Leviticus 13:5

On the seventh day the priest is to reexamine him, and if he sees that the infection is unchanged and has not spread on the skin, the priest must isolate him for another seven days.

Study Bible

On the seventh day
The phrase "On the seventh day" reflects the biblical significance of the number seven, which often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection. In the Hebrew context, the seventh day is a day of rest and reflection, as seen in the Sabbath. Here, it indicates a complete cycle of observation, allowing time for the infection to manifest fully if it is indeed spreading. This period of waiting underscores the importance of patience and thoroughness in spiritual discernment and decision-making.

the priest is to reexamine him
The role of the priest in this context is not only religious but also medical. The Hebrew word for priest, "kohen," signifies someone who serves as an intermediary between God and the people. The priest's duty to reexamine the individual highlights the importance of spiritual leaders being involved in the holistic well-being of their community. It also reflects the priest's responsibility to ensure that the community remains pure and undefiled, both physically and spiritually.

and if he sees that the infection has not spread on the skin
This phrase emphasizes the careful observation required to determine the presence of disease. The Hebrew word for "infection" can also be translated as "plague" or "affliction," indicating a serious condition that requires attention. The focus on whether the infection has spread underscores the need for vigilance in identifying sin or impurity before it affects the broader community. It serves as a metaphor for the spread of sin, which must be contained and addressed promptly.

the priest shall isolate him for another seven days
Isolation here serves as a protective measure for both the individual and the community. The Hebrew concept of isolation, or "badad," implies being set apart, which can be seen as a time for reflection and repentance. This second period of seven days allows for further observation and ensures that any potential threat is fully assessed. Spiritually, it suggests the need for ongoing self-examination and the importance of taking time to address personal and communal issues thoroughly.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
In Leviticus 13:5, the priest plays a crucial role as the one who examines individuals for skin diseases. The priest acts as a mediator between God and the people, ensuring the community's purity.

2. Infected Person
The individual suspected of having a skin disease is central to this passage. Their condition requires careful examination and potential isolation to prevent the spread of impurity.

3. Israelite Camp
The broader setting is the Israelite camp, where maintaining ritual purity is essential for communal worship and living.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest's role in examining and diagnosing skin diseases underscores the importance of spiritual leadership in maintaining community purity and health.

Importance of Community Health
The passage highlights the need for vigilance in protecting the community from physical and spiritual impurity, a principle that can be applied to modern church life.

Spiritual Examination
Just as the priest examines physical conditions, believers are called to examine their spiritual lives regularly, seeking God's guidance and correction.

Isolation and Restoration
The temporary isolation of the infected person serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the hope of restoration through repentance and God's grace.

Holiness and Purity
The emphasis on purity in Leviticus reflects God's call for His people to be holy, setting a standard for personal and communal conduct.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 13:5 inform our understanding of spiritual leadership today?

2. In what ways can the principles of community health and purity in Leviticus 13 be applied to the modern church?

3. How does the process of examination and potential isolation in Leviticus 13:5 relate to the concept of church discipline found in the New Testament?

4. What can we learn from the connection between physical and spiritual impurity in Leviticus 13 about the nature of sin and its impact on our lives?

5. How does Jesus' healing of lepers in the New Testament fulfill and transform the laws concerning skin diseases found in Leviticus 13?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 14
This chapter continues the discussion on skin diseases, detailing the purification process for those who have been healed. It highlights the importance of restoration and reintegration into the community.

Numbers 12
The account of Miriam's leprosy provides a account example of how skin diseases were perceived and dealt with, emphasizing the seriousness of such conditions.

Matthew 8
Jesus' healing of a leper demonstrates His authority over disease and impurity, fulfilling the law and showing compassion.