Childbearing is a happy process in family life. But in Leviticus 12, there is seriousness and sobriety in childbearing. We can learn some principles from Leviticus 12.

1. The Recognising of Uncleanness (Lev 12:1-5)

Leviticus 12:1-4 prescribes the law of uncleanness upon the birth of a baby boy, while Leviticus 12:5 prescribes the law of uncleanness upon the birth of a baby girl.

In verse 1, “infirmity” does not refer to a physical affliction. It describes the woman’s uncleanness upon the birth of her baby, and thus she cannot come into contact with anyone. The cause of uncleanness is the loss of blood during the birth of the baby. There is ceremonial uncleanness, not moral uncleanness, when there is a loss of blood. Leviticus 17:11 explains the reason. When blood is shed, it is a reminder of mortality, it speaks of death. Life is in the blood. Thus, even when giving birth (i.e. when a life is born), there is still a need to remember the reality that there will be death. God is the One who gives life, and He is the One who controls life (and death). It is a sober reminder that if this child does not have salvation in Christ, he will die in his sins. 

2. The Differentiating of Uncleanness (Lev 12:5)

The difference in giving birth to a boy or a girl is that the boy child will be circumcised on the eighth day. Because of the law of circumcision, the days of uncleanness and purification upon the birth of boy is halved.

Circumcision is the sign to remind the people that they are God's covenantal people. Circumcision marks the membership into God’s covenantal relationship.

For us today, infant baptism replaces circumcision. Just as a child is not automatically saved because of circumcision, likewise for infant baptism. The child must still himself believe in the Lord Jesus. Thus, circumcision and infant baptism are to remind parents to bring up their child to know God and to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ.

3. The Provision for Uncleanness (Lev 12:6-8)

There is provision for atonement, purification and restoration to cleanness. This will be a reminder for parents to know that their children will also need the Saviour to atone for their sins.

Children are gifts from God and their lives are entrusted by God to us. Parents are to remember and provide the means of bringing them to know God and believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour.