Numbers 31:20 Meaning and Explanation
“And purify all your raiment, and all that is made of skins, and all work of goats' hair, and all things made of wood.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →All materials that may have contacted death must be purified by fire or water.
The Context of Numbers 31:20
All material possessions must be ritually purified.
What Does Numbers 31:20 Mean?
The purification extends to all possessions and materials taken in the campaign. Clothing, leather goods, items made from goats' hair (such as tents), and wooden implements all require ritual cleansing. These items represent both personal possessions of the soldiers and materials that could have been contaminated through exposure to the dead or to killing. The comprehensive list ensures that everything returning to the camp has been properly purified.
The focus on these specific materials reflects ancient understanding of purity laws. Organic materials like fabric, leather, hair, and wood were considered capable of retaining impurity and required cleansing. The purification procedures ensure that the conquered materials and possessions are acceptable for use within the holy community of Israel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 31:20
What does Numbers 31:20 mean?
All materials that may have contacted death must be purified by fire or water.
What is the context of Numbers 31:20?
All material possessions must be ritually purified.