Leviticus 13:7

KJV

But if the scab spread much abroad in the skin, after that he hath been seen of the priest for his cleansing, he shall be seen of the priest again:

KJV (with Strong's)

But if the scab {H4556} spread much {H6581} abroad {H6581} in the skin {H5785}, after {H310} that he hath been seen {H7200} of the priest {H3548} for his cleansing {H2893}, he shall be seen {H7200} of the priest {H3548} again {H8145}:

Complete Jewish Bible

But if the scab spreads further on the skin after he has been examined by the cohen and declared clean, he is to let himself be examined yet again by the cohen.

Berean Standard Bible

But if the rash spreads further on his skin after he has shown himself to the priest for his cleansing, he must present himself again to the priest.

American Standard Version

But if the scab spread abroad in the skin, after that he hath showed himself to the priest for his cleansing, he shall show himself to the priest again:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 13:7 is a crucial verse within the Mosaic Law's detailed regulations concerning *tzara'at*, a severe and often defiling skin condition. This passage emphasizes the absolute necessity for a re-evaluation by the priest when a suspicious skin affliction, previously examined and perhaps deemed potentially clean or under observation, clearly worsens or spreads. It underscores God's meticulous concern for the ritual purity and physical well-being of the Israelite community, mandating a rigorous process of re-inspection to ensure the proper management of defiling conditions and the preservation of the camp's holiness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 13 is entirely dedicated to the elaborate procedures for diagnosing and managing *tzara'at* in individuals, garments, and houses. The preceding verses ([Leviticus 13:1-6](/leviticus/13-1-6 "Leviticus 13:1-6 - Initial Inspection of Tzara'at")) describe the initial inspection by the priest, the criteria for a suspected case, and the mandatory seven-day quarantine period. If, after this period, the "plague" or "scab" had not spread and its appearance had not worsened, the individual might be declared clean, though sometimes with a second seven-day quarantine if ambiguity remained ([Leviticus 13:4-6](/leviticus/13-4-6 "Leviticus 13:4-6 - Provisional Cleansing and Re-examination")). Leviticus 13:7 specifically addresses the scenario where, even after an initial examination for potential cleansing, the condition *does* spread significantly, necessitating a further, immediate priestly re-evaluation. This verse is an integral part of a larger legal framework ([Leviticus 13-14](/leviticus/13-14 "Leviticus 13-14 - Laws of Tzara'at and Cleansing")) that meticulously outlines the steps for identifying, isolating, and ultimately restoring or permanently separating individuals affected by this condition, culminating in the elaborate cleansing rituals described in [Leviticus 14](/leviticus/14 "Leviticus 14 - Cleansing Rituals for Tzara'at").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the priest served not only as a religious leader but also as the primary arbiter of ritual purity and, by extension, a guardian of public health. The term *tzara'at*, often translated as "leprosy" in English, likely encompassed a range of severe dermatological conditions, not exclusively modern Hansen's disease. These conditions were understood not merely as physical ailments but as potential sources of profound ritual impurity, rendering an individual "unclean" and requiring temporary separation from the community and the tabernacle. This separation was paramount for maintaining the holiness of the camp, where God's presence dwelled among His people. The priest's role, as mandated by divine law, was to discern the status of the *nega'* ("affliction" or "plague") and issue a verdict of clean or unclean, thereby regulating access to the holy space and ensuring the well-being of the covenant community. The meticulousness of these laws, including the provision for re-inspection in [Leviticus 13:7](/leviticus/13-7 "Leviticus 13:7 - Re-inspection of Spreading Tzara'at"), reflects God's profound concern for the physical and spiritual integrity of His people, protecting them from both literal contagion and ritual defilement.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. It highlights the theme of **Holiness and Purity**, emphasizing God's demand for a set-apart people and the strict measures required to maintain the sanctity of the camp in His presence. The meticulous diagnostic process underscores the theme of **Divine Order and Law**, demonstrating God's comprehensive provision for every aspect of Israelite life, including public health and ritual conduct. Furthermore, it reinforces the **Priestly Mediation** theme, showcasing the indispensable role of the priest as the divinely appointed intermediary responsible for discerning and declaring ritual status, thereby regulating the community's relationship with God. The dynamic nature of the "scab" and the need for re-inspection also subtly points to the **Insidious Nature of Defilement**, whether physical or spiritual, which requires constant vigilance and authoritative intervention. This concern for purity is echoed throughout the Old Testament, from the initial commands for separation in [Exodus 19:6](/exodus/19-6 "Exodus 19:6 - A Holy Nation") to the later prophetic calls for spiritual cleansing.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Scab (Hebrew, _miçpachath'_ H4556):** This term specifically refers to a "scruf (as spreading over the surface)" or "scab." In the context of *tzara'at*, it denotes the visible manifestation of the skin affliction that is being examined. Its usage here emphasizes the superficial, yet potentially serious, nature of the lesion that initiates the priestly inspection process. The word highlights the physical symptom that triggers the elaborate legal and ritual procedures.
* **Spread (Hebrew, _pâsâh'_ H6581):** A primitive root meaning "to spread" or "to enlarge." This verb vividly describes the aggressive and progressive nature of the skin condition. The KJV's "spread much abroad" intensifies this meaning, indicating a significant, undeniable expansion of the affected area. This spreading is the critical trigger for the mandatory re-evaluation, highlighting the dynamic and worsening aspect of the *tzara'at* that demands immediate and decisive attention.
* **Seen (Hebrew, _râʼâh'_ H7200):** A primitive root meaning "to see, literally or figuratively," encompassing "to look at," "to perceive," or "to discern." Its repetition in the verse, "he hath been seen... he shall be seen," powerfully underscores the priest's pivotal and authoritative role as the diagnostician and arbiter of purity. The act of "seeing" by the priest is not a casual glance but a thorough, discerning examination, crucial for making a definitive judgment on the individual's ritual status.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But if the scab spread much abroad in the skin":** This clause introduces the specific condition that necessitates further action. The spreading of the *miçpachath* (scab) is the critical indicator. It signifies that the initial assessment, which might have led to a temporary declaration of cleanness or a period of observation, is now invalidated by the worsening state of the physical manifestation. The phrase "in the skin" specifies the location of the affliction, emphasizing its visible and external nature, making it subject to priestly examination.
* **"after that he hath been seen of the priest for his cleansing":** This part establishes the timeline and context. It refers to an individual who has already undergone an initial priestly inspection, possibly even one that resulted in a temporary declaration of cleanness or a period of quarantine aimed at determining their status for "cleansing" (or purification, H2893 `ṭohŏrâh`). The implication is that despite a prior assessment and a potential hope for purification, the condition has now deteriorated, overriding any previous, more favorable outlook and requiring a fresh verdict.
* **"he shall be seen of the priest again":** This is the imperative command, a divine mandate. The worsening of the condition necessitates an immediate and compulsory re-inspection by the priest. This highlights the dynamic nature of *tzara'at* and the law's provision for adapting to changing circumstances. The priest's role is not a one-time event but an ongoing responsibility to ensure the purity and health of the community, reflecting the thoroughness and divine wisdom embedded in the Mosaic Law.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 13:7 employs several literary devices to convey its message effectively and reinforce the solemnity of the law. **Repetition** is prominent, particularly in the phrase "he hath been seen of the priest... he shall be seen of the priest again." This emphasizes the priest's indispensable and recurring role in the diagnostic process, highlighting the meticulousness of the divine law and the necessity for continuous oversight. The spreading "scab" functions as **Symbolism**, representing not just a physical ailment but a state of impurity that threatens the holiness of the community. Its progression symbolizes the insidious nature of defilement, whether physical or spiritual, which, if unchecked, can spread and corrupt. The verse also demonstrates **Legal Precision**, characteristic of the Mosaic Law, by specifying the exact condition (spreading of the scab) and the required action (re-inspection by the priest). This precision ensures clarity in application and leaves no room for ambiguity regarding the proper procedure for managing such a serious affliction within the covenant community, underscoring the divine authority behind these statutes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 13:7, while addressing ancient Israel's public health and ritual purity, carries profound theological implications that transcend its immediate context. It underscores God's meticulous concern for holiness, order, and the well-being of His people, reflecting His own perfect character. The spreading *tzara'at* serves as a powerful symbol for the insidious nature of sin and impurity, which, if left unaddressed, can proliferate and defile individuals and the entire community. The requirement for re-inspection by the priest emphasizes the need for ongoing discernment, vigilance against spiritual decay, and the authoritative role of spiritual leadership in identifying and addressing matters of defilement. This divine mandate reflects God's desire for a pure people, set apart for His holy presence, and serves as a timeless reminder that spiritual health requires continuous self-assessment and a willingness to confront sin decisively.

* [2 Corinthians 13:5](/2_corinthians/13-5 "2 Corinthians 13:5 - Examine Yourselves")
* [Hebrews 12:15](/hebrews/12-15 "Hebrews 12:15 - Root of Bitterness")
* [James 1:14-15](/james/1-14-15 "James 1:14-15 - The Progression of Sin")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulousness of Leviticus 13:7, demanding a re-evaluation when a physical condition worsens, offers a powerful spiritual parallel for our lives today. Just as a spreading skin condition required immediate priestly attention to prevent wider contamination, so too do unaddressed sins, negative habits, or spiritual compromises have the potential to "spread" and corrupt our hearts, minds, and relationships, ultimately impacting the wider body of Christ. This verse calls us to cultivate a posture of vigilant self-examination, regularly assessing our spiritual health and promptly seeking divine and wise counsel when we perceive areas of sin or spiritual lethargy beginning to take root or proliferate. It reminds us that spiritual growth is not a one-time event but an ongoing process requiring humility, honesty, and a willingness to confront our imperfections. Ignoring the "spreading scab" of sin leads to deeper entanglement, greater defilement, and increased distance from God. Therefore, we are encouraged to be proactive in repentance and seeking restoration, trusting in God's abounding grace and the wisdom of His appointed spiritual guides within the church.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "spreading scabs" (unaddressed sins, negative habits, or spiritual apathy) might be present in my life that require a fresh "priestly" (Godly) examination?**
* **How diligent am I in conducting regular spiritual self-examinations, and what triggers or indicators do I use to prompt such reflection?**
* **In what ways can I seek wise, godly counsel from trusted spiritual mentors or church leaders when I perceive spiritual issues worsening, rather than attempting to manage them in isolation?**

### FAQ

**What was the primary role of the priest in relation to *tzara'at*?**

Answer: The priest's primary role was not to cure the physical ailment but to act as a diagnostician and arbiter of ritual purity. According to God's law, the priest determined whether an individual was ritually clean or unclean due to *tzara'at*. This discernment was crucial for maintaining the holiness of the Israelite camp and regulating access to the tabernacle. The priest's verdict dictated whether an individual could remain within the community or needed to be isolated, as seen in passages like [Leviticus 13:45-46](/leviticus/13-45-46 "Leviticus 13:45-46 - Isolation of the Unclean").

**Why was re-inspection so important for a spreading condition?**

Answer: Re-inspection was vital because a spreading condition indicated a worsening, more severe case of *tzara'at*, which carried significant implications for ritual purity and public health. An initial diagnosis might have been inconclusive or temporary, but if the "scab" continued to spread, it confirmed the serious nature of the affliction, necessitating stricter measures of isolation and a definitive declaration of uncleanness. This meticulousness reflects God's profound concern for protecting the entire community from both physical contagion and ritual defilement, as highlighted throughout [Leviticus 13](/leviticus/13 "Leviticus 13 - Laws Concerning Tzara'at").

**Does this verse have any relevance for Christians today?**

Answer: While the specific laws regarding *tzara'at* are part of the Old Covenant and are not literally applied to Christians today, the underlying principles remain profoundly relevant. Leviticus 13:7 teaches us about God's meticulousness, the insidious nature of sin (which can "spread" if unchecked), and the importance of vigilance, discernment, and seeking wise counsel when spiritual issues arise. It serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual self-examination and the need to address sin decisively before it takes deeper root and impacts our lives and communities, echoing New Testament calls to holiness like [1 Peter 1:15-16](/1_peter/1-15-16 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 13:7, with its emphasis on the spreading "scab" and the priest's re-inspection, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. The physical *tzara'at* of the Old Testament, representing profound impurity and separation from the community and from God's presence, foreshadows the far more devastating reality of sin, which separates humanity from a holy God. Unlike the Levitical priest who could only diagnose and declare, never truly cleanse or cure, Jesus possesses the divine power to truly heal and purify. He demonstrated this authority by touching and cleansing lepers (e.g., [Matthew 8:2-3](/matthew/8-2-3 "Matthew 8:2-3 - Jesus Heals a Leper")), thereby demonstrating His power over both physical and spiritual defilement. As our High Priest, Jesus not only identifies the "spreading scab" of our sin with perfect knowledge, but also offers complete and permanent cleansing through His atoning sacrifice on the cross ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ Our High Priest")). He is the ultimate "re-inspector" who, with divine insight, discerns the deepest spiritual maladies and provides the definitive verdict of "clean" to all who come to Him in faith, bringing them into full communion with God and His holy community ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing by Christ's Blood")). Through Him, we are not merely declared clean, but made clean, transformed by His grace and Spirit.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 38:3

[There is] no soundness in my flesh because of thine anger; neither [is there any] rest in my bones because of my sin.

2 Timothy 2:16

But shun profane [and] vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

2 Timothy 2:17

And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;

Leviticus 13:27

And the priest shall look upon him the seventh day: [and] if it be spread much abroad in the skin, then the priest shall pronounce him unclean: it [is] the plague of leprosy.

Leviticus 13:35

But if the scall spread much in the skin after his cleansing;

Leviticus 13:36

Then the priest shall look on him: and, behold, if the scall be spread in the skin, the priest shall not seek for yellow hair; he [is] unclean.

Isaiah 1:5

Why should ye be stricken any more? ye will revolt more and more: the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint.