Bible Verse Commentary on Leviticus 13:56

Verse: "And if the priest look, and, behold, the plague be somewhat dark after the brightness of the skin, he shall suffer the man who hath the plague to be shut up seven days." (Leviticus 13:56)

Overview: Leviticus 13 deals primarily with the laws concerning leprosy and other skin diseases as it pertains to the Israelite community. This particular verse emphasizes the role of the priest as having the authority to declare a disease and determines the course of actions to be taken regarding the afflicted individual.

Meaning and Interpretation

The meaning of this verse can be understood through various perspectives based on public domain commentaries:

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry explains that the role of the priest in examining skin diseases is crucial as it safeguards the health of the community. The observation of symptoms, specifically their darker pigmentation, indicates a potential worsening of the condition, requiring further isolation. This exemplifies the need for thoroughness and diligence in maintaining purity within the camp.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes emphasizes the significance of the priest's assessment. If the afflicted area appears darker, it suggests a deeper issue that cannot be neglected. He highlights that the necessity for closing off the individual indicates the seriousness with which Israel was to treat skin diseases, which were often seen as symptomatic of sin or impurity.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke provides insights on the implications of the symptoms noted here. He posits that the darker appearance may signify the severity of the plague and acts as a divine warning to both the afflicted and the congregation. Thus, the seven days of isolation serve as both a health measure and a spiritual examination period for the individual.

Historical Context

This scripture falls within the larger scope of the Mosaic Law, which was intended to govern the moral, social, and health standards of the Israelite people. Understanding the socio-religious context is crucial for proper biblical exegesis.

Practical Applications

Leviticus 13:56 can be interpreted as a reminder of the importance of spiritual and physical health in a community. The process of obtaining a priest's opinion before taking action reflects the necessity of wisdom and guidance in our lives today.

Related Cross References

• Leviticus 13:2 - The initial discussion on what constitutes a plague.
• Numbers 5:2 - Regulations regarding clean and unclean areas.
• Matthew 8:2-3 - Jesus healing those with leprosy, showcasing compassion and authority.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Leviticus 13:56 serves as a pivotal scripture in understanding the ancient laws regarding health and community purity. Engaging in biblical study through various tools and resources allows one to explore these concepts further, uncovering layers of meaning that apply to both historical and modern contexts.

This exploration into the meaning of Bible verses like Leviticus 13:56 enriches one's understanding of Scripture, fostering deeper insights for Bible study groups and individuals seeking clarity in understanding difficult Bible passages.