Definition: And ye shall wash your clothes on the seventh day, and ye shall be clean, and afterward ye shall come into the camp.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 31:24. It’s a really interesting one that speaks to a bit of a unique practice in ancient Israel! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse tells us to wash our clothes on the seventh day of the week. It’s not just about cleanliness; it’s connected to a specific event and a symbolic cleansing. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And ye shall wash your clothes…” : This is a straightforward instruction – we need to clean our linens. “…on the seventh day…” : This is the key part! It’s not just any day of the week; it’s the seventh day. This seven-day cycle was important for Jewish tradition and is linked to God's creation. Think of it as a 'rest' day, but with a specific purpose. “…and ye shall be clean…” : This emphasizes the result – we’re getting rid of dirt and impurities. “and afterward ye shall come into the camp.” : This is where it gets interesting. The “camp” refers to a special area where the Israelites gathered for prayer, worship, and communal life. Coming "into the camp" signifies returning to that place after the washing. What’s the Big Picture? This verse is connected to a ritual called Shma'ah (or Shmita ). It was a period of rest and abstention from farming and labor, usually every seven years. During this time, the people were instructed to: 1. Wash their clothes: This was a way to symbolically cleanse themselves of any lingering impurity or negative energy. 2. Return to the camp: This return wasn't just about a physical change; it was a spiritual one – a return to God and community after being separated from them for a period of rest. In essence, this verse is a reminder that even in times of rest and recovery, there’s an important connection back to God and the community. Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the symbolism behind this particular passage? Connect it to a broader theme in Jewish tradition (like Sabbath observance)?