Old Testament
Leviticus 13:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The priest will examine it. If it appears to go deeper than the surrounding skin and the hair in it has turned white, the priest must declare the person unclean. It is leprosy that has broken out from the boil.
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And if, when the priest seeth it, behold, it be in sight lower than the skin, and the hair thereof be turned white; the priest shall pronounce him unclean: it is a plague of leprosy broken out of the boil.
What Leviticus 13:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 13:20, the priest plays a crucial role in diagnosing skin conditions, particularly leprosy. If a person has a boil that shows signs of infection, such as a deeper appearance than the surrounding skin and white hair in the affected area, the priest must declare the individual unclean. This process emphasizes the importance of careful examination and the need for community health standards. The priest's judgment is vital for maintaining the purity of the community, as leprosy was seen as a serious condition that could spread. This verse highlights the intersection of physical health and spiritual cleanliness, showing how the community's well-being is tied to individual health assessments. The priest's role is not just medical but also spiritual, as declaring someone unclean has significant implications for their social and religious life.
How to apply Leviticus 13:20 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of seeking help when facing health issues. Just as the priest examined the skin condition, we should consult professionals for our health concerns. Additionally, it encourages us to support one another in maintaining both physical and spiritual well-being within our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 13:20 say about leprosy?
Leviticus 13:20 describes the process by which a priest examines a boil for signs of leprosy. If the boil appears to be deeper than the surrounding skin and has white hair, the priest must declare the person unclean. This highlights the priest's role in diagnosing skin conditions and maintaining community health standards.
Why is the priest's examination important in Leviticus 13:20?
The priest's examination in Leviticus 13:20 is crucial because it determines whether an individual is considered clean or unclean. This judgment affects not only the person's health but also their social and spiritual standing within the community. The priest's role underscores the connection between physical health and spiritual purity.
How can we apply Leviticus 13:20 to modern health practices?
Leviticus 13:20 encourages us to seek professional help for health issues, just as the priest examined skin conditions. It reminds us of the importance of consulting healthcare providers for accurate diagnoses and treatments. Additionally, it highlights the need for community support in maintaining both physical and spiritual well-being.
What are the social implications of being declared unclean in Leviticus 13:20?
Being declared unclean in Leviticus 13:20 had significant social implications, as it often led to isolation from the community and restrictions on participation in religious activities. This reflects the broader theme of how health and spiritual cleanliness were intertwined in ancient Israelite society, affecting an individual's social relationships.
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