Defilement

Dictionary of Biblical Words:

Whatever does not suit the presence and holiness of God. In the Old Testament, when -the presence of God was in the holiest, and sanctified the camp, the accidental touching of a dead body caused defilement and exclusion. In the New, “the thought of foolishness is sin,” and a “root of bitterness” defiles mane The remedy for the defilement constantly contracted by a -careless or sinful walk, is the washing of water by the word (see Num. 19 and John 13), causing one to feel sorrow for the evil, and to judge it; and upon confession (1 John 1) communion is restored.