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Book of Leviticus - Chapter 13 - Verse 12

13:12
And if a leprosy break out abroad in the skin, and the leprosy cover all the skin of him that hath the plague from his head even to his foot, wheresoever the priest looketh;

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Leviticus in the Bible, it describes a scenario where a person has developed a severe case of leprosy that covers their entire body from head to foot. Leprosy is a serious skin disease that was common during biblical times, and those who were infected were often isolated from society. The mention of the leprosy covering the skin from head to foot signifies the severity and extent of the disease on the individual. The verse also mentions that the priest is to inspect the person with leprosy, indicating that the priest played a crucial role in diagnosing and determining the severity of the disease. This verse highlights the importance of addressing and dealing with serious skin diseases in a prompt and thorough manner, as well as the role of religious leaders in providing guidance and support to those affected by such conditions.

Theological Overview

The verse you have just read is from the book of Leviticus in the Old Testament, specifically Leviticus 13:12. This verse discusses the ancient Hebrew laws regarding leprosy and how it was to be dealt with by the priests. In the context of theology, leprosy in the Bible is often seen as a symbol of sin and impurity. The meticulous instructions given in this verse indicate the seriousness with which the Israelites viewed leprosy and the measures they took to prevent its spread. The detailed examination of the skin by the priests shows the importance of purity and cleanliness in the eyes of God. Word studies on phrases like "break out abroad" and "wheresoever the priest looketh" can provide further insight into the specific actions and observations made by the priests in diagnosing leprosy. Overall, this verse sheds light on the ancient customs and beliefs surrounding leprosy and demonstrates the importance of spiritual and physical purity in the eyes of the Israelites.

American Standard Version

And if the leprosy break out abroad in the skin, and the leprosy cover all the skin of [him that hath] the plague from his head even to his feet, as far as appeareth to the priest;
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