_peter/1-15-16 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be Holy as I Am Holy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific rituals of Numbers 8:7 belong to the Old Covenant's ceremonial law, the underlying spiritual principles of purity, consecration, and thoroughness in preparation for God's service remain profoundly relevant for believers today. Just as the Levites were set apart for the Tabernacle, Christians are called to be a "royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), serving God in every aspect of their lives. This passage challenges us to consider the depth of purity God desires in our hearts, minds, and actions. It's not about superficial acts, but a radical transformation that sheds the "old self" and embraces a new identity in Christ. Our preparation for service involves a continuous process of spiritual cleansing through repentance, confession, and reliance on the Holy Spirit, ensuring that our lives are truly set apart for God's glory and that we live in a manner worthy of our high calling.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What areas of your life might God be calling you to "shave" away or thoroughly cleanse to better serve Him with radical dedication?**
* **How does the thoroughness of the Levites' cleansing challenge your understanding and pursuit of spiritual purity and dedication in your daily walk with God?**
* **In what practical ways do you actively pursue spiritual cleansing and preparation for your daily "service" to God, recognizing your role as part of His holy priesthood?**

### FAQ
**Why was such a drastic measure as "shaving all their flesh" required for the Levites?**

Answer: The command to "shave all their flesh" (Numbers 8:7) was an exceptionally drastic and thorough measure, symbolizing a complete and radical break from their former common life and a total dedication to God. In ancient Israel, hair was often associated with strength, natural state, or could even be linked to pagan practices. Its complete removal signified a stripping away of their old identity and any potential defilement, marking them as entirely set apart and consecrated for their unique, sacred role in the Tabernacle. This was a visible and physical act of complete separation and a fresh start, emphasizing the profound holiness required for those who would serve in God's immediate presence. This thoroughness ensured no lingering impurity from their previous state remained as they entered sacred service, highlighting the absolute sanctity of their calling.

**What was the "water of purifying" and how did it differ from ordinary water?**

Answer: The "water of purifying" (Hebrew: *mayim chaṭṭâʼâh*), mentioned in Numbers 8:7, was not ordinary water but a specially prepared mixture used for ritual purification. While its exact composition for the Levites' consecration is not explicitly detailed in this verse, it is conceptually linked to the "water of separation" described in [Numbers 19](/numbers/19 "Numbers 19 - The Red Heifer and Purification from Defilement"), which involved the ashes of a red heifer mixed with running water. Its purpose was to cleanse from ritual impurity, such as defilement from touching a corpse, rather than to atone for moral sin. This water, therefore, possessed a divinely appointed ceremonial efficacy, enabling the Levites to be ceremonially cleansed and made fit to approach and serve a holy God in His sanctuary. It was a means of ritual purification, setting apart those who were otherwise common for sacred use.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous cleansing of the Levites in Numbers 8:7 finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "water of purifying" and the radical act of "shaving all their flesh" were powerful shadows pointing to the complete and spiritual cleansing accomplished by Christ. Unlike the Levites, who required repeated ritual purifications due to their inherent sinfulness and the temporary nature of the Old Covenant rituals, Jesus, through His once-for-all sacrifice on the cross, provides a perfect and eternal cleansing. His precious blood is the true "water of purifying" that cleanses not just from ceremonial defilement but from all sin, purifying our consciences from dead works to serve the living God ([Hebrews 9:13-14](/hebrews/9-13-14 "Hebrews 9:13-14 - The Blood of Christ Purifies Conscience")). The symbolic "shaving of all their flesh" foreshadows the spiritual circumcision of Christ, where believers "put off the body of the flesh" through union with Him, a circumcision made without hands ([Colossians 2:11](/colossians/2-11 "Colossians 2:11 - Circumcision of Christ")). Through Christ, we are not merely ritually clean but spiritually regenerated, washed by the "washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit" ([Titus 3:5](/titus/3-5 "Titus 3:5 - Washing of Regeneration and Renewal by the Holy Spirit")). He is the Lamb of God who truly takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), making us a holy priesthood, fit to offer spiritual sacrifices and serve God not in a physical tabernacle, but in spirit and truth ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - A Spiritual House and Holy Priesthood")).

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

Numbers 19:7

Then the priest shall wash his clothes, and he shall bathe his flesh in water, and afterward he shall come into the camp, and the priest shall be unclean until the even.

Numbers 19:10

And he that gathereth the ashes of the heifer shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even: and it shall be unto the children of Israel, and unto the stranger that sojourneth among them, for a statute for ever.

Numbers 19:13

Whosoever toucheth the dead body of any man that is dead, and purifieth not himself, defileth the tabernacle of the LORD; and that soul shall be cut off from Israel: because the water of separation was not sprinkled upon him, he shall be unclean; his uncleanness [is] yet upon him.

Leviticus 8:6

And Moses brought Aaron and his sons, and washed them with water.

James 4:8

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse [your] hands, [ye] sinners; and purify [your] hearts, [ye] double minded.

Genesis 35:2

Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that [were] with him, Put away the strange gods that [are] among you, and be clean, and change your garments:

Psalms 51:2

Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.