Old Testament
Leviticus 13:29
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When a man or woman has a sore on the head or the beard,
Compare translations
If a man or woman have a plague upon the head or the beard;
What Leviticus 13:29 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Leviticus 13:29 addresses the issue of skin diseases, specifically those that appear on the head or beard of a person. In ancient Israel, these conditions were taken seriously as they could indicate a contagious disease or a form of ritual impurity. The text emphasizes the importance of identifying and diagnosing such ailments, which were often examined by priests. The presence of a sore in these areas could lead to isolation from the community until a proper assessment was made. This reflects the broader theme of health and purity in the community, highlighting the need for vigilance regarding physical and spiritual well-being. The regulations served not only to protect individuals but also to maintain the overall health of the community, ensuring that everyone adhered to the standards set forth in the law. Thus, this verse underscores the significance of communal health and the role of religious leaders in maintaining it.
How to apply Leviticus 13:29 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of seeking help when we notice something unusual about our health. Just as the Israelites consulted priests, we should consult medical professionals for our physical ailments. Additionally, it encourages us to be mindful of our community's well-being and support one another in times of need.
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 13:29
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 13:29
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 13:29 say about skin diseases?
Leviticus 13:29 discusses skin diseases that appear on the head or beard of a person. It highlights the seriousness of these conditions in ancient Israel, where they were seen as potential indicators of contagious diseases or ritual impurity. The verse emphasizes the need for careful examination by priests to determine the nature of the ailment.
Why were skin diseases significant in ancient Israel?
In ancient Israel, skin diseases were significant because they could lead to isolation from the community and were often associated with spiritual and physical health. The community relied on priests to diagnose these conditions, which reflected a broader concern for communal purity and health. This practice helped maintain the well-being of the community by preventing the spread of disease.
How can we apply Leviticus 13:29 to modern health practices?
Leviticus 13:29 encourages us to seek medical help when we notice unusual health issues. Just as the Israelites consulted priests for diagnosis, we should consult healthcare professionals for our ailments. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of being proactive about our health and supporting each other in maintaining well-being.
What themes are present in Leviticus 13:29?
Leviticus 13:29 encompasses several themes, including health, purity, community, spirituality, ritual, and law. It underscores the importance of physical and spiritual well-being, the role of religious leaders in maintaining community health, and the need for vigilance regarding one's health and the health of others.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.