### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bôhereth**, represented by `{{H934}}`, is defined as a **bright spot**, specifically a whitish spot on the skin. It appears 13 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the context of Levitical law. This term is a key element in the diagnosis of skin diseases to determine ritual purity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H934}}` is used solely within the procedural laws of Leviticus concerning skin afflictions. It is one of three initial signs, along with a "rising" `{{H7613}}` and a "scab" `{{H5597}}`, that would require a man to be brought before a priest for examination [[Leviticus 13:2]]. The diagnosis depended on the specific characteristics of the **bright spot**. For example, if a **bright spot** was white but not deeper than the skin and the hair within it had not turned white, the priest would isolate the individual for seven days [[Leviticus 13:4]]. However, if the spot caused hair to turn white and appeared deeper than the skin, it was declared to be leprosy [[Leviticus 13:25]]. A **bright spot** that remained in its place and did not spread could be deemed a clean "burning boil" [[Leviticus 13:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the diagnostic process surrounding `bôhereth`:
* `{{H7613}}` **sᵉʼêth** (an elevation or leprous scab): This term is often listed alongside `bôhereth` as a potential sign of a skin plague requiring priestly examination ([[Leviticus 13:2]], [[Leviticus 14:56]]).
* `{{H5597}}` **çappachath** (scab): This word is also used in tandem with `bôhereth` and `sᵉʼêth` to describe the types of skin conditions to be investigated for leprosy [[Leviticus 13:2]].
* `{{H3836}}` **lâbân** (white): This word is crucial for describing the **bright spot**. A **white** `{{H3836}}` **bright spot** `{{H934}}` is a primary indicator for a priest to begin an investigation [[Leviticus 13:4]].
* `{{H4348}}` **mikvâh** (a burn): A **bright spot** could arise from a previous injury, such as a **burn** `{{H4348}}`, which was a factor in the priest's diagnosis [[Leviticus 13:24]].
* `{{H933}}` **bôhaq** (freckled spot): This term provides a key distinction for a clean diagnosis. If the bright spots are a "darkish white," they are considered a harmless **freckled spot** `{{H933}}`, not leprosy [[Leviticus 13:39]].
### Theological Significance
The clinical focus on `{{H934}}` carries significant weight within Israel's covenant life, highlighting principles of purity and priestly authority.
* **Marker for Ritual Purity:** The appearance of a **bright spot** was not merely a medical concern but a matter of ritual status. Its characteristics determined whether a person was clean or unclean, affecting their ability to participate in community life [[Leviticus 13:25]].
* **Importance of Discernment:** The law required careful distinction between a leprous **bright spot** `{{H934}}` and a benign **freckled spot** `{{H933}}` [[Leviticus 13:39]]. This underscores the need for careful judgment and adherence to divine instruction rather than superficial observation.
* **Priestly Authority:** The entire process of examining a **bright spot** centers on the authority of the priest. The priest alone interprets the signs and makes the final declaration, acting as the arbiter of holiness and health within the community [[Leviticus 13:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H934}}` **bôhereth** is a highly specific term used within the Levitical purity laws to denote a **bright spot** on the skin. While its meaning is narrow, its role is significant, serving as a primary indicator for a potential case of leprosy that demanded priestly examination. The regulations surrounding the **bright spot** illustrate the meticulous detail of the Law in distinguishing between the clean and the unclean, thereby safeguarding the holiness of the covenant community. It shows how a physical blemish could have profound social and religious implications.
TRV