Leviticus 13:6

The priest will examine him again on the seventh day, and if the sore has faded and has not spread on the skin, the priest shall pronounce him clean; it is a rash. The person must wash his clothes and be clean.

Study Bible

The priest will examine him again on the seventh day
In the ancient Israelite community, the role of the priest extended beyond spiritual duties to include health inspections, particularly concerning skin diseases. The seventh day is significant, symbolizing completion and divine order, as seen in the creation narrative (Genesis 2:2-3). This period allowed time for observation and potential healing, reflecting God's provision for both physical and spiritual well-being.

and if the sore has faded and has not spread on the skin
The fading and non-spreading of the sore were critical indicators of healing or non-contagiousness. In a time without modern medicine, visual inspection was the primary diagnostic tool. This reflects the importance of community health and the prevention of disease spread, akin to quarantine practices. The emphasis on visible signs parallels the biblical theme of inner spiritual conditions being reflected outwardly (Matthew 7:16-20).

the priest shall pronounce him clean; it is a rash
The priest's pronouncement of cleanliness restored the individual to full participation in the community and religious life. This declaration was not just a medical diagnosis but a spiritual and social reinstatement. The term "rash" indicates a non-threatening condition, distinguishing it from more serious skin diseases like leprosy. This act of pronouncement can be seen as a type of Christ's role as the ultimate High Priest who declares believers clean from sin (Hebrews 4:14-16).

The person must wash his clothes and be clean
Washing clothes symbolized purification and a fresh start, aligning with the broader biblical theme of cleansing from impurity (Isaiah 1:16-18). This act was both a physical and spiritual cleansing, preparing the individual to re-enter communal worship and daily life. It foreshadows the New Testament concept of baptism, representing the washing away of sin and the believer's new life in Christ (Acts 22:16).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
- The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai.

2. Priest
- The individual responsible for examining skin diseases and determining the cleanliness or uncleanliness of a person.

3. Israelites
- The people to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, forming the community governed by these laws.

4. Leprosy
- A term used in the Bible to describe various skin diseases, not necessarily the modern disease known as leprosy.

5. Tabernacle
- The central place of worship for the Israelites, where the priests served and where the laws were often applied.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest acted as a mediator between God and the people, reflecting the importance of spiritual leadership and discernment in the community.

Holiness and Community Health
The laws concerning skin diseases were not only about physical health but also about maintaining the holiness and purity of the community.

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

Jesus as the Ultimate Healer
In the New Testament, Jesus fulfills the law by providing ultimate healing and restoration, both physically and spiritually.

Community Responsibility
The community's role in supporting those who were unclean reflects the importance of compassion and support within the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 13:6 reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of examination and discernment from Leviticus 13:6 to our spiritual lives?

3. How does the concept of cleanliness in Leviticus relate to the New Testament teachings on holiness and purity?

4. What can we learn from Jesus' interactions with lepers in the Gospels about His approach to those considered "unclean"?

5. How can the church today support individuals who are marginalized or considered "unclean" by society, in light of Leviticus 13:6?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 12
The account of Miriam's leprosy provides a account context for understanding the seriousness of skin diseases in Israelite society.

Matthew 8
Jesus' healing of a leper demonstrates His authority over disease and His fulfillment of the law.

2 Kings 5
The healing of Naaman the Syrian shows God's power and mercy extending beyond Israel.

Mark 1
Jesus' compassion in healing a leper highlights the New Testament's emphasis on grace and restoration.

Luke 17
The account of the ten lepers healed by Jesus underscores themes of gratitude and faith.