Leviticus 13:56

If the priest examines it and the mildew has faded after it has been washed, he must cut the contaminated section out of the fabric, leather, weave, or knit.

Study Bible

If, when the priest examines it
The role of the priest in ancient Israel was not only spiritual but also practical, serving as a mediator between God and the people. The Hebrew word for "priest" is "kohen," which signifies someone who is set apart for sacred duties. The examination process reflects the priest's responsibility to maintain the community's purity, both spiritually and physically. This highlights the importance of discernment and careful observation in leadership roles, ensuring that decisions are made with wisdom and integrity.

the mildew has faded
The term "mildew" in Hebrew is "נֶגַע" (nega), which can refer to a variety of skin diseases or mold. The fading of mildew signifies a reduction in the severity of the impurity. In a spiritual sense, this can be seen as a metaphor for sin or moral corruption that, when addressed and cleansed, begins to diminish. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of repentance and divine intervention in the process of sanctification.

after it has been washed
Washing is a recurring theme in Levitical law, symbolizing purification and renewal. The Hebrew word "כָּבַס" (kabas) means to wash or cleanse. This act of washing represents the necessary steps of repentance and cleansing that precede restoration. It underscores the belief that while human effort is required in the process of purification, it is ultimately God who purifies and restores.

he is to tear the contaminated part out
The act of tearing out the contaminated part is a decisive action to remove impurity. The Hebrew verb "קָרַע" (qara) means to tear or rend. This action signifies the importance of removing sin or corruption from one's life to prevent further contamination. It is a call to vigilance and the willingness to take drastic measures to maintain holiness and integrity.

of the fabric, the leather, or the woven or knitted material
These materials represent the everyday items used by the Israelites, indicating that the laws of purity extended to all aspects of life. The specificity of these materials highlights the comprehensive nature of God's law, which touches every part of human existence. It serves as a reminder that holiness is not confined to religious rituals but is a way of life that permeates all areas of daily living.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The priest acts as the mediator and examiner, responsible for determining the cleanliness or uncleanliness of the fabric or material. In the context of Leviticus, priests were tasked with maintaining the holiness of the community by following God's laws.

2. Mildew
A symbol of impurity or corruption that can affect materials. In the broader biblical context, mildew represents sin or spiritual decay that can infiltrate and corrupt.

3. Fabric, Leather, Woven or Knitted Material
These materials represent the everyday items of the Israelites, emphasizing that God's laws cover all aspects of life, including the mundane.

4. Examination
The process by which the priest inspects the material to determine the presence and severity of mildew. This reflects the thoroughness required in spiritual discernment.

5. Washing and Tearing Out
The actions prescribed for dealing with mildew, symbolizing the need for purification and removal of sin to maintain holiness.

Teaching Points

Holiness in Everyday Life
God's concern for purity extends to all areas of life, including the mundane. Believers are called to maintain holiness in every aspect of their lives.

The Role of Spiritual Leaders
Just as priests were responsible for examining and guiding the community, spiritual leaders today are tasked with helping believers discern and address sin.

The Process of Purification
The washing and tearing out of mildew symbolize the need for both cleansing and decisive action against sin. Believers must actively seek purification and remove sin from their lives.

Symbolism of Mildew
Mildew represents the pervasive nature of sin. Just as mildew can spread and corrupt, sin can infiltrate and damage our spiritual lives if not addressed.

Community Responsibility
The community's purity was a collective responsibility. Similarly, the church today must work together to uphold spiritual integrity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 13:56 inform our understanding of spiritual leadership today?

2. In what ways can the process of dealing with mildew in Leviticus 13:56 be applied to addressing sin in our personal lives?

3. How does the concept of purity in Leviticus relate to the New Testament teachings on holiness and sanctification?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that we are maintaining holiness in our everyday lives, as suggested by the principles in Leviticus 13:56?

5. How can the church community support one another in the process of spiritual purification, drawing from the communal aspects of Leviticus 13?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 14
This chapter continues the theme of purification, detailing the cleansing process for skin diseases and mildew, emphasizing the importance of ritual purity.

1 Corinthians 5
Paul discusses the need to remove sin from the community, similar to removing mildew, to maintain the purity of the church.

Psalm 51
David's plea for cleansing from sin parallels the need for purification from physical impurities like mildew.

Hebrews 10
The role of the priest in Leviticus foreshadows Christ's ultimate priesthood, where He cleanses believers from sin.