Leviticus 13:32

Translation
King James Version
And in the seventh day the priest shall look on the plague: and, behold, if the scall spread not, and there be in it no yellow hair, and the scall be not in sight deeper than the skin;
Ask
KJV (with Strong's)
And in the seventh H7637 day H3117 the priest H3548 shall look H7200 on the plague H5061: and, behold, if the scall H5424 spread H6581 not, and there be in it no yellow H6669 hair H8181, and the scall H5424 be not in sight H4758 deeper H6013 than the skin H5785;
Ask
Complete Jewish Bible
On the seventh day the cohen is to examine the sore, and if he sees that the crusted area hasn't spread, that it has no yellow hair in it, and that the crusted area is not deeper than the skin around it;
Ask
Berean Standard Bible
On the seventh day the priest is to reexamine the infection, and if the scaly outbreak has not spread and there is no yellow hair in it, and it does not appear to be deeper than the skin,
Ask
American Standard Version
and in the seventh day the priest shall look on the plague; and, behold, if the scall be not spread, and there be in it no yellow hair, and the appearance of the scall be not deeper than the skin,
Ask
World English Bible Messianic
On the seventh day the priest shall examine the plague; and behold, if the itch hasn’t spread, and there is no yellow hair in it, and the appearance of the itch isn’t deeper than the skin,
Ask
Geneva Bible (1599)
After, in the seuenth day the Priest shall looke on the sore: and if the blacke spot growe not, and there be in it no yelowe heare, and the blacke spot seeme not lower then the skinne,
Ask
Young's Literal Translation
`And the priest hath seen the plague on the seventh day, and lo, the scall hath not spread, and a shining hair hath not been in it, and the appearance of the scall is not deeper than the skin,
Ask
See also
Romans 2:23Matthew 23:5Leviticus 13:30Luke 18:9Luke 18:12
In the KJVVerse 3,085 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Leviticus 13:32 is a pivotal verse within the Mosaic Law's detailed instructions for diagnosing and managing various skin afflictions, often broadly categorized as "leprosy" (tzara'at). This verse specifically outlines the precise diagnostic criteria the priest must observe during a follow-up examination of a suspected "scall" on the head or beard after an initial period of isolation. It highlights God's meticulous concern for the physical and ceremonial purity of His people, emphasizing careful observation and discernment before a definitive judgment of clean or unclean is rendered, thereby safeguarding both individual well-being and communal holiness.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Leviticus 13 and 14 form a comprehensive legal corpus dedicated to the diagnosis, isolation, and purification rituals associated with tzara'at, a term that encompasses a range of severe skin conditions, mildew on garments, and mold in houses. Following the initial examination and a seven-day period of isolation for a suspected skin lesion on the head or beard (as detailed in Leviticus 13:29-31), verse 32 describes the priest's re-examination. The criteria presented here—the absence of spreading, no yellow hair within the lesion, and the lesion not appearing deeper than the skin—are crucial indicators that the condition might be benign or healing, warranting further observation rather than immediate pronouncement of uncleanness and expulsion from the camp. This meticulous process underscores the gravity of tzara'at and the importance of accurate priestly discernment within the broader legal framework of the Pentateuch.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, tzara'at was not merely a physical ailment but carried profound social and spiritual implications. It rendered an individual ceremonially unclean, leading to temporary or permanent exclusion from the community and the tabernacle worship (as seen in Leviticus 13:45-46). The priest, acting as both a spiritual authority and a public health officer, played a critical role in maintaining the holiness of the camp, which was essential for God's presence to dwell among His people. These laws, found throughout the Book of Leviticus, were designed to prevent the spread of disease, teach the Israelites about God's holy nature, and impress upon them the seriousness of sin and impurity. The emphasis on careful, repeated observation rather than hasty judgment reflects a divinely ordained wisdom, valuing accuracy and patience in matters of profound communal and individual consequence in a society where ritual purity was paramount.
  • Key Themes: This verse contributes significantly to several key themes prevalent in the Book of Leviticus. Foremost is the theme of Holiness and Purity, emphasizing God's demand for a set-apart people who reflect His own holy character, as articulated in Leviticus 11:44. The meticulous diagnostic process highlights the theme of Divine Order and Wisdom, demonstrating God's sovereign design for the well-being of His covenant community and the prevention of chaos or disease. Furthermore, the priest's role underscores the theme of Mediation and Discernment, as he serves as the divinely appointed authority to distinguish between the clean and the unclean, thereby upholding the sanctity of the tabernacle and the community. The conditional nature of the diagnosis also subtly introduces the theme of Patience and Due Process, teaching the importance of careful observation before rendering a final judgment, a principle applicable far beyond physical ailments.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Day (Hebrew, yôwm', H3117): From an unused root meaning to be hot; this term (H3117) denotes a period of time, specifically "the seventh day" (H7637, shᵉbîyʻîy). In this context, it marks a precise, divinely ordained timeframe for the re-examination, emphasizing the structured and patient approach required for diagnosis. The "seventh day" is not arbitrary but signifies a complete cycle of observation, allowing for the natural progression or regression of the condition before a definitive judgment.
  • Priest (Hebrew, kôhên', H3548): The active participle (H3548) of a root meaning "to officiate," this word refers to the designated religious authority responsible for mediating between God and the people. In Leviticus 13, the priest's role extends beyond sacrificial duties to include public health and ceremonial purity, acting as the divinely appointed diagnostician. His "looking" (H7200, râʼâh) on the plague is an act of official, discerning observation, not merely casual inspection.
  • Scall (Hebrew, netheq', H5424): This specific term (H5424) describes a type of scurf or dry scabby eruption, particularly on the head or beard. Unlike the broader term negaʻ (H5061, "plague" or "affliction"), netheq denotes a localized, often persistent, skin condition that required specific diagnostic criteria due to its potential to be tzara'at. The KJV's "scall" accurately captures the sense of a crusty or scabby lesion, which the priest must carefully examine for signs of spreading, yellow hair, or depth.

Verse Breakdown

  • "And in the seventh day the priest shall look on the plague:" This clause establishes the critical timing of the re-examination. After an initial seven-day isolation period, the priest's role as the authorized diagnostician is re-emphasized. This waiting period allows for the natural progression or regression of the condition, preventing premature or inaccurate judgments based on initial symptoms. The "plague" (H5061, negaʻ) here is the general affliction that is the object of the priest's scrutiny.
  • "and, behold, [if] the scall spread not," The absence of spreading (H6581, pâsâh) is the first positive diagnostic sign. If the lesion, specifically the "scall" (H5424, netheq), has not grown in size or extended its boundaries since the initial examination, it indicates a less aggressive or non-tzara'at condition. This criterion underscores the importance of observing the dynamic nature of the affliction, as spreading was a key indicator of uncleanness in other forms of tzara'at.
  • "and there be in it no yellow hair," The lack of "yellow hair" (H6669, tsâhôb, and H8181, sêʻâr) within the netheq is the second crucial positive indicator. Unlike the white hair that often indicated uncleanness in other forms of tzara'at (e.g., Leviticus 13:3), yellow hair in a netheq was a negative indicator, suggesting a more severe or active condition that would likely lead to a pronouncement of uncleanness. Its absence, as stated in verse 32, was a positive sign that the condition was not the virulent form that would render the person unclean.
  • "and the scall [be] not in sight deeper than the skin;" This final criterion assesses the depth of the lesion. If the netheq does not appear to penetrate below the surface of the skin (H5785, ʻôwr) when viewed (H4758, marʼeh, "in sight"), it is considered a superficial condition. A lesion that appeared "deeper" (H6013, ʻâmôq) than the skin would indicate a more serious affliction, likely leading to a declaration of uncleanness. This detail highlights the meticulousness required for accurate diagnosis, emphasizing that true tzara'at was understood to be a deep-seated issue.

Literary Devices

Leviticus 13:32 employs several literary devices that enhance its instructional and theological impact. The most prominent is Legal Precision and Casuistry, characteristic of the Mosaic Law. The verse presents a series of specific, conditional clauses ("if... and... and...") that dictate the priest's diagnostic process. This meticulous detail ensures clarity, reduces ambiguity, and emphasizes the gravity of the judgment. There is also an element of Repetition throughout Leviticus 13, as similar diagnostic patterns (isolation, re-examination, specific signs like spreading or depth) are applied to various forms of tzara'at, reinforcing the consistent methodology and the priest's central role. Furthermore, the physical signs described (spreading, color of hair, depth) function as Symbolism, where the outward manifestation of the skin condition serves as a tangible representation of spiritual impurity or separation from the holy community. The meticulous observation of these physical signs thus becomes a metaphor for the careful discernment required in all matters of purity and holiness before God.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Leviticus 13:32, though dealing with ancient health regulations, profoundly reflects God's character and His desire for a holy people. It underscores the divine concern for order, purity, and the well-being of the community, both physically and spiritually. The meticulous instructions reveal a God who is not distant but intimately involved in the daily lives and health of His covenant people. The priest's role as a discerning authority highlights the importance of wise and patient judgment, avoiding rash conclusions. This passage teaches that true holiness is not merely an internal state but has outward manifestations that impact one's relationship with God and community. It also implicitly teaches the value of patience and careful observation before making definitive pronouncements, whether in physical health or spiritual matters.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

While the literal application of Leviticus 13:32 to modern skin conditions is no longer binding for believers under the New Covenant, the underlying principles offer timeless wisdom for our spiritual lives. This verse teaches us the profound value of patience, careful observation, and discernment before making judgments about ourselves or others. Just as the priest waited seven days and meticulously examined the "scall" for specific signs, we are called to avoid hasty conclusions in our spiritual walk, allowing time for situations to unfold, for truth to emerge, or for growth and healing to manifest. It reminds us that spiritual discernment requires a measured approach, not reacting impulsively but seeking wisdom and allowing God's Spirit to reveal His will over time. This passage also underscores God's profound concern for the holistic health and purity of His people, both individually and corporately, prompting us to consider what "spreading" or "deepening" spiritual impurities might look like in our own lives and how we might seek divine intervention and wise counsel.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what areas of your life are you tempted to make hasty judgments, and how can the principle of patient observation from Leviticus 13:32 guide you?
  • How can we apply the priest's meticulous discernment to our own spiritual growth and the way we interact with others in the church community?
  • What "yellow hairs" or signs of spiritual "spreading" might indicate a need for deeper self-examination or seeking wise counsel in your life?

FAQ

Why was the priest involved in diagnosing skin conditions like the "scall"?

Answer: In ancient Israel, the priest served as both a spiritual and a communal authority. Their involvement in diagnosing skin conditions like the "scall" (and other forms of tzara'at) stemmed from the understanding that such afflictions carried significant ceremonial and social implications. These conditions rendered an individual ceremonially unclean, preventing them from participating in worship and communal life. The priest's role was not merely medical, but primarily to determine ritual purity or impurity, thereby safeguarding the holiness of the camp and ensuring that only the ceremonially clean could approach God in worship. This intertwined role highlights the holistic nature of Israelite law, where physical health, social order, and spiritual purity were inseparable, reflecting God's comprehensive concern for His people.

What is a "scall" and how is it different from other skin conditions mentioned in Leviticus 13?

Answer: The "scall" (Hebrew: netheq) refers to a specific type of scabby or scurvy eruption, particularly found on the head or beard, as described in Leviticus 13:29-37. It is a localized lesion with distinct characteristics. While it falls under the broader category of negaʻ (plague or affliction), which is the general term for various skin diseases and mildew in Leviticus 13, the "scall" has its own unique diagnostic criteria. Other conditions in the chapter include general skin swellings, eruptions, or spots that turn white (e.g., Leviticus 13:2-8), boils (e.g., Leviticus 13:18-23), and burns (e.g., Leviticus 13:24-28). Each type of negaʻ had distinct signs (e.g., color, depth, spreading, hair changes) that the priest had to meticulously observe to determine if it was tzara'at and thus render the person unclean.

Are the laws concerning tzara'at (including the "scall") still relevant for believers today?

Answer: While the ceremonial laws regarding tzara'at are not literally binding for New Covenant believers, their underlying theological and spiritual principles remain highly relevant. These laws teach us about God's absolute holiness, His hatred of sin, and His desire for a pure people. They underscore the seriousness of spiritual impurity and the need for careful discernment in our lives and communities. Furthermore, they foreshadow the ultimate cleansing and healing offered through Christ. We are no longer made unclean by physical ailments but by sin, and our purification comes not through priestly diagnosis and ritual washing but through faith in Jesus. The emphasis on patience, careful observation, and seeking wisdom before judgment, as seen in Proverbs 18:13, also carries timeless wisdom for our spiritual walk, guiding us to apply these ancient truths to our contemporary spiritual lives.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Leviticus 13:32, with its meticulous diagnostic process for a "scall," finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus, the ultimate and perfect High Priest. Unlike the Levitical priest who could only diagnose and declare, Jesus possesses the power to truly cleanse and heal. The tzara'at laws, including those for the "scall," highlighted humanity's fallen state and the separation from God caused by sin, symbolized by the physical impurity. Jesus, however, did not merely observe from a distance; He touched the unclean, demonstrating His divine authority over sin and sickness (as seen in Mark 1:40-42, where He heals a man with tzara'at). He is the one who perfectly discerns the true condition of the human heart, seeing beyond outward appearances to the spiritual "plague" of sin (as affirmed in John 2:25). Through His sacrificial death on the cross, Jesus became the ultimate purification offering, removing the deep-seated stain of sin that no ritual or human priest could truly address (Hebrews 9:13-14). He not only identifies the "scall" of sin but eradicates it, bringing us into perfect communion with a holy God, fulfilling the very purpose of the purity laws by making us truly clean in His sight (Colossians 1:21-22).

Copy as

Commentary on Leviticus 13 verses 18–37

The priest is here instructed what judgment to make if there was any appearance of a leprosy, either, 1. In an old ulcer, or bile, that has been healed, Lev 13:18, etc. When old sores, that seemed to be cured, break out again, it is to be feared there is a leprosy in them; such is the danger of those who, having escaped the pollutions of the world, are again entangled therein and overcome. Or, 2. In a burn by accident, for this seems to be meant, Lev 13:24, etc. The burning of strife and contention often proves the occasion of the rising up and breaking out of that corruption which witnesses to men's faces that they are unclean. 3. In a scall-head. And in this commonly the judgment turned upon a very small matter. If the hair in the scall was black, it was a sign of soundness; if yellow, it was an indication of a leprosy, Lev 13:30-37. The other rules in these cases are the same with those mentioned before. In reading of these several sorts of ailments, it will be good for us, 1. To lament the calamitous state of human life, which lies exposed to so many grievances. What troops of diseases are we beset with on every side! and they all entered by sin. 2. To give thanks to God if he has never afflicted us with any of these sores: if the constitution is healthful, and the body lively and easy, we are bound to glorify God with our bodies.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 18–37. Public domain.
Copy as
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
Copy as

Continue studying Leviticus 13:32 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.

Read & Compare

Commentaries

Original Language & Research

Sermons, Hymns & Audio

TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.