Leviticus 13:28

But if the spot is unchanged and has not spread on the skin but has faded, it is a swelling from the burn, and the priest is to pronounce him clean; for it is only the scar from the burn.

Study Bible

But if the spot is unchanged
The Hebrew word for "spot" here is "נֶגַע" (nega), which refers to a mark or plague. In the context of Leviticus, it often pertains to skin conditions that could render someone ceremonially unclean. The phrase "is unchanged" suggests a stability or lack of progression in the condition. This stability is crucial in the priestly examination, as it indicates that the condition is not infectious or worsening. Spiritually, this can be seen as a metaphor for the constancy of faith and the importance of remaining steadfast in one's spiritual journey, even when faced with trials.

and has not spread
The Hebrew root for "spread" is "פָּשָׂה" (pasah), meaning to extend or grow. In the context of Levitical law, the spreading of a skin condition was a sign of impurity and potential danger to the community. The absence of spreading signifies containment and control, which is essential for maintaining purity. This can be likened to the containment of sin in one's life, emphasizing the need for vigilance and self-control to prevent spiritual decay.

it is only a scar from the boil
The term "scar" in Hebrew is "צָרֶבֶת" (tzarevet), which refers to a mark left on the skin after healing. The "boil" or "שְׁחִין" (shechin) is a swelling or inflammation. The identification of the spot as merely a scar indicates healing and the absence of active disease. This reflects the transformative power of healing and redemption, where past afflictions leave marks that testify to God's restorative work. It serves as a reminder of the trials overcome and the grace received.

and the priest shall pronounce him clean
The role of the priest, or "כֹּהֵן" (kohen), was not only to perform religious rituals but also to act as a mediator between God and the people, ensuring the community's purity. The declaration of "clean" or "טָהוֹר" (tahor) signifies a return to communal and spiritual wholeness. This pronouncement is a powerful testament to the mercy and grace available through divine authority. It underscores the importance of spiritual leaders in guiding and affirming the faithful, and the joy of being restored to fellowship with God and community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The priest acts as a mediator and judge in matters of ceremonial cleanliness, reflecting the role of spiritual leadership in ancient Israel.

2. Person with a Burn
Represents individuals who have suffered physical injury and are undergoing examination for ceremonial cleanliness.

3. Israelite Community
The broader context involves maintaining the purity and holiness of the community as commanded by God.

4. Tabernacle
The place where the presence of God dwells, necessitating the purity of those who approach it.

5. Ceremonial Law
The laws given to Israel to maintain holiness and cleanliness, reflecting God's standards.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Community
The importance of maintaining purity within the community reflects God's call for His people to be set apart.

Role of Spiritual Leaders
The priest's role in examining and pronouncing cleanliness highlights the responsibility of spiritual leaders to guide and care for their communities.

Physical and Spiritual Healing
The examination of physical ailments can be seen as a metaphor for addressing spiritual issues, emphasizing the need for both physical and spiritual healing.

God's Standards
The detailed laws remind us of God's high standards for holiness and the need for His people to strive for purity in all aspects of life.

Compassion and Restoration
The process of examination and pronouncement of cleanliness shows God's desire for restoration and inclusion of individuals back into the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 13:28 reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?

2. In what ways can the principles of ceremonial cleanliness in Leviticus be applied to our spiritual lives as Christians?

3. How does Jesus' healing of the leper in Matthew 8 demonstrate a fulfillment or transformation of the laws in Leviticus 13?

4. What are some practical ways we can strive for holiness in our daily lives, as encouraged in 1 Peter 1:15-16?

5. How can the church today act as a community that supports both physical and spiritual healing, as seen in James 5:14-15?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 14
Discusses the cleansing process for various skin diseases, showing the continuation of the theme of purity.

Matthew 8:1-4
Jesus heals a leper, demonstrating His authority over ceremonial laws and His power to cleanse.

1 Peter 1:15-16
Calls believers to be holy as God is holy, echoing the call to purity found in Leviticus.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Compares the old covenant's purification rituals with the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice.

James 5:14-15
Encourages the church to pray for the sick, showing the continued role of spiritual leaders in matters of health and purity.