Old Testament
Leviticus 13:59
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This is the law concerning the plague of leprosy in a garment made of wool or linen, whether in the warp, the woof, or anything made of leather, to determine if it is clean or unclean.
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This is the law of the plague of leprosy in a garment of woollen or linen, either in the warp, or woof, or any thing of skins, to pronounce it clean, or to pronounce it unclean.
What Leviticus 13:59 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Leviticus 13:59 outlines the regulations regarding leprosy, specifically as it pertains to garments made from wool, linen, or leather. The verse emphasizes the importance of examining these materials for signs of leprosy, which could render them unclean. The terms 'warp' and 'woof' refer to the threads used in weaving, indicating that the entire fabric must be inspected. This law reflects the broader theme of purity and cleanliness in the community, as garments could carry spiritual implications. The priest was responsible for determining whether the garment was clean or unclean, highlighting the role of religious leaders in maintaining community health and holiness. This law serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in matters of cleanliness and the importance of following prescribed guidelines to ensure communal well-being.
How to apply Leviticus 13:59 to your life
In our lives today, we can apply the principle of vigilance in maintaining our personal and communal environments. Just as the Israelites were instructed to examine garments for leprosy, we should regularly assess our surroundings and relationships for negativity or harmful influences, ensuring we foster a healthy and positive atmosphere.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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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 13:59 mean?
Leviticus 13:59 provides guidelines for identifying leprosy in garments made of wool, linen, or leather. It emphasizes the need for careful inspection of these materials to determine their cleanliness, reflecting the importance of purity in the community.
What is the significance of 'warp' and 'woof' in Leviticus 13:59?
The terms 'warp' and 'woof' refer to the threads used in weaving fabric. Their mention in Leviticus 13:59 indicates that the entire garment must be examined for signs of leprosy, highlighting thoroughness in maintaining cleanliness.
How does Leviticus 13:59 relate to community health?
This verse underscores the importance of cleanliness and purity in the community by regulating the inspection of garments. It reflects a broader concern for communal health, as unclean items could have spiritual and social implications.
Who determines if a garment is clean or unclean in Leviticus 13:59?
In Leviticus 13:59, it is the priest's responsibility to examine the garment and determine whether it is clean or unclean. This highlights the role of religious leaders in maintaining the health and purity of the community.
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