Definition: Who shall offer it before the LORD, and make an atonement for her; and she shall be cleansed from the issue of her blood. This [is] the law for her that hath born a male or a female.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 12:7. It’s a really important passage about caring for women who have experienced childbirth and protecting them from harm. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a specific set of rules and procedures that were established to ensure the safety and well-being of women after giving birth, particularly when there was a risk of blood loss. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Who shall offer it before the LORD…” : This refers to someone who is praying or seeking God's help for a woman experiencing childbirth. It emphasizes that this isn’t about offering something to God in a general way, but specifically to her during a difficult time. “…and make an atonement for her…” : This means the person needs to do something to ease the pain and potential problems associated with childbirth, like bleeding. It’s about finding a way to make things right for her. “She shall be cleansed from the issue of her blood.” : This is the key part! "The issue of her blood" refers to the small amount of blood that can sometimes leak during childbirth. The law required this person to take specific steps to stop the bleeding and prevent infection. “This [is] the law for her that hath born a male or a female.” : This clarifies what the atonement is for. It’s specifically for women who have given birth, and it's about ensuring they are safe and healthy after childbirth. In short, this verse lays out a legal requirement for women to be cared for after giving birth to prevent harm and ensure their safety. Why was this law established? Historically, women were vulnerable during childbirth due to the risks involved. This law was designed to protect them from potential dangers and promote their well-being. It's a reminder of respect and care for women in the early days of Jewish practice. Important Note: This is a specific passage from ancient Hebrew scripture. Modern understanding often goes beyond its literal meaning, recognizing it as a foundational principle of compassion and safeguarding vulnerable people. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that you’d like me to answer? For example, would you like me to: Explain the historical context of this law? Discuss the symbolism behind it?