The entire chapter 15 of Leviticus peaked my interest. I long believed that the contents of the bible is true and factual, and my conviction strengthened because of the book of Leviticus.
Leviticus 15 talked about the invisible enemies of our health, while Psalm 18 deals with the visible enemies of David.
Scripture
Leviticus 15:1-33 / Psalm 18:1-50
Brief Overview
Leviticus 15
Leviticus 15 talks about the laws regarding the discharges of man and woman. Furthermore, it dealt on how the Israelites will address and what will be their practices regarding the issue. Moses (author of the book of Leviticus) explained what is the reason for these laws at the end of the chapter,
Psalm 18
King David (writer) gave thanks to God by glorifying His name and mentioning instances that the Lord delivered him from his oppressors.
Observation
Lev. 15:31 KJV “Thus shall ye separate the children of Israel from their uncleanness; that they die not in their uncleanness, when they defile my tabernacle that is among them.”
Psalm 18:30 KJV “As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried (proven): he is a buckler (shield) to all those that trust in him.”
Application
Is the Bible factual or fictional?
This issue is an ongoing debate even up to this day. There are two types of people who read the bible:
- Those who believe that the bible is inspired by God and therefore is true.
- Those who think it is written and produced by the human’s mind.
I have learned 5 facts from the chapters we just have read and I would want to share them with you.
Proof #1: Leviticus 15:31
Isolation and Quarantine
The Israelites practiced Isolation and Quarantine for those people with contagious illness. Leviticus 15:31 shows that God has taught them the need for it. In addition, God specified to Moses the days and procedures needed for the person to separate himself/herself until he/she is clean.
People with diseases are treated as an outcast throughout history. Moreover, they are not allowed within the town walls, or in the case of the Israelites within the camp grounds.
Proof #2: Leviticus 15:4-12; 20-27
Principles of Contact Transmission and Precaution
Direct and Indirect contact transmits many types of illnesses. Leviticus 15:4-12 and 20-27 illustrates the basic principles of contact transmissions and how the Israelites can prevent contamination.
Contact precautions are used in the healthcare field to protect the healthcare workers and other patients. Healthcare staff uses protective gears, e.g. gowns, gloves and masks, to prevent contracting any diseases while caring for the patients.
Proof #3: Leviticus 15:13
Hand Hygiene
Ignaz Semmelweis and Florence Nightingale pioneered the practice of hand washing in the mid 19th century. The former was treating women after child birth and the latter cared for wounded soldiers. During this time, water in bowls and other cleaning products were used to wash their hands. During that time, the infections and contamination did decrease but was not entirely eliminated.
Hand hygiene was already established even before the 19th century. Leviticus 15:13 shows that God already taught the Israelites how to clean or sanctify themselves. Furthermore, the Bible states that washing should be done with running water.
Proof #4: Leviticus 15:18
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) are another information that we can find in the Bible. Leviticus 15:18 shows that when a man has a certain illness, he may transfer it to his wife through sexual intercourse. Additionally, in Romans 1:27 ESV “and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error.” talked about how one can acquire another type of STI, e.g. HIV.
I am a nurse by profession and learning that the Bible talked about these issues, even before the advancement in the healthcare system, amazes me.
Proof #5: Psalm 18:4-5
Reality about death
We are not inevitable, we all die. No matter whether we believe in Jesus Christ or not, it does not exempt us from death and Psalm 18:4-5 proves this. When God told Adam and Eve not to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil because they will die (Genesis 2:17). God did not mean an instant death, rather He meant that man will be separated from His presence (eternity) and will eventually die. Moreover, the Bible explains it in Romans 6:23 KJV“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord”. The real question that we should be concern about is where do we go after we die.
Last thought
If the Bible is not true and does not hold facts, then why do our practices, ways of life and some discoveries can be found in it?
Prayer
God, You are the source of all truths. We thank You Lord, for giving us Jesus who is The Truth, that through Him, Your glory, love and justice was made known to men. Let us know Your truth and be able to apply them to our daily lives. Let Your Holy Spirit direct us in everything we do, that we may not stir away from Your presence. Amen.
