Purification always involved blood or water because both elements symbolized cleansing, life, and separation from defilement. Blood was associated with atonement, while water signified washing and renewal. Together, they demons/”>demonstrated that true cleansing could only come by God’s provision.
Leviticus 17:11 explains the role of blood:
“For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you upon the altar to make atonement for your souls.”
Blood was central in sacrificial rites because it represented the life that must be given in place of the sinner. Without blood, there could be no remission of sin (Hebrews 9:22). Water, used in ritual washings, symbolized external and internal purification, especially in cases of physical impurity or contact with the unclean.
These two elements worked together: blood for atonement, water for cleansing. The red heifer ritual in Numbers 19 combined both, where ashes mixed with running water were used to purify those defiled by death.
Spiritually, these pointed to the work of Christ. Hebrews 10:22 says:
“Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.”
Jesus’ death fulfilled the symbolism of blood and water. When His side was pierced, both flowed out (John 19:34), showing He alone provides complete purification for sin and defilement.
