Leviticus 13:51

On the seventh day the priest shall reexamine it, and if the mildew has spread in the fabric, weave, knit, or leather, then regardless of how it is used, it is a harmful mildew; the article is unclean.

Study Bible

On the seventh day
The phrase "On the seventh day" reflects the biblical principle of completion and rest, as seen in the creation narrative in Genesis. The seventh day is significant in Hebrew culture, often associated with the Sabbath, a day of rest and reflection. Here, it signifies a complete period of observation, allowing time for the true nature of the contamination to manifest. This period underscores the importance of patience and thoroughness in spiritual discernment.

he is to reexamine
The act of reexamination implies a careful and deliberate process of inspection. In Hebrew, the root word for "examine" (בָּחַן, bachan) suggests testing or proving. This reflects the need for diligence and discernment in spiritual matters, encouraging believers to continually assess their lives and surroundings for spiritual purity and integrity.

the contamination
The term "contamination" refers to a physical impurity that symbolizes spiritual defilement. In the Hebrew context, this could be related to tzaraath, often translated as leprosy, but encompassing a broader range of skin and surface conditions. Spiritually, it serves as a metaphor for sin, which can spread and corrupt if not addressed.

If the contamination has spread
The potential for the contamination to spread highlights the insidious nature of sin. Just as physical impurities can grow and affect more of the material, sin can infiltrate and corrupt various aspects of life. This serves as a warning to address sin promptly and thoroughly to prevent further spiritual decay.

in the fabric, the weave or knit, or in the leather
These materials—fabric, weave, knit, and leather—represent the everyday elements of life in ancient Israel. Each material has its own significance and use, symbolizing the different areas of life that can be affected by impurity. The specificity of these items underscores the comprehensive nature of God's concern for holiness in all aspects of life.

regardless of its use
This phrase emphasizes that no matter the purpose or function of the item, it is subject to the same scrutiny. Spiritually, it suggests that all areas of life, whether sacred or secular, are under God's purview and must be kept pure. It calls believers to maintain holiness in every aspect of their lives.

the contamination is a destructive mildew
The description of the contamination as "a destructive mildew" conveys the idea of something that is not only unclean but also harmful and potentially ruinous. In Hebrew, the word for mildew (נֶגַע, nega) can also mean plague or affliction, indicating the severity of the impurity. This serves as a metaphor for sin's destructive power if left unchecked.

it is unclean
Declaring the contamination "unclean" signifies its incompatibility with the holiness required by God. In the Hebrew tradition, uncleanness required separation and purification. This reflects the need for believers to separate themselves from sin and seek God's cleansing to restore purity and fellowship with Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
In Leviticus 13, the priest plays a crucial role as the one who examines and diagnoses skin diseases and other forms of uncleanness. The priest acts as a mediator between God and the people, ensuring that the community remains holy and pure.

2. Infected Article
The passage refers to garments or articles that may be infected with a form of mildew or mold, which is considered unclean. This reflects the broader concern in Leviticus with maintaining purity and preventing the spread of contamination.

3. Leprosy
Although often translated as "leprosy," the Hebrew term "tzaraath" encompasses a range of skin diseases and conditions affecting garments and houses. It symbolizes sin and impurity that must be addressed to maintain holiness.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Purity
Leviticus 13:51 underscores the importance of holiness and purity in the life of God's people. Just as the Israelites were called to separate themselves from physical impurities, Christians are called to separate themselves from sin.

Role of Spiritual Leaders
The priest's role in examining and diagnosing impurity highlights the responsibility of spiritual leaders to guide and protect the community from spiritual and moral contamination.

Symbolism of Sin
The spread of mildew or mold in garments symbolizes how sin can spread and corrupt if not addressed. Believers must be vigilant in identifying and dealing with sin in their lives.

God's Provision for Cleansing
The detailed instructions for dealing with impurity reflect God's provision for cleansing and restoration. Through Christ, believers have access to spiritual cleansing and renewal.

Community Responsibility
The communal aspect of dealing with impurity in Leviticus reminds us of our responsibility to support one another in maintaining spiritual purity and accountability.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 13:51 inform our understanding of spiritual leadership in the church today?

2. In what ways can the concept of "tzaraath" as a symbol of sin help us understand the nature of sin and its impact on our lives?

3. How does the process of examining and cleansing in Leviticus 13 relate to the New Testament teachings on confession and repentance?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that we are maintaining spiritual purity in our personal lives and within our communities?

5. How does the provision for cleansing in Leviticus point to the ultimate cleansing and redemption offered through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 19
This chapter discusses the purification process for those who have become unclean, emphasizing the importance of ritual purity in maintaining a relationship with God.

Matthew 8
Jesus heals a man with leprosy, demonstrating His authority over physical and spiritual impurity and fulfilling the law's requirements for cleansing.

1 Peter 1:16
This verse calls believers to be holy as God is holy, echoing the Levitical emphasis on holiness and separation from impurity.