The laws concerning skin diseases and mildew are primarily found in the Book of Leviticus, chapters 13 and 14. These laws were given to the Israelites as part of the Mosaic Law and served both religious and practical purposes. They were intended to maintain the holiness of the community and to prevent the spread of disease.

Skin Diseases:

Leviticus 13 provides detailed instructions for diagnosing and managing skin diseases, often translated as "leprosy" in older versions of the Bible, though the term likely encompasses a variety of skin conditions. The chapter begins with the role of the priest in examining individuals who present with skin abnormalities. The priest acts as a public health official, determining whether a person is ceremonially clean or unclean.

1. Examination by the Priest: When a person has a swelling, rash, or bright spot on the skin, they must be brought to the priest for examination (Leviticus 13:2-3). The priest looks for specific signs, such as the presence of white hair in the sore or the sore appearing deeper than the skin.

2. Isolation and Re-examination: If the condition is unclear, the person may be isolated for seven days, after which the priest re-examines them (Leviticus 13:4-5). This process may be repeated to determine if the condition has spread.

3. Declaration of Uncleanliness: If the disease is deemed infectious, the person is declared unclean and must live outside the camp to prevent contamination (Leviticus 13:45-46). They must wear torn clothes, let their hair be unkempt, cover the lower part of their face, and cry out, "Unclean, unclean!"

4. Healing and Cleansing: If a person recovers, they must undergo a cleansing ritual, which includes washing their clothes, shaving off all their hair, and offering sacrifices (Leviticus 14:8-9).

Mildew and Mold:

Leviticus 14:33-57 addresses the issue of mildew and mold in clothing and houses. These laws reflect an understanding of the potential health hazards posed by mold and mildew.

1. Inspection of Clothing: If mildew is found on clothing, it must be shown to the priest, who will examine it and isolate the item for seven days (Leviticus 13:47-50). If the mildew has spread, the clothing is to be burned.

2. Inspection of Houses: When mildew is suspected in a house, the owner must report it to the priest, who will inspect the house and order it to be closed for seven days (Leviticus 14:35-38). If the mildew has spread, the contaminated stones must be removed and replaced, and the house must be scraped and replastered.

3. Cleansing of Houses: If the mildew reappears, the house is considered unclean and must be demolished (Leviticus 14:43-45). If the mildew does not return, the house is declared clean after a purification ceremony involving two birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop (Leviticus 14:49-53).

These laws underscore the importance of purity and cleanliness in the Israelite community, reflecting a concern for both spiritual and physical well-being. They highlight the role of the priest not only as a religious leader but also as a guardian of public health.