Leviticus 13:27

On the seventh day the priest is to reexamine him, and if it has spread further on the skin, the priest must pronounce him unclean; it is a diseased infection.

Study Bible

On the seventh day
The seventh day holds significant biblical symbolism, often representing completion or perfection, as seen in the creation account in Genesis. In the context of Leviticus, the seventh day is a time for reexamination, emphasizing thoroughness and patience in the priestly duties. This period allows for the observation of changes in the condition, reflecting God's desire for careful discernment.

the priest is to reexamine him
The role of the priest as a mediator and judge in matters of cleanliness underscores the importance of spiritual leadership in Israel. Priests were responsible for maintaining the community's purity, both physically and spiritually. This reexamination process highlights the priest's duty to ensure the health and holiness of the people, reflecting the broader theme of holiness in Leviticus.

and if it has spread further on the skin
The spread of the infection signifies a worsening condition, which in the ancient Near Eastern context, could lead to social and religious isolation. Skin diseases were often seen as a physical manifestation of spiritual impurity. This phrase underscores the need for vigilance in identifying and addressing sin or impurity before it affects the community.

the priest must pronounce him unclean
The declaration of uncleanness by the priest had significant implications, leading to the individual's separation from the community. This reflects the broader biblical theme of separation from sin and the need for purification. The priest's authority to pronounce someone unclean parallels the role of Christ as the ultimate judge and purifier of sin.

it is a diseased infection
The term "diseased infection" indicates a serious condition that requires attention. In the biblical context, physical ailments often symbolized spiritual issues. This phrase serves as a reminder of the pervasive nature of sin and the need for divine intervention. It also foreshadows the healing ministry of Jesus, who cleansed both physical and spiritual impurities.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
In ancient Israel, priests served as mediators between God and the people, and they were responsible for diagnosing and declaring skin diseases, which had both physical and spiritual implications.

2. The Infected Person
This refers to any individual in the Israelite community who showed signs of a skin disease. Their condition required examination by the priest to determine their status of cleanliness.

3. The Examination
A process conducted by the priest to determine whether a skin condition was spreading, which would render the person ceremonially unclean.

4. The Seventh Day
A specific time frame for re-examination, emphasizing the importance of thorough observation and the passage of time in determining the nature of the disease.

5. Unclean Declaration
A significant pronouncement that affected the individual's ability to participate in community and religious life, highlighting the seriousness of maintaining purity.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest's role in examining and declaring someone clean or unclean underscores the importance of spiritual leadership and discernment in addressing issues within the community.

The Significance of Time
The seven-day waiting period before re-examination teaches patience and the need for careful observation before making judgments about others.

The Impact of Uncleanness
Being declared unclean had profound social and spiritual implications, reminding us of the seriousness of sin and the need for purity in our lives.

Restoration and Hope
While the declaration of uncleanness was severe, the provision for cleansing in subsequent chapters offers hope for restoration, mirroring the redemptive work of Christ.

Community Responsibility
The community's role in supporting those who are unclean, while maintaining purity, reflects the balance of grace and truth in Christian fellowship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 13:27 reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?

2. What can we learn from the seven-day waiting period about the importance of patience and discernment in our own decision-making processes?

3. In what ways does the concept of being declared "unclean" in Leviticus relate to the New Testament understanding of sin and redemption?

4. How does Jesus' healing of lepers in the Gospels fulfill and transform the laws concerning cleanliness in Leviticus?

5. What practical steps can we take as a community to support those who are struggling, while also upholding the standards of purity and holiness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 14
This chapter provides the procedures for cleansing a person who has been healed of a skin disease, showing the path to restoration and reintegration into the community.

Mark 1:40-45
The healing of a leper by Jesus demonstrates His authority over disease and His willingness to restore those deemed unclean, fulfilling the law with compassion.

Isaiah 53:4-5
This passage speaks of the suffering servant who bears our infirmities, connecting the physical and spiritual healing provided through Christ.