Leviticus 12:6 Meaning and Explanation
“And when the days of her purifying are fulfilled, for a son, or for a daughter, she shall bring a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, and a young pigeon, or a turtledove, for a sin offering, unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, unto the priest:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →After purification is complete, the mother brings a lamb and a pigeon or turtledove to the priest to restore her to ritual cleanness.
The Context of Leviticus 12:6
The mother's offerings at the tabernacle door restore her ritual cleanness after the purification period.
What Does Leviticus 12:6 Mean?
Once the purification period ends, the mother brings two offerings: a lamb for a burnt offering and a young pigeon or turtledove for a sin offering. These sacrifices do not expiate guilt or shame but function as ritual vehicles for restoring the mother to her full status within the community and permitting her re-entry to the sanctuary. The burnt offering ascends to God as an act of dedication, while the sin offering addresses the state of impurity that has now been completed.
The requirement applies equally whether she has borne a son or daughter, emphasizing that both children call forth the same sacrificial restoration process. The mother presents these offerings at the tabernacle door, where the priest receives them and performs the purification rites, officially reincorporating her into full participation in Israel's worship and community life.
Leviticus 12:6 in the Original Language
'olah (עלה), 'burnt offering' — a sacrifice that ascends wholly to God, representing dedication and atonement
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 12:6
What does Leviticus 12:6 mean?
After purification is complete, the mother brings a lamb and a pigeon or turtledove to the priest to restore her to ritual cleanness.
What is the context of Leviticus 12:6?
The mother's offerings at the tabernacle door restore her ritual cleanness after the purification period.