Boyd’s Bible Dictionary:
(cleansing). A ritualistic form and sanitary precaution among Hebrews (Lev. 14:4-32; Mark 7:3-4; John 11:55).
Concise Bible Dictionary:
In the law there were many ceremonial defilements, each of which had its appointed purification. To these the scribes and Pharisees added others, such as washing the hands before eating, washing cups and plates—being very zealous in these things, while within they were full of extortion and excess (Mark 7:2-8). In Christianity the purification required extends to the heart (Acts 15:9; James 4:8); the soul (1 Peter 1:22); and the conscience through the blood of Christ (Heb. 9:14).
Strong’s Dictionary of Greek Words:
Transliteration:
hagnismos
Meaning:
from 48; a cleansing (the act), i.e. (ceremonially) lustration