Topical Bible: Leprosy: Houses: Suspected of, But not Infected, Pronounced Clean

◄ Leprosy: Houses: Suspected of, But not Infected, Pronounced Clean ►

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In the biblical context, leprosy is not limited to a disease affecting humans but also extends to inanimate objects, including houses. The laws concerning leprosy in houses are detailed in the book of Leviticus, specifically in Leviticus 14. These laws were given to the Israelites to maintain purity and holiness within the community, as well as to prevent the spread of disease and contamination.

Biblical Procedure for Suspected Leprosy in Houses

When a house was suspected of having leprosy, the owner was required to report it to the priest. The priest would then conduct an inspection to determine the presence of the disease. Leviticus 14:35-36 states: "The owner of the house shall come and tell the priest, ‘Something like mildew has appeared in my house.’ The priest must order that the house be cleared before he enters it to examine the mildew, so that nothing in the house will become unclean. After this, the priest shall go in to inspect the house."

If the priest found greenish or reddish depressions on the walls, the house was to be closed up for seven days. After this period, the priest would return to inspect the house again. If the mildew had spread, further action was required, but if it had not, the house could be pronounced clean.

Pronouncement of Cleanliness

If, upon reinspection, the mildew had not spread, the priest would declare the house clean. Leviticus 14:48 provides the procedure: "But if the priest comes to examine it and the mildew has not spread after the house has been plastered, he shall pronounce the house clean, because the mildew is gone."

The pronouncement of cleanliness involved a ceremonial cleansing process, which included the use of two birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop. One bird was sacrificed over fresh water in a clay pot, and the living bird, along with the cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop, was dipped into the blood of the sacrificed bird. The house was then sprinkled seven times, and the living bird was released into the open fields (Leviticus 14:49-53).

Spiritual and Symbolic Significance

The laws concerning leprosy in houses highlight the importance of holiness and purity in the life of the Israelites. The meticulous procedures underscore the need for vigilance against impurity and the community's responsibility to maintain a clean and holy environment. The ceremonial cleansing with blood and water symbolizes purification and the removal of sin, pointing to the greater spiritual truths fulfilled in the New Testament through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

These laws also reflect the broader biblical theme of God's concern for the physical and spiritual well-being of His people. By adhering to these regulations, the Israelites demonstrated obedience to God's commandments and trust in His provision for their health and safety.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Leviticus 14:48
And if the priest shall come in, and look on it, and, behold, the plague has not spread in the house, after the house was plastered: then the priest shall pronounce the house clean, because the plague is healed.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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