King James Version
What Does Leviticus 13:39 Mean?
“Then the priest shall look: and, behold, if the bright spots in the skin of their flesh be darkish white; it is a freckled spot that groweth in the skin; he is clean.”
Context
37
But if the scall be in his sight at a stay, and that there is black hair grown up therein; the scall is healed, he is clean: and the priest shall pronounce him clean.
38
If a man also or a woman have in the skin of their flesh bright spots, even white bright spots;
39
Then the priest shall look: and, behold, if the bright spots in the skin of their flesh be darkish white; it is a freckled spot that groweth in the skin; he is clean.
40
And the man whose hair is fallen off his head, he is bald; yet is he clean. hair: Heb. head is pilled
41
And he that hath his hair fallen off from the part of his head toward his face, he is forehead bald: yet is he clean.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(39) **Then the priest shall look.**—If the priest, upon examination, finds that these elevated spots are of a dull or palish white colour, then he is to pronounce the patient clean, that is, free of leprosy, since it is simply a white eruption or tetter, which lasts for a few months, causes no inconvenience, and by degrees disappears of itself. Hence it is called *bahack, *or “white scurf,” and not leprosy. This nameless disorder, which still prevails in the East, is to this day called by the Biblical name *bahack.*
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 13:39 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 13:39
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge