Running waters were used in purification rituals to symbolize cleansing, renewal, and the removal of defilement. Unlike stagnant water, living or flowing water represented freshness and life, suitable for restoring ceremonial purity under God’s law.
Leviticus 15:13 says:
“Then he shall wash his clothes and bathe his body in running water, and shall be clean.”
Flowing water, often from a natural source, was not contaminated and visually reinforced the idea of being washed clean from impurity. It served as a physical sign that purification came not by man’s effort but through God’s provision of what is clean and undefiled.
This use of running water foreshadowed spiritual truths. Jesus offered living water to those who thirsted for righteousness (John 4:10, 14). His Spirit cleanses and renews the heart, just as running water cleansed outward impurity.
Titus 3:5 says:
“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit.”
The use of running water taught Israel that only what flows from God brings true cleansing and restoration.
