King James Version

What Does Leviticus 13:8 Mean?

Leviticus 13:8 in the King James Version says “And if the priest see that, behold, the scab spreadeth in the skin, then the priest shall pronounce him unclean: it is a...” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And if the priest see that, behold, the scab spreadeth in the skin, then the priest shall pronounce him unclean: it is a leprosy.”

Leviticus 13:8 · KJV

Context

6

And the priest shall look on him again the seventh day: and, behold, if the plague be somewhat dark, and the plague spread not in the skin, the priest shall pronounce him clean: it is but a scab: and he shall wash his clothes, and be clean.

7

But if the scab spread much abroad in the skin, after that he hath been seen of the priest for his cleansing, he shall be seen of the priest again:

8

And if the priest see that, behold, the scab spreadeth in the skin, then the priest shall pronounce him unclean: it is a leprosy.

9

When the plague of leprosy is in a man, then he shall be brought unto the priest;

10

And the priest shall see him: and, behold, if the rising be white in the skin, and it have turned the hair white, and there be quick raw flesh in the rising; quick: Heb. the quickening of living flesh

Read Leviticus 13 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And if the priest see that, behold, the scab spreadeth in the skin, then the priest shall pronounce him unclean: it is a leprosy.

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. Ritual purity laws taught Israel to distinguish between clean and unclean, holy and common, training them in discernment and reverence for God's presence.
The holiness demanded in Leviticus becomes possible through Christ, who both satisfies God's righteous requirements and transforms believers by His Spirit.

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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 texts like the Code of Hammurabi show that law codes were common in the ancient Near East, but biblical law uniquely grounded ethics in God's character rather than merely social convention.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Christ's superior priesthood, prefigured in this verse, assure you of access to God and effective intercession?
  2. How can you develop greater spiritual discernment in distinguishing what honors God from what defiles?
  3. What practical steps can you take this week to apply the principles taught in this verse?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
וְרָאָה֙1 of 10

“see”

H7200

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

הַכֹּהֵ֖ן2 of 10

“And if the priest”

H3548

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

וְהִנֵּ֛ה3 of 10
H2009

lo!

פָּֽשְׂתָ֥ה4 of 10

“spreadeth”

H6581

to spread

הַמִּסְפַּ֖חַת5 of 10

“that behold the scab”

H4556

scruf (as spreading over the surface)

בָּע֑וֹר6 of 10

“in the skin”

H5785

skin (as naked); by implication, hide, leather

וְטִמְּא֥וֹ7 of 10

“shall pronounce him unclean”

H2930

to be foul, especially in a ceremial or moral sense (contaminated)

הַכֹּהֵ֖ן8 of 10

“And if the priest”

H3548

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

צָרַ֥עַת9 of 10

“it is a leprosy”

H6883

leprosy

הִֽוא׃10 of 10
H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

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 13:8 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 13:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Acts 8:21Matthew 15:7-8Philippians 3:18-192 Peter 2:19Leviticus 13:3

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