Old Testament
Leviticus 13:12
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Leviticus 13:12, the text describes a situation where a skin disease, referred to as leprosy, has spread extensively over a person's body.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
If the leprosy breaks out and spreads across the entire body, covering the person's skin from head to foot — everywhere the priest can see —
And if a leprosy break out abroad in the skin, and the leprosy cover all the skin of him that hath the plague from his head even to his foot, wheresoever the priest looketh;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 13:12, the text describes a situation where a skin disease, referred to as leprosy, has spread extensively over a person's body. This condition is serious enough that it covers the skin from head to toe, making it visible to the priest who is responsible for examining such ailments. The priest's role is crucial in determining the state of the individual’s health and whether they are clean or unclean according to the laws given to the Israelites. The emphasis on the priest's ability to see the condition highlights the importance of thorough examination and the communal aspect of health in ancient Israel. This verse underscores the seriousness of skin diseases and the need for proper assessment and care, reflecting the broader themes of purity and community health in the Levitical laws. Explore related obedience.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Leviticus 13:12 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of seeking help and guidance when facing health issues. Just as the priest was responsible for assessing physical conditions, we should rely on trusted professionals for our well-being. It encourages us to be vigilant about our health and the health of those around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 13:12 mean?
Leviticus 13:12 describes a severe case of leprosy where the disease covers a person's entire body, indicating a serious health condition that requires examination by a priest.
What is the meaning of leprosy in Leviticus 13:12?
In Leviticus 13:12, leprosy refers to a skin disease that can render a person unclean, highlighting the importance of health and purity in the community.
Why is the priest's examination important in Leviticus 13:12?
The priest's examination in Leviticus 13:12 is crucial because it determines the individual's health status and whether they are considered clean or unclean under the law.
How does Leviticus 13:12 relate to community health?
Leviticus 13:12 relates to community health by illustrating the collective responsibility of assessing and managing health issues, reflecting the communal standards of purity in ancient Israel.

The Book of Leviticus
Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering
The LORD calls to Moses from the tabernacle and gives instructions for the burnt offering. A man who brings a burnt offering from the herd presents a male without blemish at the door of the tabernacle. He lays his hand on the head of the offering, kills it, and Aaron's sons the priests sprinkle the blood around the altar. The animal is flayed and cut into pieces, and the whole is burned on the altar as a sweet savor to the LORD.
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