Old Testament
Leviticus 13:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The priest will examine the affected area on the skin. If the hair in that spot has turned white and the sore appears to go deeper than the surface of the skin, it is leprosy. After examining the person, the priest must declare them unclean.
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And the priest shall look on the plague in the skin of the flesh: and when the hair in the plague is turned white, and the plague in sight be deeper than the skin of his flesh, it is a plague of leprosy: and the priest shall look on him, and pronounce him unclean.
What Leviticus 13:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 13:3, the process of diagnosing skin diseases, particularly leprosy, is outlined. A priest is responsible for examining any skin afflictions. If the hair in the affected area has turned white and the sore appears to penetrate deeper than the skin's surface, it is identified as leprosy. This diagnosis is significant because leprosy was considered a serious condition that rendered a person unclean, meaning they were separated from the community. The priest's role is crucial in maintaining the health and purity of the community by identifying and declaring those who are unclean. This process emphasizes the importance of careful observation and discernment in matters of health and spiritual cleanliness, reflecting the broader theme of holiness in the community.
How to apply Leviticus 13:3 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of seeking help from trusted authorities when facing health issues. It encourages us to be vigilant about our well-being and to support others in maintaining their health, both physically and spiritually.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Keep studying Leviticus 13:3
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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 13:3 mean?
Leviticus 13:3 outlines the process for a priest to diagnose skin diseases, specifically leprosy. It states that if the hair in the affected area turns white and the sore goes deeper than the skin, the priest must declare the person unclean.
What is the significance of leprosy in Leviticus 13:3?
Leprosy in Leviticus 13:3 signifies a serious skin condition that renders a person unclean, leading to separation from the community. This diagnosis emphasizes the importance of health and purity within the community.
What are the priest's duties in Leviticus 13:3?
In Leviticus 13:3, the priest's duty is to examine skin afflictions and determine if they are leprosy. The priest must carefully observe the symptoms and declare the individual unclean if the criteria are met.
How does Leviticus 13:3 relate to community health?
Leviticus 13:3 relates to community health by highlighting the priest's role in identifying and managing skin diseases. This process helps maintain the overall health and purity of the community by preventing the spread of serious conditions.
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