### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gârâb**, represented by `{{H1618}}`, is a term for a skin affliction, defined as **scurf (from itching); scab, scurvy**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The word derives from an unused root meaning to scratch, emphasizing its connection to irritating and visible skin diseases.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H1618}}` appears in contexts of religious law and divine judgment. In Leviticus, it is listed as a defect that renders a person or animal unfit for sacred purposes. A descendant of Aaron who is "scurvy" is disqualified from approaching to offer the bread of his God [[Leviticus 21:20]]. Similarly, an animal that is "scurvy" is deemed unacceptable as an offering by fire to the LORD [[Leviticus 22:22]]. In Deuteronomy, the word is used to describe a curse for disobedience, where the LORD will smite the people with "the scab," an ailment from which they cannot be healed [[Deuteronomy 28:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of skin diseases and blemishes:
* `{{H3217}}` **yallepheth** (scabbed): This term appears directly alongside `{{H1618}}` in both Levitical laws, reinforcing the theme of disqualifying skin conditions. It describes a blemish that makes a priest unfit for service [[Leviticus 21:20]] and an animal unfit for sacrifice [[Leviticus 22:22]].
* `{{H2775}}` **chereç** (itch): Listed as part of the same divine curse in Deuteronomy, this word is paired with `{{H1618}}` to describe the incurable afflictions God will send for disobedience [[Deuteronomy 28:27]].
* `{{H7822}}` **shᵉchîyn** (boil, botch): This word for a severe skin inflammation is also included in the list of curses in Deuteronomy, described as "the botch of Egypt" that will afflict the disobedient along with the scab `{{H1618}}` and the itch `{{H2775}}`.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1618}}` is tied to concepts of purity, holiness, and divine consequence.
* **Symbol of Ritual Unfitness:** The presence of `gârâb` signifies a state of physical imperfection that makes one unsuitable for participation in holy services. This applies to both the priests serving at the altar [[Leviticus 21:20]] and the animals being presented there [[Leviticus 22:22]].
* **A Curse for Disobedience:** The word is used as an instrument of God's judgment. In the covenant curses, `gârâb` represents a tangible and inescapable punishment for turning away from the LORD's commandments [[Deuteronomy 28:27]].
* **Association with Defilement:** `gârâb` is consistently grouped with other physical ailments and blemishes, highlighting a state of uncleanness that separates one from the state of wholeness required for proximity to God's holiness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1618}}` is a specific term for a skin disease that, while rare in scripture, carries significant meaning. It functions as a clear marker of imperfection, rendering a priest or a sacrifice unacceptable before God. Furthermore, it serves as a stark depiction of divine judgment, representing a physical and incurable curse for covenant unfaithfulness. The use of `gârâb` underscores the Old Testament connection between physical wholeness, ritual purity, and the consequences of obedience or disobedience.
TRV