DMS_GL_my_tw/bible/kt/unclean.md

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unclean

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "unclean" is used figuratively to refer to things that God declared to be unfit for his people to touch, eat, or sacrifice.

  • God gave the Israelites instructions about which animals were "clean" and which ones were "unclean." The unclean animals were not permitted to be used for eating or for sacrifice.
  • People with certain skin diseases were said to be "unclean" until they were healed.
  • If the Israelites touched something "unclean," they themselves would be considered unclean for a certain period of time.
  • Obeying God's commands about not touching or eating unclean things kept the Israelites set apart for God's service.
  • This physical and ritual uncleanness was also symbolic of moral uncleanness.
  • In another figurative sense, an "unclean spirit" refers to an evil spirit.

Translation Suggestions:

  • The term "unclean" could also be translated as "not clean" or "unfit in God's eyes" or "physically unclean" or "defiled."
  • When referring to a demon as an unclean spirit, "unclean" could be translated as "evil" or "defiled."
  • The translation of this term should allow for spiritual uncleanness. It should be able to refer to anything that God declared as unfit for touching, eating, or sacrifice.

(See also: clean, defile, demon, holy, sacrifice, unholy)

Bible References: