Uncleanness

Ritual or ceremonial “uncleanness” was a principle emphasized throughout the Law of Moses, particularly in Leviticus 10-15.  It is also mentioned in Leviticus 18-22; Numbers 5-9, 18-19; Deuteronomy 12-15; Ezekiel 22; 24; 36-37; 39; 43-44.  The Hebrew term tame means to “become ceremonially unclean, defiled.”[1]  Certain animals were “unclean” as well as people, houses, fabrics, emissions, aspects of childbirth, and others.

Beyond the ritualistic, immorality (Leviticus 18:24-25), idolatry (20:3-5; Psalm 106:38), and murder (Numbers 35:33) also brought uncleanness.  No one who was unclean could enter the temple (2 Chronicles 23:19).  Aaron the high priest was to “make atonement for the holy place, because of the impurities [or uncleanness] of the sons of Israel and because of their transgressions in regard to all their sins” (Leviticus 16:16a).

In the New Testament, akathartos means “unclean, impure.”[2]  It is frequently used of “unclean spirits” in the synoptic gospels (cf. Matthew 10:1; 12:43; Mark 1:23, 26; 3:11, 30; 5:2, 8, 13; 6:7; 7:25; 9:25) and could be used of ritual uncleanness as well (Acts 10:14, 28; 11:8).

It is especially used of moral impurity.  Paul speaks of those who had not repented of “the impurity, immorality and sensuality which they have practiced” (2 Corinthians 12:21).  “Immorality, impurity, sensuality” are “deeds of the flesh” that will bar one from entering the kingdom of God (Galatians 5:19-21).  We must consider “the members” of our “earthly body as dead” to “immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed” (Colossians 3:5).  Again, we see that moral “impurity” (or uncleanness) is classified with other sexual sins (see also Revelation 17:4).

Paul insists, “Immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints” (Ephesians 5:3; cf. 4:19).  He then says, “This you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God,” and “the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience” (vv. 5, 6).  Indeed, impurity and uncleanness will keep one from inheriting God’s kingdom! We must rid ourselves from this fleshly sin!

[1] Mounce, Expository Dictionary.

[2] W. E. Vine, Expository Dictionary.