Leviticus 13:27

On the seventh day the priest is to reexamine him, and if it has spread further on the skin, the priest must pronounce him unclean; it is a diseased infection.

Study Bible

On the seventh day
The phrase "On the seventh day" reflects the biblical significance of the number seven, often symbolizing completeness or divine perfection. In the context of Leviticus, the seventh day marks a period of waiting and observation, emphasizing the importance of patience and thoroughness in spiritual and communal matters. Theologically, it underscores the need for divine timing in the discernment of purity and impurity.

the priest is to examine him again
The role of the priest as an examiner highlights the priestly duty of maintaining holiness within the community. The Hebrew root for "examine" (ra'ah) implies a careful and discerning look, suggesting that spiritual leaders must possess wisdom and insight. This examination is not merely physical but also spiritual, as the priest acts as a mediator between God and the people, ensuring that the community remains pure and undefiled.

if the sore has spread on the skin
The spreading of the sore symbolizes the pervasive nature of sin and impurity. In ancient Israel, physical ailments often represented spiritual conditions. The Hebrew word for "spread" (pashat) conveys the idea of expansion or growth, warning of the dangers of unchecked sin. This serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in addressing sin before it corrupts the entire body or community.

the priest must pronounce him unclean
The declaration of uncleanness by the priest is a solemn and authoritative act. The Hebrew term for "pronounce" (tame) indicates a formal declaration that affects the individual's status within the community. This pronouncement is not punitive but protective, aiming to prevent the spread of impurity and to encourage repentance and restoration.

it is a diseased infection
The phrase "diseased infection" underscores the seriousness of the condition. The Hebrew word for "diseased" (nega) can also mean plague or affliction, suggesting a condition that requires immediate attention. This highlights the biblical principle that sin, like disease, must be addressed promptly and decisively to prevent further harm. The infection serves as a metaphor for the spiritual maladies that can afflict individuals and communities, calling for divine intervention and healing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
In ancient Israel, priests served as mediators between God and the people, and they were responsible for diagnosing and declaring skin diseases, which had both physical and spiritual implications.

2. The Infected Person
This refers to any individual in the Israelite community who showed signs of a skin disease. Their condition required examination by the priest to determine their status of cleanliness.

3. The Examination
A process conducted by the priest to determine whether a skin condition was spreading, which would render the person ceremonially unclean.

4. The Seventh Day
A specific time frame for re-examination, emphasizing the importance of thorough observation and the passage of time in determining the nature of the disease.

5. Unclean Declaration
A significant pronouncement that affected the individual's ability to participate in community and religious life, highlighting the seriousness of maintaining purity.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest's role in examining and declaring someone clean or unclean underscores the importance of spiritual leadership and discernment in addressing issues within the community.

The Significance of Time
The seven-day waiting period before re-examination teaches patience and the need for careful observation before making judgments about others.

The Impact of Uncleanness
Being declared unclean had profound social and spiritual implications, reminding us of the seriousness of sin and the need for purity in our lives.

Restoration and Hope
While the declaration of uncleanness was severe, the provision for cleansing in subsequent chapters offers hope for restoration, mirroring the redemptive work of Christ.

Community Responsibility
The community's role in supporting those who are unclean, while maintaining purity, reflects the balance of grace and truth in Christian fellowship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 13:27 reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?

2. What can we learn from the seven-day waiting period about the importance of patience and discernment in our own decision-making processes?

3. In what ways does the concept of being declared "unclean" in Leviticus relate to the New Testament understanding of sin and redemption?

4. How does Jesus' healing of lepers in the Gospels fulfill and transform the laws concerning cleanliness in Leviticus?

5. What practical steps can we take as a community to support those who are struggling, while also upholding the standards of purity and holiness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 14
This chapter provides the procedures for cleansing a person who has been healed of a skin disease, showing the path to restoration and reintegration into the community.

Mark 1:40-45
The healing of a leper by Jesus demonstrates His authority over disease and His willingness to restore those deemed unclean, fulfilling the law with compassion.

Isaiah 53:4-5
This passage speaks of the suffering servant who bears our infirmities, connecting the physical and spiritual healing provided through Christ.