Leviticus 13:24

Or if there be [any] flesh, in the skin whereof [there is] a hot burning, and the quick [flesh] that burneth have a white bright spot, somewhat reddish, or white;

Or if there be any flesh {H1320}, in the skin {H5785} whereof there is a hot {H784} burning {H4348}, and the quick {H4241} flesh that burneth {H4348} have a white {H3836} bright spot {H934}, somewhat reddish {H125}, or white {H3836};

"Or if someone has on his skin a burn caused by fire; and the inflamed flesh where it was burned has become a bright spot, reddish-white or white,

When there is a burn on someone’s skin and the raw area of the burn becomes reddish-white or white,

Or when the flesh hath in the skin thereof a burning by fire, and the quick flesh of the burning become a bright spot, reddish-white, or white;

Commentary

Leviticus 13:24 is part of a detailed section in the Book of Leviticus (chapters 13-14) that outlines the laws concerning various skin conditions, most notably tzara'at (often translated as "leprosy," but encompassing a broader range of severe skin ailments, not necessarily modern Hansen's disease). This particular verse specifies a condition that develops in the skin after a burn.

Context of the Verse

In ancient Israel, the priests served not only as spiritual leaders but also as public health officials. Their role included meticulously inspecting individuals for signs of contagious skin diseases. The primary goal was to maintain the ceremonial purity and health of the Israelite community, preventing the spread of uncleanness within the camp where God's presence dwelled. This verse describes a specific scenario: if a person had suffered a burn, and a suspicious mark — "a white bright spot, somewhat reddish, or white" — appeared on the healing flesh, it required priestly examination. This detailed instruction highlights the meticulousness of God's laws concerning holiness and purity within the covenant community.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Concern for Health and Purity: God's law provided comprehensive guidelines for public health, demonstrating His care for the physical well-being of His people alongside their spiritual state. These regulations were crucial for preventing epidemics in a densely populated camp.
  • The Priest's Role as Diagnostician: The verse underscores the significant responsibility of the priest to accurately discern between various skin conditions. This required careful observation and adherence to God's precise instructions.
  • Discernment and Distinction: The detailed descriptions of colors and appearances (e.g., "white bright spot, somewhat reddish, or white") emphasize the need for precise discernment. Not every skin anomaly was *tzara'at*; the priest had to distinguish between a common burn scar and a potentially contaminating disease.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "hot burning" refers to a burn wound, and "quick flesh" denotes the raw, living tissue underneath the scab or healing skin. The specific colorations mentioned – "white bright spot, somewhat reddish, or white" – were critical indicators for the priest. These terms in the Hebrew text are precise, emphasizing the visual cues necessary for accurate diagnosis. The overall term tzara'at itself in Hebrew is broader than just "leprosy" and includes various skin afflictions that rendered a person ceremonially unclean.

Practical Application

While we no longer live under the ceremonial laws of the Old Testament, the principles behind Leviticus 13:24 offer valuable insights:

  • God's Attention to Detail: This passage reminds us that God cares about every aspect of our lives, even seemingly mundane details like hygiene and health. His laws are designed for our good.
  • Spiritual Discernment: Just as the priest had to discern physical conditions, believers today are called to exercise spiritual discernment, distinguishing between truth and error, testing the spirits, and recognizing what is truly spiritually healthy or unhealthy.
  • Community Well-being: The laws highlight the importance of individual purity contributing to the health and well-being of the entire community. In a spiritual sense, our personal walk with God impacts the collective body of believers.
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Cross-References

  • Isaiah 3:24 (2 votes)

    And it shall come to pass, [that] instead of sweet smell there shall be stink; and instead of a girdle a rent; and instead of well set hair baldness; and instead of a stomacher a girding of sackcloth; [and] burning instead of beauty.