Old Testament
Leviticus 13:56
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But if the priest examines it and the contamination has faded after washing, he must tear the affected section out of the garment, the leather, or the threads.
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And if the priest look, and, behold, the plague be somewhat dark after the washing of it; then he shall rend it out of the garment, or out of the skin, or out of the warp, or out of the woof:
What Leviticus 13:56 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 13:56, the priest is instructed to examine a garment or leather item for signs of contamination, which could indicate a skin disease. If, after washing, the discoloration remains, it suggests that the contamination is still present. In such cases, the priest must remove the affected part of the material to prevent the spread of the disease. This process emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and the need to take decisive action when dealing with potential contamination. The removal of the affected section serves both as a practical measure to protect the community and as a symbolic act of purifying what is unclean. This reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness and the need for God's people to maintain purity in their lives and surroundings.
How to apply Leviticus 13:56 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of addressing issues of contamination or sin in our lives. Just as the priest had to take action to remove the affected part, we should be proactive in dealing with negative influences or behaviors that can harm our spiritual health and the well-being of those around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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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 13:56 mean?
Leviticus 13:56 instructs the priest to examine a garment or leather for signs of contamination. If discoloration remains after washing, the priest must remove the affected part to prevent the spread of disease, highlighting the importance of cleanliness and purity.
What is the significance of the priest's role in Leviticus 13:56?
In Leviticus 13:56, the priest's role is crucial as he is responsible for examining items for contamination. His actions ensure that any potential spread of disease is addressed, reflecting the community's need for health and purity.
What does 'contamination' refer to in Leviticus 13:56?
In Leviticus 13:56, 'contamination' refers to signs of a skin disease that may affect garments or leather. The verse emphasizes the need to identify and remove any affected material to maintain cleanliness.
How does Leviticus 13:56 relate to personal purity?
Leviticus 13:56 illustrates the importance of addressing contamination, which can be applied to personal purity. Just as the priest removes affected material, individuals should actively deal with negative influences or behaviors in their lives.
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