Old Testament
Leviticus 13:57
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Leviticus 13:57, the text addresses the issue of contamination in fabrics and leather goods.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
If the contamination reappears in the fabric — in the woven threads, the cross-threads, or anything made of leather — it is spreading. You must burn the entire contaminated item in the fire.
And if it appear still in the garment, either in the warp, or in the woof, or in any thing of skin; it is a spreading plague: thou shalt burn that wherein the plague is with fire.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 13:57, the text addresses the issue of contamination in fabrics and leather goods. If a sign of contamination reappears in the material, it indicates that the infection is spreading. The instruction is clear: the entire item must be burned to prevent further spread of the contamination. This reflects the seriousness of maintaining purity and cleanliness in the community, as well as the need to take decisive action against anything that poses a risk of spreading disease. The burning of the contaminated item symbolizes a complete removal of the threat, emphasizing the importance of addressing issues before they escalate. This practice also serves as a reminder of the broader spiritual implications of sin and impurity, urging individuals to be vigilant in their lives and communities.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Leviticus 13:57 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of addressing problems promptly before they worsen. In our lives, we should be proactive in dealing with issues that can harm our well-being or relationships. Just as contaminated items were destroyed, we should remove negative influences or behaviors that threaten our integrity and health.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 13:57 mean?
Leviticus 13:57 discusses how to handle contamination in fabrics and leather. If signs of contamination reappear, it indicates the infection is spreading, and the item must be burned to prevent further contamination.
What is the significance of burning contaminated items in Leviticus 13:57?
Burning contaminated items in Leviticus 13:57 symbolizes the complete removal of a threat to community health. It emphasizes the importance of addressing contamination decisively to maintain purity and prevent the spread of disease.
What does 'spreading plague' refer to in Leviticus 13:57?
In Leviticus 13:57, 'spreading plague' refers to the recurrence of contamination in fabrics or leather goods. This indicates that the infection is not contained and poses a risk to the community.
How does Leviticus 13:57 apply to modern life?
Leviticus 13:57 teaches the importance of addressing problems promptly before they escalate. In modern life, it encourages us to remove negative influences or behaviors that can harm our well-being or relationships.

The Book of Leviticus
Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering
The LORD calls to Moses from the tabernacle and gives instructions for the burnt offering. A man who brings a burnt offering from the herd presents a male without blemish at the door of the tabernacle. He lays his hand on the head of the offering, kills it, and Aaron's sons the priests sprinkle the blood around the altar. The animal is flayed and cut into pieces, and the whole is burned on the altar as a sweet savor to the LORD.
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