King James Version
What Does Leviticus 13:22 Mean?
“And if it spread much abroad in the skin, then the priest shall pronounce him unclean: it is a plague.”
Context
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:
22
And if it spread much abroad in the skin, then the priest shall pronounce him unclean: it is a plague.
23
But if the bright spot stay in his place, and spread not, it is a burning boil; and the priest shall pronounce him clean.
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; a hot: Heb. a burning of fire
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(22) **And if it spread much abroad.**—If, on inspecting it again at the end of the seven days’ seclusion, the priest finds that the spot has spread, it was evident that the blood was vitiated, and that the distemper began to develop in the body.
**It is a plague.**—That is, of leprosy. The word “leprosy,” which has here dropped out of the text, is still preserved in some of the ancient versions.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 13:22 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.