Leviticus 13:17

The priest will reexamine him, and if the infection has turned white, the priest is to pronounce the infected person clean; then he is clean.

Study Bible

The priest will examine him
In ancient Israel, the role of the priest extended beyond spiritual duties to include responsibilities akin to those of a public health official. The Hebrew word for "priest" is "kohen," which signifies a person who serves as a mediator between God and the people. The examination process was meticulous, ensuring that the priest could accurately determine the state of the skin disease. This reflects the importance of community health and the priest's role in maintaining the purity and holiness of the congregation.

if the skin disease has turned white
The Hebrew term for "skin disease" is "tzaraath," often translated as "leprosy" in older versions, though it encompasses a range of skin conditions. The turning of the skin to white was a significant indicator in the diagnostic process. In the ancient Near Eastern context, white skin could symbolize purity and cleansing, contrasting with the darker, more infected appearance of diseased skin. This transformation was a hopeful sign, indicating a move towards healing and restoration.

the priest shall pronounce the infected person clean
The act of pronouncement by the priest was not merely a medical declaration but a spiritual and communal one. The Hebrew word for "clean" is "tahor," which implies a state of ritual purity. This pronouncement restored the individual to full participation in the religious and social life of Israel. It underscores the theme of redemption and the power of divine authority to restore and renew.

he is clean
The repetition of the declaration "he is clean" emphasizes the completeness and certainty of the individual's restoration. In the Hebrew text, this affirmation serves as a powerful reminder of God's mercy and the transformative power of His laws. It highlights the holistic nature of God's care for His people, addressing both physical and spiritual well-being. This assurance of cleanliness is a precursor to the New Testament's message of spiritual cleansing through Christ, who fulfills the law and offers ultimate purification.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
In ancient Israel, priests served as mediators between God and the people, performing religious rituals and making judgments on matters of ceremonial cleanliness.

2. The Infected Person
This refers to an individual who has been afflicted with a skin disease, which in the context of Leviticus, could be leprosy or another condition that required examination by a priest.

3. The Examination
A process conducted by the priest to determine the state of the skin disease and whether the person could be declared clean or unclean.

4. Ceremonial Cleanliness
A state required for participation in community and religious life in Israel, symbolizing spiritual purity and separation from sin.

5. The Camp of Israel
The community setting where the Israelites lived, which required maintaining purity to ensure God's presence among them.

Teaching Points

Role of the Priest
The priest acts as a mediator, reflecting Christ's role as our ultimate High Priest who intercedes for us and declares us clean from sin.

Symbolism of Cleanliness
Ceremonial cleanliness in the Old Testament symbolizes spiritual purity. As believers, we are called to pursue holiness and purity in our lives.

Community and Restoration
The declaration of cleanliness allowed individuals to rejoin the community, illustrating the importance of restoration and reconciliation in the body of Christ.

God's Provision for Healing
The process outlined in Leviticus shows God's care for both physical and spiritual well-being, reminding us of His provision for healing and wholeness.

Faith and Obedience
The requirement for the infected person to present themselves to the priest demonstrates faith and obedience, principles that are vital in our walk with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 13:17 foreshadow the work of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. In what ways does the concept of ceremonial cleanliness in Leviticus relate to the New Testament teachings on spiritual purity?

3. How can we apply the principles of restoration and reconciliation found in Leviticus 13:17 to our relationships within the church today?

4. What does the process of examination and declaration of cleanliness teach us about God's standards and His provision for our spiritual health?

5. How can the faith and obedience demonstrated by the infected person in seeking the priest's examination inspire our own faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 14
This chapter continues the discussion on the cleansing process for those healed from skin diseases, emphasizing the role of the priest and the rituals involved.

Matthew 8:1-4
Jesus heals a leper and instructs him to show himself to the priest, highlighting the continuity of the law and the fulfillment of its requirements in Christ.

Hebrews 4:14-16
Jesus as our High Priest, who provides ultimate cleansing from sin, surpassing the temporary ceremonial cleansings of the Old Testament.