Leviticus 13:57

But if it reappears in the fabric, weave, or knit, or on any leather article, it is spreading. You must burn the contaminated article.

Study Bible

But if it reappears
The phrase "But if it reappears" suggests a condition of recurrence, indicating vigilance and ongoing observation. In the Hebrew text, the word for "reappears" is "וְאִם־תָּשׁוּב" (ve'im-tashuv), which implies a return or resurgence. This reflects the persistent nature of sin and impurity, which can reemerge if not thoroughly eradicated. Spiritually, it serves as a reminder of the need for constant spiritual vigilance and the importance of addressing sin at its root.

in the fabric, woven or knitted material
The terms "fabric, woven or knitted material" refer to the various types of cloth that were common in ancient Israel. The Hebrew words used here, "בַּבֶּגֶד" (babeged) for fabric, "אֹרֶג" (oreg) for woven, and "שָׁתִי" (shati) for knitted, encompass all forms of textile production. This highlights the comprehensive nature of the law, covering all possible materials that could be affected. Historically, textiles were valuable commodities, and their contamination would have significant economic and social implications, symbolizing how sin can permeate and affect all areas of life.

or any leather article
The inclusion of "any leather article" extends the scope of the law to include items made from animal hides. The Hebrew word "עוֹר" (or) for leather indicates the versatility and common use of leather in ancient times. Leather was used for clothing, tents, and various tools, making it an essential part of daily life. This inclusion underscores the thoroughness required in dealing with impurity, as sin can infiltrate even the most durable and seemingly impervious aspects of life.

it is spreading
The phrase "it is spreading" uses the Hebrew word "פֹּרַחַת" (porachat), which conveys the idea of blossoming or breaking out. This imagery suggests that impurity, like sin, has a tendency to grow and expand if left unchecked. The spreading nature of the contamination serves as a metaphor for how sin can proliferate within a community or individual, emphasizing the need for decisive action to prevent further corruption.

You must burn the contaminated article with fire
The command "You must burn the contaminated article with fire" is a directive for complete destruction. The Hebrew word "שָׂרֹף" (sarof) for burn indicates a purifying process through fire, a common biblical symbol for judgment and purification. Fire, in this context, represents the consuming and cleansing power of God’s holiness. This act of burning signifies the total eradication of impurity, illustrating the necessity of removing sin entirely from one's life to maintain holiness and purity before God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
In Leviticus 13, the priest plays a crucial role as the one who examines skin diseases and determines the cleanliness or uncleanliness of individuals or items. This reflects the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people.

2. Infected Object
The verse specifically addresses objects that have been contaminated by mildew or mold, which were considered unclean and required examination and potential destruction.

3. Israelite Camp
The broader context of Leviticus 13 is the Israelite camp, where maintaining ritual purity was essential for the community's relationship with God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Purity
The laws in Leviticus 13, including verse 57, highlight the importance of purity in the life of God's people. This purity is not just physical but also spiritual, pointing to the need for holiness in our lives.

Role of the Priest
The priest's role in examining and declaring cleanliness underscores the importance of spiritual leadership and guidance in the community of faith.

Dealing with Sin and Impurity
Just as the Israelites were instructed to deal with physical impurities, we are called to address sin and spiritual impurities in our lives, seeking God's cleansing and forgiveness.

God's Concern for Community Health
These laws reflect God's concern for the health and well-being of the community, reminding us of our responsibility to care for one another and maintain a healthy environment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 13:57 reflect the role of spiritual leaders in the church today?

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

3. How does the concept of dealing with physical impurities in Leviticus relate to dealing with sin in our lives, as seen in 1 John 1:9?

4. What can we learn from the laws of Leviticus about God's concern for community health and how can this be applied in our church communities?

5. How does Jesus' healing of the leper in Matthew 8 demonstrate the fulfillment of the law's requirements for purity and what does this mean for us today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 14
This chapter continues the discussion of cleansing from skin diseases and mildew, providing a broader context for understanding the laws of purity and the role of the priest.

Numbers 19
This passage discusses purification laws, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and the procedures for purification, which parallels the instructions in Leviticus 13.

Matthew 8
Jesus heals a man with leprosy, demonstrating His authority over disease and impurity, which connects to the laws of leprosy in Leviticus.