Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 35:33. It’s a pretty serious message about respect for the earth and its creatures. Here's a simplified explanation: What it means in plain language: “You shall not pollute the land where you dwell; for blood defileth the land, and the land cannot be cleansed of the blood that is shed therein, but by the blood of him who sheds it.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "You shall not pollute the land where you dwell..." – This means we have a responsibility to take care of the environment around us. It's about being mindful and avoiding actions that harm or desecrate nature. Think of it like keeping your home clean - you don’t want to leave messes behind. "...for blood defileth the land..." – This is the core of the verse. Blood, especially when spilled or carelessly used, has a powerful impact on the earth. It's believed to have a spiritual significance that can cause harm and sickness. "...and the land cannot be cleansed of the blood that is shed therein..." - The land cannot be made clean because of the bloodshed. It’s not just about physical dirt; it’s about the emotional and spiritual consequences of violence or wrongdoing. "...but by the blood of him who sheds it." – This is a crucial part. It implies that repentance, forgiveness, and atonement are necessary to heal the land. The “blood” refers to repentance – acknowledging your mistakes and making amends for harming God’s creation. It's about offering a sacrifice to make things right. In essence, the verse is saying: Treating the earth with respect and avoiding harm will be rewarded by God, and it requires a willingness to atone for wrongs through repentance and forgiveness. It’s a call to responsibility towards our environment and humanity. Context & Significance (Briefly): This passage often appears in the Old Testament, particularly in the Book of Numbers, and is connected to stories about the Israelites' exile from Egypt. It highlights the importance of remembering the consequences of violence and striving for righteousness. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Give you an example of how it relates to a specific story or event in biblical history?