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Book of Leviticus - Chapter 14 - Verse 3

14:3
And the priest shall go forth out of the camp; and the priest shall look, and, behold, if the plague of leprosy be healed in the leper;

Meaning

When the priest goes out of the camp to inspect a person with leprosy, it symbolizes the separation of those who are considered unclean from the rest of the community. In the Bible, leprosy is often used as a metaphor for sin and impurity. The act of the priest examining the healed leper signifies the restoration of the individual's health and spiritual well-being. It is a sign that the person has been cleansed of their sin and is now able to rejoin society. This verse speaks to the importance of healing and forgiveness, showing that through faith and repentance, one can be restored and welcomed back into the community. It highlights the role of the priest as a mediator between God and the people, overseeing the process of purification and reconciliation. Overall, this verse teaches us about the power of healing, redemption, and the significance of spiritual renewal.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the idea of the priest going forth out of the camp to examine the healed leper has theological implications. The priest served as an intermediary between the people and God, and his role in inspecting the leper was crucial in determining the individual's status and their ability to be reintegrated into the community. This act of inspection not only dealt with physical healing but also symbolized the restoration of spiritual well-being. The word 'healed' in this context carries a deeper meaning beyond just physical recovery; it speaks to the restoration of one's identity and place within the community. This verse emphasizes the importance of not only physical healing but also spiritual restoration, highlighting the priest's role in facilitating this process. Through the theological interpretation of this verse, we see the priest as a figure of spiritual guidance and restoration, guiding the individual back into the community after being made whole. As we reflect on the significance of this act, we are reminded of the importance of both physical and spiritual healing in our lives.

American Standard Version

and the priest shall go forth out of the camp; and the priest shall look; and, behold, if the plague of leprosy be healed in the leper,
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