Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Numbers - Chapter 35 - Verse 33

35:33
So ye shall not pollute the land wherein ye are: for blood it defileth the land: and the land cannot be cleansed of the blood that is shed therein, but by the blood of him that shed it.

Meaning

This verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining purity and justice within the land where one resides. It warns against polluting the land with violence or shedding innocent blood, as it defiles the very ground on which people live. The verse highlights the idea that the shedding of blood creates a stain on the land that cannot be easily removed. The only way to cleanse the land of this defilement is by holding the one responsible for the bloodshed accountable. In biblical times, the shedding of blood was seen as a serious offense that required atonement through bloodshed. This verse serves as a reminder to uphold justice, prevent violence, and maintain the sanctity of the land in order to live in harmony and righteousness.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the concept of bloodshed and its consequences is discussed in a theological context. The importance of maintaining the holiness of the land where the people reside is emphasized, as it is believed that the shedding of blood pollutes the land. This pollution cannot be cleansed by ordinary means, but only by the shedding of the blood of the one who committed the act. This principle reflects the seriousness with which bloodshed is viewed in the Bible, as it is seen as a defilement that requires atonement. Furthermore, the emphasis on the shedding of blood to cleanse the land highlights the belief in the necessity of sacrificial offerings to make amends for sins committed. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the spiritual significance of bloodshed and the need for atonement to restore purity and holiness to the land.

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