What’s the meaning of this odd ritual for cleansing a leper? (Leviticus 14:4–7)

What’s the meaning of this odd ritual? (Leviticus 14:4–7)

4 then shall the priest command to take for him that is to be cleansed two birds alive and clean, and cedar wood, and scarlet, and hyssop.

5 And the priest shall command that one of the birds be killed in an earthen vessel over running water.

6 As for the living bird, he shall take it, and the cedar wood, and the scarlet, and the hyssop, and shall dip them and the living bird in the blood of the bird that was killed over the running water.

7 And he shall sprinkle upon him that is to be cleansed from the leprosy seven times, and shall pronounce him clean and shall let the living bird loose into the open field. (KJ21)

Leviticus 14:1 - 15:33

ESV - ¹ The Lord spoke to Moses, saying. ² This shall be the law of the leprous person for the day of his cleansing. He shall be brought to the priest.

Clarify • Share • Report • Asked November 27 2018 • Jack Gutknecht