Numbers 19:1-22

The Sacrifice of the red Heifer

In order to provide a special means of purification for those who are defiled by contact with a dead body, a preparation called the 'water of separation' is made from the ashes of a red heifer and other ingredients. The origin of this rite may have been connected with the large number of deaths recorded in Numbers 16:49. Josephus, however, connects it with the death of Miriam (Numbers 20:1).

1-10. A red heifer is slaughtered outside the camp and its blood sprinkled in the direction of the sanctuary seven times (Numbers 19:1). The entire carcase is burnt in the same place along with cedar wood, hyssop, and scarlet wool, and the ashes are collected and preserved for use in purifying (Numbers 19:5; Numbers 19:9). Those who take part in the ceremony contract defilement (Numbers 19:7; Numbers 19:10).