Definition: But he shall let go the living bird out of the city into the open fields, and make an atonement for the house: and it shall be clean.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 14:53. It's a pretty interesting and slightly unusual passage! Here’s a simple explanation: What it means in plain English: “But he shall let go the living bird out of the city into the open fields, and make an atonement for the house: and it shall be clean.” Let’s unpack it word by word: “But he shall let go…” – This is a command from God. He's telling something to happen. “…the living bird…” - This refers to birds, specifically pigeons or doves. The word "living" emphasizes that these are creatures who are alive and capable of movement. “…out of the city into the open fields…” – This is a really important part. It means they're being released from the confines of a city (likely Jerusalem) and placed in a rural, open area – like farmland or a pasture. “and make an atonement for the house…” - This is key! “Atonement” means to make things right, to forgive something wrong. God is saying he's giving these birds a chance to be cleansed and made clean. “and it shall be clean.” – This is the final message: The birds are now considered clean enough to be released and allowed to live freely in the open fields. What’s the significance? This verse is a bit mysterious and has been interpreted in different ways throughout history. It suggests that God has a special relationship with birds, and perhaps even with specific types of birds. It could be seen as a symbolic way for God to allow certain animals – like birds – to live freely in nature. Important Note: This is an ancient text, and its meaning was often more about symbolic representation than literal understanding. It's not meant to be taken literally today! --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the symbolism behind this passage? Provide a little context for when this verse appears in the Bible?