### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **miçpachath**, represented by `{{H4556}}`, refers to a **scab** or a scruf. Derived from a root meaning to spread over a surface, it appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, exclusively within the context of priestly examinations of skin conditions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4556}}` is a technical term used in Levitical law to distinguish a benign skin issue from a more serious, contagious disease. A priest `{{H3548}}` would examine a plague `{{H5061}}` on the skin `{{H5785}}`. If the affliction did not spread `{{H6581}}`, it was determined to be "but a **scab**," and the person would be pronounced clean `{{H2891}}` after washing their clothes `{{H899}}` [[Leviticus 13:6]]. However, if this **scab** `{{H4556}}` was later seen `{{H7200}}` to spread `{{H6581}}` after the initial examination for his cleansing `{{H2893}}`, it required further inspection [[Leviticus 13:7]]. A spreading **scab** `{{H4556}}` was the definitive sign that the condition was not benign, leading the priest `{{H3548}}` to pronounce the person unclean `{{H2930}}`, as it was identified as leprosy `{{H6883}}` [[Leviticus 13:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential for understanding the diagnostic process involving a **scab**:
* `{{H6581}}` **pâsâh** (spread): This verb is the critical factor in the diagnosis. The determination of whether a condition is a harmless **scab** or leprosy depends entirely on if it spreads `{{H6581}}` across the skin [[Leviticus 13:7]].
* `{{H2891}}` **ṭâhêr** (to be pure... clean): This term represents the state of ritual purity. A person is pronounced clean `{{H2891}}` by the priest if their affliction is confirmed to be only a **scab** that does not spread [[Leviticus 13:6]].
* `{{H2930}}` **ṭâmêʼ** (to be foul... unclean): As the direct opposite of clean, this term signifies a state of ritual defilement. The priest pronounces a person unclean `{{H2930}}` if the **scab** spreads, confirming a case of leprosy [[Leviticus 13:8]].
* `{{H6883}}` **tsâraʻath** (leprosy): This is the serious disease that the priestly examination seeks to identify or rule out. A spreading **scab** is a conclusive indicator that the affliction is leprosy `{{H6883}}` [[Leviticus 13:8]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H4556}}` is centered on the Levitical purity laws and the maintenance of a holy community.
* **A Diagnostic Indicator:** The term functions as a precise legal and medical distinction. A **scab** is the initial, uncertain presentation, and its behavior—specifically whether it spreads `{{H6581}}`—determines the final, critical diagnosis [[Leviticus 13:8]].
* **The Boundary of Purity:** A **scab** `{{H4556}}` exists on the threshold between ritual cleanliness and uncleanness. A static scab leads to a pronouncement of clean `{{H2891}}`, while a spreading one crosses the line into being unclean `{{H2930}}`, signifying a condition that separates an individual from the community.
* **Priestly Authority:** The entire process highlights the role of the priest `{{H3548}}` as the arbiter of ritual purity. It is the priest who must look `{{H7200}}` and make the official pronouncement, underscoring his responsibility for the spiritual and physical well-being of the people [[Leviticus 13:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4556}}` **miçpachath** is more than a simple word for a scab; it is a crucial term within the framework of Israel's purity laws. While appearing only three times, its role is pivotal in the diagnostic process that separates a minor skin ailment from leprosy. It illustrates the meticulous attention to detail in Levitical law and the clear boundaries established between what is considered clean `{{H2891}}` and unclean `{{H2930}}`, with the priest `{{H3548}}` serving as the decisive authority.
TRV