Leviticus 13:20

The priest shall examine it, and if it appears to be beneath the skin and the hair in it has turned white, the priest shall pronounce him unclean; it is a diseased infection that has broken out in the boil.

Study Bible

The priest is to examine it
In ancient Israel, the role of the priest extended beyond spiritual duties to include health assessments, particularly concerning skin diseases. The Hebrew word for "priest" is "kohen," which signifies a mediator between God and the people. The examination process underscores the priest's responsibility to maintain the community's purity and health, reflecting God's holiness. This examination was not merely a medical procedure but a spiritual act, ensuring that the community remained in right standing with God.

if it appears to be more than skin deep
The phrase "more than skin deep" indicates a condition that penetrates beyond the surface, suggesting a serious issue. In Hebrew, the concept of depth here implies a thorough investigation, as the priest must discern the true nature of the affliction. This reflects the biblical principle that sin, like disease, often lies beneath the surface and requires careful examination and discernment to address.

and the hair in it has turned white
White hair in the affected area was a key diagnostic sign. In the ancient Near East, white hair symbolized decay or death, contrasting with the vitality of life. This transformation of hair color served as a visible indicator of impurity, much like sin's visible effects on a person's life. The change in hair color was a divine sign, guiding the priest in making a judgment about the person's condition.

the priest must pronounce him unclean
The declaration of uncleanness was a serious matter, as it affected the individual's ability to participate in community and worship. The Hebrew word for "unclean" is "tamei," which denotes a state of ritual impurity. This pronouncement was not punitive but protective, safeguarding the community from potential contagion and maintaining the sanctity of the camp. It also served as a reminder of the separation sin causes between humanity and God.

It is a skin disease that has broken out
The term "skin disease" in Hebrew is "tzaraath," often translated as leprosy, though it encompassed a range of skin conditions. The phrase "has broken out" suggests an eruption or spreading, indicating the aggressive nature of the disease. This imagery parallels the spread of sin, which, if left unchecked, can permeate and corrupt. The physical manifestation of the disease served as a tangible representation of spiritual impurity, calling the community to vigilance and repentance.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. He and his descendants were responsible for performing the priestly duties, including examining skin diseases.

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

4. Israelites
The people to whom the laws in Leviticus were given. They were to follow these laws to maintain purity and holiness before God.

5. Leprosy
A term used in the Bible to describe various skin diseases, not necessarily the modern disease known as leprosy (Hansen's disease).

Teaching Points

Holiness and Purity
The laws concerning skin diseases remind us of God's call for His people to be holy and pure. We are to examine our lives for spiritual "blemishes" and seek God's cleansing.

Role of the Priesthood
The priests served as mediators between God and the people, pointing to the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who intercedes for us.

Community Responsibility
The examination and isolation procedures underscore the importance of community health and responsibility. We are called to care for one another and maintain the spiritual health of our communities.

Symbolism of Sin
Leprosy in the Bible often symbolizes sin, which can spread and defile. We must be vigilant in addressing sin in our lives and seek God's forgiveness and healing.

Faith and Obedience
The process of examination and cleansing required faith and obedience to God's instructions. Similarly, we are called to trust and obey God's Word in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in examining skin diseases in Leviticus 13:20 reflect the role of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of holiness and purity from Leviticus 13 to our modern lives?

3. How does the concept of community responsibility in dealing with skin diseases relate to the New Testament teachings on church discipline and accountability?

4. What are some "spiritual blemishes" we might need to examine in our own lives, and how can we seek God's cleansing?

5. How does the healing of lepers in the New Testament demonstrate the fulfillment of the law and the power of Jesus' ministry?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 14
This chapter provides the procedures for the cleansing of a person healed from a skin disease, showing the continuation of the process described in Leviticus 13.

Numbers 12
The account of Miriam's leprosy and her subsequent healing after Moses intercedes for her, illustrating the seriousness of skin diseases and the need for divine intervention.

Matthew 8
Jesus heals a man with leprosy, demonstrating His authority over disease and His compassion for the unclean.

2 Kings 5
The healing of Naaman the Syrian from leprosy, showing God's power and the importance of obedience to His instructions.

Mark 1
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.