Old Testament
Leviticus 13:22
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
If it spreads widely on the skin, the priest shall declare him unclean: it is a plague.
Compare translations
And if it spread much abroad in the skin, then the priest shall pronounce him unclean: it is a plague.
What Leviticus 13:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 13:22, the focus is on the assessment of skin conditions by a priest. If a skin issue spreads significantly, it is classified as a plague, indicating a serious health concern. The priest's role is crucial in determining cleanliness, which is essential for community health and spiritual purity. This verse highlights the importance of careful observation and the need for a qualified authority to make judgments about health issues. The term 'plague' suggests that the condition is not just a minor ailment but something that could affect the individual and potentially others. The priest's declaration of uncleanliness serves as a protective measure for the community, ensuring that those with contagious conditions are identified and managed appropriately. This process reflects the broader biblical theme of maintaining purity and health within the community, emphasizing the need for vigilance in matters of health and spiritual well-being.
How to apply Leviticus 13:22 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of seeking help from qualified individuals when facing health issues. It encourages us to be vigilant about our health and the health of those around us, promoting a culture of care and responsibility in our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Leviticus 13:22
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Leviticus 13:22
Related Bible verses
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 13:22 mean?
Leviticus 13:22 discusses how a priest assesses skin conditions. If a skin issue spreads widely, it is deemed a plague, indicating a serious health risk and the need for the individual to be declared unclean.
What is the significance of the priest's role in Leviticus 13:22?
The priest's role in Leviticus 13:22 is crucial for determining cleanliness and health within the community. His assessment helps identify contagious conditions, ensuring the protection of both individual and communal well-being.
What does the term 'plague' refer to in Leviticus 13:22?
In Leviticus 13:22, the term 'plague' refers to a serious skin condition that spreads significantly. It indicates that the issue is not minor and poses a potential health threat to the individual and others.
How does Leviticus 13:22 relate to community health?
Leviticus 13:22 emphasizes the importance of monitoring health conditions to maintain community safety. By declaring individuals unclean when necessary, it helps prevent the spread of contagious diseases.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.