In this video listen to Leviticus 12 read by David Alley, followed by comments and prayer.

In Leviticus 12 a woman who gives birth to a boy is unclean for 40 days. The number forty appears regularly in the Bible associated with the idea of trial or testing, and often ending with new life, or new blessings. For example Jesus tested for 40 days and then he entered into ministry in the power of the Spirit. So here we see this in the life of a mother and a new boy. This uncleanness isn’t moral, but ceremonial.

This is actually a hugely considerate move by God. When a mother gives birth she needs rest, and it's hard to get sufficient rest, and still remain involved while normal life beckons. But during a period of ritual uncleanness, she is unable to wash, cook, clean or do other tasks, as her unclean state forbids her. So she is required  ...