Leviticus 13:10
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;
Leviticus 13:10 · King James Version
Meaning
In this particular verse from the Book of Leviticus, the priest is instructed to examine a person who may have a skin disease. The text specifies that the priest must carefully observe the affected area to determine the nature of the condition. The description given refers to a rising on the skin that is white in color and has also turned the hair white. Additionally, if there is raw flesh present in the rising, it indicates a more serious condition. This detailed examination is crucial in order to accurately diagnose the individual's ailment and prescribe the appropriate treatment. By following these specific guidelines, the priest would be able to identify various skin diseases and take necessary actions to prevent the spread of infection within the community. This verse highlights the importance of thorough observation and assessment in detecting and addressing health issues, reflecting the meticulous approach taken in ancient times towards disease management and prevention.
Theological Overview
When looking at the theological interpretation of Leviticus 13:10, it is important to understand the context in which this verse is situated. This particular verse deals with the assessment of skin diseases by a priest in ancient Israel. The mention of the priest seeing the afflicted individual indicates the role of the priest as a mediator between the person and God in matters of health and ritual purity. The emphasis on the color white in the skin rising and hair turning white signifies impurity and the need for quarantine or further examination. The presence of quick raw flesh in the rising is a sign of a more severe condition that requires isolation to prevent the spread of disease. These detailed instructions provided in the verse serve as a practical guide for the ancient Israelites in maintaining both physical and spiritual cleanliness. Through a theological lens, the verse highlights the importance of proper diagnosis, treatment, and separation to prevent the spread of contagion and impurity within the community.
Leviticus 13:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
and the priest shall look; and, behold, if there be a white rising in the skin, and it have turned the hair white, and there be quick raw flesh in the rising,
World English Bible
and the priest shall examine him. Behold, if there is a white rising in the skin, and it has turned the hair white, and there is raw flesh in the rising,
Douay-Rheims
And he shall view him. And when there shall be a white colour in the skin, and it shall have changed the look of the hair, and the living flesh itself shall appear:
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the Priest shall see him: and if the swelling be white in ye skin, and haue made ye heare white, and there be rawe flesh in the swelling,