Numbers 19:13 Meaning and Explanation
“Whosoever toucheth the dead body of any man that is dead, and purifieth not himself, defileth the tabernacle of the LORD; and that soul shall be cut off from Israel: because the water of separation was not sprinkled upon him, he shall be unclean; his uncleanness is yet upon him.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Failure to purify defiles the tabernacle and results in being cut off from Israel.
The Context of Numbers 19:13
Neglecting purification brings severe judgment.
What Does Numbers 19:13 Mean?
Neglecting the purification ritual has severe consequences: the person contaminates the sanctuary itself and faces expulsion from the community. The tabernacle's sanctity is directly threatened by unresolved death-uncleanness.
The phrase 'cut off from Israel' indicates excommunication or death penalty. This emphasizes that purification is not optional but essential to maintaining the nation's relationship with God.
Numbers 19:13 in the Original Language
niddah (נִדָּה) — here the 'water of separation' is the remedy; its omission leaves uncleanness intact and defiles the sanctuary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 19:13
What does Numbers 19:13 mean?
Failure to purify defiles the tabernacle and results in being cut off from Israel.
What is the context of Numbers 19:13?
Neglecting purification brings severe judgment.