Leviticus 13:26
But if the priest look on it, and, behold, there be no white hair in the bright spot, and it be no lower than the other skin, but be somewhat dark; then the priest shall shut him up seven days:
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Detailed procedures for priests to diagnose skin diseases (צָרַעַת, tzaraat), often translated 'leprosy' but covering various conditions. Chapters 11-15 address ritual purity, teaching Israel to distinguish clean from unclean. These laws served multiple purposes: promoting health, teaching spiritual lessons about sin's defilement, and separating Israel from pagan practices. Archaeological evidence shows Canaanite worship involved practices Israel's laws explicitly prohibited. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. The tabernacle's design parallels ancient Near Eastern temple architecture, yet its portable nature and absence of divine images distinguished it from pagan temples.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's superior priesthood, prefigured in this verse, assure you of access to God and effective intercession?
- How can you use this verse to worship God more fully, obey Him more faithfully, or love others more sacrificially?
- How does this verse help you understand both God's justice and His mercy in salvation?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
But if the priest look on it, and, behold, there be no white hair in the bright spot, and it be no lower than the other skin, but be somewhat dark; then the priest shall shut him up seven days:
This verse falls within the section on Diagnosing Skin Diseases. Detailed procedures for priests to diagnose skin diseases (צָרַעַת, tzaraat), often translated 'leprosy' but covering various conditions.
The Aaronic priesthood mediated between God and Israel, offering sacrifices and maintaining the tabernacle. This prefigured Christ's superior priesthood after the order of Melchizedek.
The New Testament reveals that Christ's sacrifice accomplishes what the Levitical system could only symbolize—complete forgiveness and restoration of relationship with God.