Leviticus 13:6

The priest will examine him again on the seventh day, and if the sore has faded and has not spread on the skin, the priest shall pronounce him clean; it is a rash. The person must wash his clothes and be clean.

Study Bible

On the seventh day
The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection, reflecting God's creation week. In the context of Leviticus, the seventh day represents a complete period of observation, ensuring that the priest's judgment is thorough and divinely guided. This period allows for a full assessment of the condition, emphasizing the importance of patience and divine timing in the healing process.

the priest is to reexamine him
The role of the priest here is crucial, serving as both a spiritual and physical mediator. The Hebrew root for "reexamine" suggests a careful and deliberate inspection, highlighting the priest's responsibility to discern the true nature of the ailment. This reflects the broader biblical theme of spiritual leaders being entrusted with the care and guidance of their community.

if the sore has faded
The fading of the sore indicates a positive change, a sign of healing or remission. In Hebrew, the word for "faded" can also imply a reduction in intensity or severity. This physical healing can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual renewal, where sin or impurity diminishes through repentance and divine grace.

and has not spread on the skin
The containment of the sore is a critical factor in determining cleanliness. The Hebrew context suggests a boundary or limit, emphasizing the importance of self-control and the containment of sin in one's life. Just as the physical ailment must not spread, so too must spiritual impurities be contained and addressed promptly.

the priest shall pronounce him clean
The declaration of cleanliness by the priest is both a physical and spiritual restoration. The Hebrew word for "pronounce" carries the weight of authority and finality, signifying a return to community and worship. This act underscores the priest's role as a conduit of God's mercy and the transformative power of divine forgiveness.

it is a rash
Identifying the condition as a rash rather than a more serious disease like leprosy is significant. The Hebrew term used here can denote a minor irritation, suggesting that not all afflictions are severe or indicative of deeper spiritual issues. This distinction encourages discernment and understanding in addressing both physical and spiritual challenges.

The man must wash his clothes
Washing clothes symbolizes purification and renewal. In the Hebrew tradition, washing is often associated with preparation for worship or entering a holy space. This act signifies the removal of impurity and a readiness to rejoin the community, reflecting the broader biblical theme of cleansing and sanctification.

and be clean
The final state of being clean is both a physical and spiritual condition. The Hebrew concept of cleanliness encompasses purity, holiness, and readiness to engage with God and the community. This verse concludes with a powerful reminder of God's desire for His people to be whole, pure, and in right relationship with Him and each other.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
- The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai.

2. Priest
- The individual responsible for examining skin diseases and determining the cleanliness or uncleanliness of a person.

3. Israelites
- The people to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, forming the community governed by these laws.

4. Leprosy
- A term used in the Bible to describe various skin diseases, not necessarily the modern disease known as leprosy.

5. Tabernacle
- The central place of worship for the Israelites, where the priests served and where the laws were often applied.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest acted as a mediator between God and the people, reflecting the importance of spiritual leadership and discernment in the community.

Holiness and Community Health
The laws concerning skin diseases were not only about physical health but also about maintaining the holiness and purity of the community.

Spiritual Examination
Just as the priest examined physical conditions, believers are called to examine their spiritual condition regularly.

Jesus as the Ultimate Healer
In the New Testament, Jesus fulfills the law by providing ultimate healing and restoration, both physically and spiritually.

Community Responsibility
The community's role in supporting those who were unclean reflects the importance of compassion and support within the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 13:6 reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of examination and discernment from Leviticus 13:6 to our spiritual lives?

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

4. What can we learn from Jesus' interactions with lepers in the Gospels about His approach to those considered "unclean"?

5. How can the church today support individuals who are marginalized or considered "unclean" by society, in light of Leviticus 13:6?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 12
The account of Miriam's leprosy provides a account context for understanding the seriousness of skin diseases in Israelite society.

Matthew 8
Jesus' healing of a leper demonstrates His authority over disease and His fulfillment of the law.

2 Kings 5
The healing of Naaman the Syrian shows God's power and mercy extending beyond Israel.

Mark 1
Jesus' compassion in healing a leper highlights the New Testament's emphasis on grace and restoration.

Luke 17
The account of the ten lepers healed by Jesus underscores themes of gratitude and faith.