In biblical times, skin diseases were often viewed with significant concern, both for their physical implications and their ceremonial impact. The Hebrew term "tzaraath" is commonly translated as "leprosy" in many English versions of the Bible, though it likely referred to a range of skin conditions rather than the specific disease known today as Hansen's disease.

Old Testament Context

The primary biblical text addressing skin diseases is found in Leviticus 13-14. These chapters provide detailed instructions for diagnosing and managing skin diseases, reflecting the importance of maintaining ritual purity within the Israelite community. The priests were responsible for examining individuals with skin conditions to determine their status. Leviticus 13:2-3 states, "When a person has a swelling or a rash or a bright spot on his skin that could become an infectious skin disease, he must be brought to Aaron the priest or to one of his sons who is a priest. The priest is to examine the sore on his skin, and if the hair in the sore has turned white and the sore appears to be deeper than the skin of his body, it is an infectious skin disease. When the priest examines him, he must pronounce him unclean."

The text outlines various symptoms and conditions, including raw flesh, white hair, and spreading sores, which would render a person ceremonially unclean. Those diagnosed with a skin disease were required to live outside the camp, as seen in Leviticus 13:45-46 : "The person afflicted with an infectious skin disease is to tear his clothes, let his hair hang loose, cover his mouth, and cry out, ‘Unclean, unclean!’ As long as he has the infection, he remains unclean. He must live alone in a place outside the camp."

Ritual Cleansing and Restoration

Leviticus 14 provides the procedure for the ceremonial cleansing of a person healed from a skin disease. This process involved a series of offerings and rituals, including the use of two live clean birds, cedarwood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop. The priest would perform these rituals to pronounce the individual clean, allowing them to re-enter the community and participate in worship.

New Testament References

In the New Testament, Jesus' interactions with those suffering from skin diseases highlight His compassion and authority. In Matthew 8:2-3 , a leper approaches Jesus, saying, "Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean." Jesus responds, "I am willing. Be clean!" and immediately the man is healed. This account demonstrates Jesus' power to heal and His willingness to restore those marginalized by their conditions.

Additionally, in Luke 17:11-19, Jesus heals ten lepers, emphasizing faith and gratitude. Only one of the healed men, a Samaritan, returns to thank Jesus, prompting Him to say, "Rise and go; your faith has made you well" (Luke 17:19). This narrative underscores the importance of faith and the breaking down of social barriers through Christ's ministry.

Theological Implications

The biblical treatment of skin diseases serves as a metaphor for sin and the need for purification. Just as those with skin diseases were separated from the community, sin separates individuals from God. The cleansing rituals in Leviticus foreshadow the ultimate cleansing from sin through Jesus Christ. His healing of lepers signifies the restoration and reconciliation available through faith in Him.

Throughout Scripture, the handling of skin diseases reflects God's concern for both physical health and spiritual purity, illustrating the comprehensive nature of His covenant with His people.