Leviticus 14:36

Then the priest shall command that they empty the house, before the priest go [into it] to see the plague, that all that [is] in the house be not made unclean: and afterward the priest shall go in to see the house:

Then the priest {H3548} shall command {H6680} that they empty {H6437} the house {H1004}, before the priest {H3548} go {H935} into it to see {H7200} the plague {H5061}, that all that is in the house {H1004} be not made unclean {H2930}: and afterward {H310} the priest {H3548} shall go {H935} in to see {H7200} the house {H1004}:

The cohen is to order the house emptied before he goes in to inspect the infection, so that everything in the house won't be made unclean; afterwards, the cohen is to enter and inspect the house.

The priest must order that the house be cleared before he enters it to examine the mildew, so that nothing in the house will become unclean. After this, the priest shall go in to inspect the house.

And the priest shall command that they empty the house, before the priest goeth in to see the plague, that all that is in the house be not made unclean: and afterward the priest shall go in to see the house:

Commentary

Leviticus 14:36 details a specific procedural instruction within the Mosaic Law concerning the inspection of a house suspected of having a 'plague' โ€“ often understood as a spreading mold or mildew. This verse emphasizes preventive measures to maintain ceremonial purity by commanding the emptying of the house *before* the priest enters to make a diagnosis.

Context

This verse is part of a detailed section in Leviticus chapters 13 and 14 that addresses laws related to ritual purity and defilement, particularly concerning skin diseases and, as here, infestations in houses. The purpose of these meticulous regulations was to preserve the holiness of the Israelite camp and nation, reflecting God's own holy character. Before the priest could even enter to diagnose the potential 'plague of leprosy' in a house, a critical command was issued: to empty the entire dwelling to prevent everything inside from becoming ceremonially unclean.

Key Themes

  • Prevention of Defilement: The core instruction is to prevent the spread of ceremonial uncleanness. By emptying the house *before* inspection, everything inside (furniture, utensils, etc.) avoids becoming tame (unclean) if the priest declares the house defiled. This highlights God's concern for practical wisdom and minimizing loss for the homeowner.
  • Priestly Authority: The priest holds the authority to command, inspect, and declare, emphasizing their role as mediators of God's law and guardians of Israel's purity.
  • Holiness and Purity: The entire process underscores the Israelites' call to maintain a high standard of ceremonial purity, reflecting the holiness of God Himself, who dwelt among them. Defilement was not merely physical but also spiritual, hindering one's full participation in the community and worship.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV term "plague" translates the Hebrew word nega` (ื ึถื’ึทืข), which broadly means a 'stroke,' 'mark,' or 'affliction.' In the context of houses (and garments), it specifically refers to a spreading fungal growth, mold, or mildew, rather than human leprosy (though the same term is used for skin afflictions). The phrase "made unclean" comes from the Hebrew tame` (ื˜ึธืžึตื), signifying a state of ceremonial impurity that renders a person or object unfit for sacred use or presence in the tabernacle until purification rites are performed. This immediate emptying was a pragmatic step to limit the scope of ritual impurity and the subsequent need for extensive cleansing procedures.

Practical Application

While these specific laws are part of the Old Covenant's ceremonial code and do not apply literally to Christians today, the underlying principles offer valuable lessons:

  • Spiritual Vigilance: This verse teaches us about the importance of being proactive in addressing potential sources of 'spiritual defilement' in our lives or communities. Just as the Israelites were careful to prevent physical impurity from spreading, believers are called to be vigilant against sin and corrupting influences that can compromise spiritual purity.
  • Wisdom and Prevention: God's meticulous care for His people included practical wisdom to minimize loss and hardship. Similarly, we are encouraged to exercise wisdom and foresight in our daily lives, taking steps to prevent harm or negative consequences.
  • Authority and Order: The priest's command highlights the importance of respecting God-given authority and following divine order for the well-being of the community.

This passage reminds us that God is concerned not only with our spiritual state but also with order, cleanliness, and the practical aspects of our lives, all of which contribute to a healthy environment for His presence.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 15:33 (2 votes)

    Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.

  • Hebrews 12:15 (2 votes)

    Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble [you], and thereby many be defiled;

  • Revelation 18:4 (2 votes)

    And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.

  • 2 Timothy 2:17 (2 votes)

    And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;

  • 2 Timothy 2:18 (2 votes)

    Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.