Washing was required by the law for purification of uncleanness of any kind, as leprosy, etc. (Leviticus 15; Leviticus 16:28; Leviticus 22:6; Numbers 19:7; Numbers 19:19; 2 Samuel 11:2; 2 Samuel 11:4; 2 Kings 5:10); mourning (Ruth 3:3; 2 Samuel 12:20). The high priest on the day of atonement, before each act of expiation (Leviticus 16:4; Leviticus 16:24); also at his own consecration (Leviticus 8:6). Anointing with perfumes was joined to the washing (Esther 2:12). The laver at the door of the tabernacle was for the priests to wash in before entering (Exodus 30:18-20). The legal ritual prescribed washing, not bathing; also sprinkling. Baptism by immersion is not confirmed by legal types.
From the co-author of the classic Jamieson, Fausset and Brown Commentary, Fausset's Bible Dictionary stands as one of the best single-volume Bible encyclopedias ever written for general use. The author's writing style is always clear and concise, and he tackles issues important to the average student of the Bible, not just the Biblical scholars. This makes Fausset an excellent tool for both everyday Bible study and in-depth lesson or sermon preparation.Wikipedia
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