Verse 8
8. Wash his clothes Before his cleansing all the efforts of the leper to purify himself by improving his externals were vain, because these would only be put out of harmony with his inward self. But since his purification such efforts are demanded in order that the “outside of the cup and platter” may correspond with the purity within. Good works as means of regeneration are futile, but as fruits of that divine change they are well pleasing unto God. Galatians 2:16; Galatians 3:2; Titus 2:14; Titus 3:8; Titus 3:14. Washed clothes represent changed habits.
Shave off all his hair As much as possible of his former self he was to leave behind, in order that he might enter into communion with holy people among whom Jehovah abode.
Tarry abroad out of his tent This is an euphemism for abstinence from marital rights, viewed as an uncleanness by the ceremonial law. Exodus 19:15; chap. Leviticus 15:18. His cleansing has been initiated but not completed, and hence he is not yet invested with all his personal rights, especially those which prefigure the most intimate communion with God and his people.
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