King James Version

What Does Leviticus 13:19 Mean?

Leviticus 13:19 in the King James Version says “And in the place of the boil there be a white rising, or a bright spot, white, and somewhat reddish, and it be shewed to...” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And in the place of the boil there be a white rising, or a bright spot, white, and somewhat reddish, and it be shewed to the priest;”

Leviticus 13:19 · KJV

Context

17

And the priest shall see him: and, behold, if the plague be turned into white; then the priest shall pronounce him clean that hath the plague: he is clean.

18

The flesh also, in which, even in the skin thereof, was a boil, and is healed,

19

And in the place of the boil there be a white rising, or a bright spot, white, and somewhat reddish, and it be shewed to the priest;

20

And if, when the priest seeth it, behold, it be in sight lower than the skin, and the hair thereof be turned white; the priest shall pronounce him unclean: it is a plague of leprosy broken out of the boil.

21

But if the priest look on it, and, behold, there be no white hairs therein, and if it be not lower than the skin, but be somewhat dark; then the priest shall shut him up seven days:

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And in the place of the boil there be a white rising, or a bright spot, white, and somewhat reddish, and it be shewed to the priest;

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.

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Historical & Cultural 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. Ancient sacrificial texts from cultures surrounding Israel demonstrate the widespread practice of animal sacrifice, but Israel's system uniquely emphasized moral atonement over magical efficacy.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what ways does this verse deepen your appreciation for Christ's atoning sacrifice and the seriousness of sin?
  2. How does Christ's superior priesthood, prefigured in this verse, assure you of access to God and effective intercession?
  3. In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 12 words
וְהָיָ֞ה1 of 12
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

בִּמְק֤וֹם2 of 12

“And in the place”

H4725

properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)

הַשְּׁחִין֙3 of 12

“of the boil”

H7822

inflammation, i.e., an ulcer

שְׂאֵ֣ת4 of 12

“rising”

H7613

an elevation or leprous scab; figuratively, elation or cheerfulness; exaltation in rank or character

לְבָנָ֣ה5 of 12

“there be a white”

H3836

white

א֥וֹ6 of 12
H176

desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if

בַהֶ֖רֶת7 of 12

“or a bright spot”

H934

a whitish spot on the skin

לְבָנָ֣ה8 of 12

“there be a white”

H3836

white

אֲדַמְדָּ֑מֶת9 of 12

“and somewhat reddish”

H125

reddish

וְנִרְאָ֖ה10 of 12

“and it be shewed”

H7200

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

אֶל11 of 12
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

הַכֹּהֵֽן׃12 of 12

“to the priest”

H3548

literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Leviticus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Leviticus 13:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Leviticus 13:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Leviticus 13:24

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