Leviticus 14:3

The priest is to go outside the camp to examine him, and if the skin disease of the afflicted person has healed,

Study Bible

The priest
In the context of ancient Israel, the priest held a significant role 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 priest's involvement in the examination process underscores the spiritual dimension of physical ailments, reflecting the belief that health and holiness are interconnected. This role also highlights the priest's responsibility in maintaining the purity of the community.

is to go outside the camp
The phrase "outside the camp" is crucial in understanding the social and religious dynamics of ancient Israel. The camp represented the dwelling place of God's people, a holy community. Those with infectious skin diseases were required to live outside this area to prevent ritual impurity. The priest's act of going outside signifies God's willingness to reach out to the marginalized and restore them to the community, prefiguring the ministry of Jesus, who often reached out to the outcasts.

and examine him
The examination by the priest was not merely a medical assessment but a spiritual and communal one. The Hebrew root "ra'ah" means to see or inspect, indicating a thorough and discerning evaluation. This process ensured that the individual was truly healed and could be reintegrated into the community. It reflects the importance of discernment and careful judgment in spiritual leadership.

If the man has been healed
The conditional "if" introduces the possibility of divine intervention and healing. The Hebrew word for healed, "rapha," is often associated with God's restorative power. This phrase emphasizes the belief in God's ability to heal and restore, both physically and spiritually. It also points to the hope and faith that the afflicted person and the community must have in God's mercy.

of his infectious skin disease
The term "infectious skin disease" translates the Hebrew "tzaraath," which is often rendered as leprosy but encompasses a range of skin conditions. In the biblical context, such diseases were seen as not only physical ailments but also as conditions that rendered a person ritually unclean. The healing of such a disease was a sign of God's cleansing power, symbolizing the removal of sin and impurity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
In ancient Israel, the priest served as a mediator between God and the people, responsible for performing rituals and sacrifices. In this context, the priest examines individuals for ceremonial cleanliness.

2. Outside the Camp
This refers to the area outside the community of Israel. Those with skin diseases were isolated here to prevent the spread of impurity and disease.

3. The Afflicted Person
This is someone who has been suffering from a skin disease, often translated as "leprosy" in older versions, though it could refer to various skin conditions.

4. Healing
The process of recovery from the skin disease, which is necessary for the person to be reintegrated into the community.

Teaching Points

Role of the Priest
The priest acts as a mediator, reflecting Christ's role as our High Priest who intercedes for us.

Importance of Community
The isolation of the afflicted underscores the value of community and the need for purity within it. Spiritual and physical health are both vital for communal living.

Healing and Restoration
The process of examination and healing symbolizes spiritual cleansing and restoration, pointing to the ultimate healing found in Christ.

Obedience to God's Law
The detailed instructions for dealing with skin diseases reflect the importance of obedience to God's commands for the well-being of the community.

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

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 14:3 foreshadow the work of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. What can we learn from the requirement for the priest to go outside the camp to examine the afflicted person about God's concern for both physical and spiritual purity?

3. In what ways does the healing and reintegration of the afflicted person into the community reflect the gospel message of redemption and restoration?

4. How can we apply the principles of examination and healing in Leviticus 14:3 to our spiritual lives today?

5. How does the concept of being "outside the camp" relate to the New Testament teachings on Jesus' sacrifice and our call to live a life set apart for God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 13
Provides the detailed laws and procedures for diagnosing skin diseases, emphasizing the role of the priest in maintaining community purity.

Luke 17:11-19
Jesus heals ten lepers, highlighting the continuation of the theme of healing and restoration to community life.

Hebrews 13:11-13
Discusses Jesus suffering outside the camp, drawing a parallel to the isolation of those with skin diseases and the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.