Leviticus 14:29

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.

And the rest {H3498} of the oil {H8081} that is in the priest's {H3548} hand {H3709} he shall put {H5414} upon the head {H7218} of him that is to be cleansed {H2891}, to make an atonement {H3722} for him before {H6440} the LORD {H3068}.

Finally, the cohen is to put the rest of the oil in his hand on the head of the person being purified, to make atonement for him before ADONAI.

The rest of the oil in his palm, the priest is to put on the head of the one to be cleansed, to make atonement for him before the LORD.

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 atonement for him before Jehovah.

Commentary

Context

Leviticus 14:29 is part of the elaborate instructions for the purification ritual of a person healed from tsara'at, often translated as leprosy, but likely referring to a broader category of severe skin diseases. This chapter outlines a two-part cleansing process. The first part (verses 1-9) involves initial purification outside the camp, while the second part (verses 10-32) describes sacrifices and applications performed at the tabernacle entrance. This specific verse concludes the application of consecrated oil, following its application to the right ear, thumb, and toe of the cleansed individual (as described in Leviticus 14:17).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Complete Purification and Atonement: The act of putting the remaining oil on the head signifies the culmination of the cleansing process. The entire person, from extremities to the head, is consecrated and purified. This elaborate ritual emphasized that serious impurity required a thorough and divinely prescribed method for restoration to the community and to God's presence. The phrase "to make an atonement for him before the LORD" underscores that the purpose is reconciliation and forgiveness for the defilement caused by the disease.
  • Symbolism of Oil: In biblical tradition, oil often symbolizes the Holy Spirit, consecration, blessing, and healing. Its application here suggests the imparting of God's grace and presence, marking the individual as set apart and restored to wholeness. This anointing was not merely physical but held deep spiritual significance for the individual's spiritual standing.
  • Priestly Mediation: The priest's role was central to these rituals, acting as a mediator between God and the people. His actions ensured that the purification was performed according to divine command, making the individual acceptable before the Lord.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "atonement" is kaphar (כָּפַר), which literally means "to cover" or "to make propitiation." In the context of the sacrificial system, it signifies a covering of sin or impurity, allowing for reconciliation with a holy God. The oil, shemen (שֶׁמֶן), was a special, consecrated oil, distinct from common oil, reinforcing its sacred purpose in this ritual.

Practical Application

While the specific ritual for leprosy cleansing is no longer practiced, the principles behind it offer enduring lessons. This verse highlights God's meticulous care for purity and His provision for restoration. It reminds us that:

  • God provides a way for cleansing and reconciliation from sin and defilement. Just as the leper needed a priest, we need a mediator. The New Testament points to Jesus Christ as our ultimate High Priest, who made the perfect and final atonement for sin through His blood.
  • Spiritual restoration involves a complete work, touching every part of our being. The application of oil from extremities to the head symbolizes a comprehensive sanctification.
  • The symbolism of oil points to the Holy Spirit's role in our lives, bringing cleansing, anointing, and empowering us for a life of holiness after spiritual purification. This echoes the promise of the new covenant where God puts His Spirit within us.
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Cross-References

  • Leviticus 14:18 (4 votes)

    And the remnant of the oil that [is] in the priest's hand he shall pour upon the head of him that is to be cleansed: and the priest shall make an atonement for him before the LORD.

  • 1 John 2:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:

  • 1 John 2:2 (3 votes)

    And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for [the sins of] the whole world.

  • John 17:19 (2 votes)

    And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.

  • 1 John 5:6 (2 votes)

    ¶ This is he that came by water and blood, [even] Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.

  • Exodus 30:15 (2 votes)

    The rich shall not give more, and the poor shall not give less than half a shekel, when [they] give an offering unto the LORD, to make an atonement for your souls.

  • Exodus 30:16 (2 votes)

    And thou shalt take the atonement money of the children of Israel, and shalt appoint it for the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; that it may be a memorial unto the children of Israel before the LORD, to make an atonement for your souls.