Old Testament
Leviticus 13:22
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Leviticus 13:22, the focus is on the assessment of skin conditions by a priest.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
If it spreads widely on the skin, the priest shall declare him unclean: it is a plague.
And if it spread much abroad in the skin, then the priest shall pronounce him unclean: it is a plague.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

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.
Unlock the full Leviticus summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Leviticus — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 27 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Leviticus summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.