In the context of biblical law and ritual purity, an "infected article" refers to objects that have become ceremonially unclean due to contact with certain impurities, such as mold, mildew, or bodily discharges. The concept is primarily derived from the Old Testament, where the laws concerning cleanliness and uncleanliness are extensively detailed, particularly in the book of Leviticus.

Biblical References:

1. Leviticus 13:47-59 · This passage provides specific instructions regarding garments that have been contaminated by mildew or mold. The text outlines the process by which a priest examines the article, determines its status, and prescribes the necessary actions. If the mildew is found to be persistent after washing, the garment is to be burned, as it is considered a spreading defilement. "If the mildew reappears in the garment, whether in the woven or knitted fabric or in any leather article, it is spreading. You must burn the article with the mildew" (Leviticus 13:57).

2. Leviticus 14:33-53 · This section extends the laws of infection to houses, detailing the procedure for dealing with mold or mildew within a dwelling. The priest is to inspect the house, and if the contamination is severe, the house may need to be dismantled. "He is to have the house scraped all around, and the contaminated plaster must be dumped into an unclean place outside the city" (Leviticus 14:41).

Theological Significance:

The laws concerning infected articles underscore the importance of holiness and purity in the life of the Israelites. These regulations served as a constant reminder of the need to separate the clean from the unclean, symbolizing the broader spiritual truth of separating sin from righteousness. The meticulous attention to detail in these laws reflects God's concern for both physical and spiritual health.

Practical Implications:

For the Israelites, adherence to these laws was a matter of obedience to God's covenant. The process of purification and the role of the priest in declaring an article clean or unclean highlight the community's dependence on divine guidance for maintaining holiness. The destruction of infected articles, when necessary, illustrates the seriousness with which impurity was to be treated, preventing its spread within the community.

Symbolic Interpretations:

Infected articles can also be seen as a metaphor for sin and its corrupting influence. Just as mold or mildew can spread and defile, sin can permeate and corrupt the heart and community. The cleansing rituals point to the need for spiritual purification and the ultimate cleansing that comes through faith and repentance.

New Testament Connections:

While the New Testament does not specifically address infected articles, the principles of purity and holiness continue to be emphasized. Jesus' teachings often focus on the internal condition of the heart rather than external rituals. However, the underlying message of separating from sin and seeking purity remains consistent. "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God" (Matthew 5:8).

In summary, the concept of infected articles in the Bible serves as a tangible representation of the broader spiritual truths concerning purity, holiness, and the need for divine intervention in the cleansing process.