Old Testament
Leviticus 13:36
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Leviticus 13:36, the focus is on the role of the priest in determining the state of a person's skin condition, specifically a type of infection known as 'scall.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
the priest must examine them again. If the infection has spread, the priest doesn't even need to look for yellowish hair — the person is unclean.
Then the priest shall look on him: and, behold, if the scall be spread in the skin, the priest shall not seek for yellow hair; he is unclean.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 13:36, the focus is on the role of the priest in determining the state of a person's skin condition, specifically a type of infection known as 'scall.' If the infection has spread, the priest does not need to check for specific signs, such as yellowish hair, to declare the person unclean. This indicates that the spread of the infection is a clear sign of impurity, and further examination for other symptoms is unnecessary. The priest's judgment is crucial in maintaining the community's health and purity, reflecting the seriousness of skin diseases in ancient Israelite society. The emphasis is on the visible evidence of the condition rather than on additional tests, highlighting the importance of clear and decisive action in matters of health and cleanliness. Explore related healing.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Leviticus 13:36 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of addressing issues of health and cleanliness in our lives and communities. It encourages us to seek help when we notice problems and to rely on trusted authorities for guidance. Being proactive can prevent further complications.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 13:36 say about skin infections?
Leviticus 13:36 addresses the role of the priest in examining skin infections, specifically a condition referred to as 'scall.' If the infection has spread, the priest does not need to look for additional signs, such as yellowish hair, to determine that the person is unclean. This highlights the importance of visible symptoms in assessing health and purity within the community.
Why is the priest's examination important in Leviticus 13:36?
The priest's examination is crucial because it serves as a means of maintaining community health and purity. In ancient Israelite society, skin diseases were taken seriously, and the priest acted as an authority figure to make judgments about cleanliness. This process ensured that individuals with infections were identified and managed appropriately to prevent the spread of disease.
What can we learn from Leviticus 13:36 about health issues?
Leviticus 13:36 teaches us the importance of addressing health issues promptly and seeking guidance from trusted authorities. It emphasizes being proactive in recognizing and dealing with problems, which can help prevent complications. This principle can be applied in modern contexts, encouraging individuals to consult healthcare professionals when they notice concerning symptoms.
How does Leviticus 13:36 relate to community standards?
This verse reflects the community standards of ancient Israel regarding health and cleanliness. It underscores the collective responsibility to maintain purity and prevent the spread of infections. By relying on the priest's judgment, the community upheld standards that protected its members, illustrating the importance of communal health and the role of authority in enforcing these standards.
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