FEB 18

In the assigned section of Leviticus, we observe near the frequent mentioning of the word ‘pure’. Throughout this certain section of text, purity is referred to as ‘clean’ whilst impurities are naturally referred to as ‘unclean’. We see that the use of cleanliness and purity are entirely for worshiping purposes. The text lists practices and materials which it deems either pure or impure in the eyes of the Lord. The words are used by G-d as he specifies what he considers pure for ritual. G-d requires the maintenance of purity in order to see us become more and more like him. Since G-d is already clean and pure, and his pursuit is to make humans equally clean and pure; he explicitly states how to do so. The logic behind the laws is to maintain order amongst those who worship. The sons of the original fathers described in Genesis are now many, and they must have certain guidelines to follow in order to remain pure in the eyes of G-d. The laws could serve as terms which one must accept in order to be under the care of God, much like previous covenants have shown. The food laws seem to be symbolically the most important, as food is willing brought into the inside of our bodies. G-d clearly explains the foods which are clean and unclean, as food consumption directly affects one’s insides.