Leviticus 13:14

But whenever raw flesh appears on someone, he will be unclean.

Study Bible

But whenever
This phrase introduces a conditional situation, indicating that the following instructions are not constant but occur under specific circumstances. The Hebrew word for "whenever" (כִּי) is often used to denote a condition or a time when something happens. This sets the stage for understanding the dynamic nature of the laws concerning cleanliness and uncleanliness, emphasizing vigilance and awareness in the community.

raw flesh
The Hebrew term for "raw flesh" (בָּשָׂר חַי) literally translates to "living flesh." This suggests a state of the skin that is not healed or covered, indicating an active and visible condition. In the context of Levitical law, this raw flesh is a sign of impurity, possibly due to its association with disease or infection. The presence of raw flesh would have been a visible marker of uncleanliness, serving as a practical guide for the Israelites to prevent the spread of disease.

appears on him
The appearance of raw flesh is a critical factor in determining the state of uncleanliness. The Hebrew verb used here (יֵרָאֶה) means "to be seen" or "to appear," highlighting the importance of visible evidence in the Levitical purity laws. This visibility requirement underscores the communal aspect of these laws, as the condition must be observable to others, particularly the priests, who were responsible for diagnosing and managing cases of impurity.

he will be unclean
The declaration of uncleanliness (טָמֵא) is significant in the Levitical context, as it affects the individual's ability to participate in communal and religious activities. Being unclean was not merely a physical state but had spiritual and social implications. The unclean person was often isolated to prevent contamination of the community and to maintain the holiness required by God. This reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness and the separation from sin and impurity, emphasizing the need for purity in approaching God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai. He was responsible for conveying these laws to the Israelites.

2. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel, who, along with his sons, was responsible for implementing the laws concerning cleanliness and uncleanliness.

3. Israelites
The people to whom the laws of Leviticus were given, as they journeyed through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt.

4. Priests
The descendants of Aaron who were tasked with examining skin diseases and determining cleanliness or uncleanliness.

5. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites received the laws, a place of testing and preparation before entering the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Understanding Uncleanliness
The concept of uncleanliness in Leviticus is not just about physical health but also about spiritual and communal purity. It serves as a reminder of the holiness required to approach God.

The Role of the Priest
The priest acted as a mediator between God and the people, highlighting the importance of spiritual leadership and discernment in matters of purity and holiness.

Spiritual Implications
Just as raw flesh indicated uncleanliness, sin in our lives can make us spiritually unclean. We must seek God's cleansing through repentance and faith in Christ.

Christ as the Fulfillment
Jesus, our High Priest, provides the ultimate cleansing from sin. His healing of lepers in the New Testament symbolizes His power to purify and restore us.

Community Responsibility
The laws concerning skin diseases remind us of our responsibility to maintain purity within the community of believers, encouraging accountability and support.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of uncleanliness in Leviticus 13:14 relate to our understanding of sin and holiness today?

2. In what ways can we see the role of the priest in Leviticus as a foreshadowing of Christ's work as our High Priest?

3. How can we apply the principles of purity and community responsibility from Leviticus 13 to our church communities today?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to seek spiritual cleansing and restoration in our personal lives?

5. How does the healing of lepers by Jesus in the New Testament deepen our understanding of His mission and message?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 14
This chapter provides the procedures for cleansing a person with a skin disease, showing the continuation of the theme of purity and restoration.

Numbers 12
The account of Miriam's leprosy highlights the seriousness of skin diseases and the need for divine intervention and priestly mediation.

Matthew 8
Jesus' healing of a leper demonstrates His authority over disease and His fulfillment of the law, offering cleansing and restoration.

Isaiah 1
The prophet uses the imagery of leprosy to describe the spiritual condition of Israel, emphasizing the need for repentance and cleansing.