### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bôhaq**, represented by `{{H933}}`, defines a **freckled spot** or **white scurf**. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. Its definition comes from an unused root that means "to be pale," highlighting its use as a specific term for a harmless skin condition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single instance of `{{H933}}` is found in [[Leviticus 13:39]], within the Levitical laws for diagnosing skin diseases. The verse describes a situation where a **priest** `{{H3548}}` must **look** `{{H7200}}` at **bright spots** `{{H934}}` on the **skin** `{{H5785}}` of a person's **flesh** `{{H1320}}`. If the spots are a **darkish** `{{H3544}}` **white** `{{H3836}}`, the condition is identified as a **freckled spot** `{{H933}}` that **groweth** `{{H6524}}` in the skin. This diagnosis leads to the person being declared **clean** `{{H2889}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the diagnostic process involving `{{H933}}`:
* `{{H934}}` **bôhereth** (bright spot): This word is used for a generic **bright spot** that requires priestly examination. In contrast, **bôhaq** is the specific term for a benign version of this spot.
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): The **priest** is the one authorized to examine the skin condition and make the official declaration, as seen in the procedure in [[Leviticus 13:39]].
* `{{H2889}}` **ṭâhôwr** (clean, pure): This is the crucial outcome of identifying a spot as a **bôhaq**. The declaration of being **clean** meant the person could remain within the community without quarantine.
* `{{H3544}}` **kêheh** (somewhat dark, darkish): This adjective is key to the diagnosis. The "darkish" quality of the white spot helps the priest distinguish the harmless **bôhaq** from a more serious ailment [[Leviticus 13:39]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H933}}` is rooted in the legal and ceremonial framework of ancient Israel.
* **Priestly Discernment:** The term is part of a detailed procedure requiring careful observation by a **priest** `{{H3548}}`. This emphasizes the importance of making precise distinctions in matters of ritual purity [[Leviticus 13:39]].
* **Defining Cleanliness:** The ability to identify a blemish as a **bôhaq** was critical. It provided the basis for a person to be declared **clean** `{{H2889}}`, preventing unnecessary isolation and confirming their standing in the community.
* **A Benign Condition:** The primary function of the word is to name a condition that is harmless. It stands in contrast to other skin issues like leprosy, which would render a person unclean [[Leviticus 13:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H933}}` is a highly specific term used exclusively within the legal context of Levitical purity laws. Though appearing only once, **bôhaq** plays a vital role in the diagnostic process outlined in [[Leviticus 13:39]]. Its existence demonstrates the meticulous detail of the law in distinguishing between a harmless physical imperfection and a condition that would render a person ceremonially unclean.
TRV