Leviticus 13:31
And if the priest look on the plague of the scall, and, behold, it be not in sight deeper than the skin, and that there is no black hair in it; then the priest shall shut up him that hath the plague of the scall seven days:
Leviticus 13:31 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the priests are instructed to carefully examine a skin condition known as scall. The appearance of the scall is crucial in determining its severity, as the priest is instructed to look for whether it is limited to the surface of the skin or if it has penetrated deeper. If the scall is found to be shallow and only on the surface, with no black hair present in it, the priest is to isolate the individual for a period of seven days. During this time, the priest will monitor the condition to ensure that it does not worsen or spread.
This practice of isolating individuals with skin conditions reflects the concern for preventing the spread of infectious diseases in ancient times. By carefully examining and monitoring skin conditions, the priests acted as early medical practitioners, working to protect the health and well-being of the community. The detailed instructions provided in this verse highlight the importance of thorough observation and assessment in diagnosing and managing skin ailments. Through this process, the priests played a vital role in promoting hygiene and preventing the transmission of contagious diseases among the people.
Theological Overview
This verse from Leviticus 13:31 outlines a specific protocol for the ancient priests to follow when assessing a skin disease known as scall. The theological interpretation of this verse suggests that the meticulous examination process conducted by the priest reflects the importance of thorough scrutiny and attention to detail when dealing with matters of purity and impurity. Additionally, the mention of the absence of black hair in the skin disease may symbolize the idea of darkness or impurity being expelled from the individual's body, once the priest has determined that the scall is not a deeper issue. The seven days of quarantine for the afflicted person could be seen as a period of purification and isolation, allowing time for observation and potential healing. Overall, this verse emphasizes the significance of discernment and proper treatment of physical ailments within the religious context of the Old Testament.
Leviticus 13:31 in other translations
American Standard Version
And if the priest look on the plague of the scall, and, behold, the appearance thereof be not deeper than the skin, and there be no black hair in it, then the priest shall shut up [him that hath] the plague of the scall seven days:
World English Bible
If the priest examines the plague of itching, and behold, its appearance isn’t deeper than the skin, and there is no black hair in it, then the priest shall isolate the person infected with itching seven days.
Douay-Rheims
But if he perceive the place of the spot is equal with the flesh that is near it, and the hair black: he shall shut him up seven days,
Geneva Bible (1599)
And if the Priest looke on the sore of the blacke spotte, and if it seeme not lower then the skinne, nor haue any blacke heare in it, then the Priest shall shut vp him, that hath the sore of the blacke spot, seuen dayes.