Old Testament
Leviticus 13:33
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
the person must shave the area around the infection but not shave the scaly patch itself. Then the priest must isolate them for another 7 days.
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He shall be shaven, but the scall shall he not shave; and the priest shall shut up him that hath the scall seven days more:
What Leviticus 13:33 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 13:33, the instructions focus on how to handle a skin condition known as 'scall.' The person affected must shave the hair around the infected area but must not shave the scaly patch itself. This distinction is important for maintaining the integrity of the diagnosis. After this grooming, the priest is to isolate the individual for an additional seven days to monitor the condition. This process reflects the careful and methodical approach to health and purity in ancient Israelite society, emphasizing the need for both physical and spiritual cleanliness. The isolation period allows for a thorough examination of the condition to determine if it is contagious or if it can be declared clean. This practice underscores the importance of community health and the role of the priest as a mediator in matters of health and purity.
How to apply Leviticus 13:33 to your life
This verse teaches the importance of addressing health issues with care and attention. It reminds us to seek help when facing personal challenges and to follow guidelines that promote well-being. Additionally, it highlights the value of community support during difficult times.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Keep studying Leviticus 13:33
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Key themes
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 13:33 say about skin conditions?
Leviticus 13:33 provides specific instructions for dealing with a skin condition known as 'scall.' It states that the affected person must shave the hair around the infected area but must not shave the scaly patch itself. This is important for maintaining the integrity of the diagnosis. After this grooming, the priest is to isolate the individual for an additional seven days to monitor the condition.
Why is isolation mentioned in Leviticus 13:33?
Isolation in Leviticus 13:33 serves to protect the community from potential contagion and to allow for careful examination of the skin condition. The additional seven days of isolation enable the priest to assess whether the condition is contagious or if the individual can be declared clean. This practice reflects the ancient Israelite emphasis on health, purity, and community well-being.
What is the significance of not shaving the scaly patch?
Not shaving the scaly patch itself is significant because it helps maintain the integrity of the diagnosis. The scaly area must remain intact for the priest to accurately assess the condition during the isolation period. This distinction underscores the careful and methodical approach to health and purity in ancient Israelite society.
How does Leviticus 13:33 relate to community health?
Leviticus 13:33 highlights the importance of community health by emphasizing the need for careful monitoring of skin conditions. The isolation and grooming practices reflect a collective responsibility to maintain purity and prevent the spread of illness. This verse illustrates how individual health issues can impact the broader community and the role of the priest in safeguarding public health.
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