Purification

In the Bible, purification refers to the process of becoming clean or free from impurities, sin, or ritual uncleanliness. This concept is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, where various laws and rituals were established to maintain holiness among the people of Israel. For example, Leviticus outlines numerous purification rituals, including those for leprosy, bodily discharges, and contact with dead bodies (Leviticus 11-15). The act of purification often involved the use of water, sacrifices, or the application of specific rites, symbolizing the removal of sin or the restoration of a person's status before God.In the New Testament, purification takes on a more profound spiritual significance, particularly in the teachings of Jesus. He emphasizes the need for inner purity over external rituals, as seen in Matthew 23:25-26, where He criticizes the Pharisees for focusing on outward cleanliness while neglecting the heart. Additionally, the concept of purification is linked to the sacrifice of Jesus, who, through His death and resurrection, provides a means for believers to be cleansed from sin (Hebrews 9:14). Thus, purification in the biblical context encompasses both the physical and spiritual realms, highlighting the necessity of being made clean before God to foster a right relationship with Him.

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