Definition: And if it appear still in the garment, either in the warp, or in the woof, or in any thing of skin; it [is] a spreading [plague]: thou shalt burn that wherein the plague [is] with fire.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 13:57. It's a pretty serious and important passage about cleanliness and protection. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a plague (a sickness or problem) that will befall someone who has contact with an unclean animal – specifically, a goat – if it’s not completely clean. It’s a direct instruction to take drastic action to protect the people of Israel. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And if it appear still in the garment, either in the warp, or in the woof, or in any thing of skin…” This means if an unclean animal – like a goat – is still visible in someone’s clothing (the "garment" part), even if it's just a small bit, it’s a problem. It could be dirt, feathers, or anything else that isn't perfectly clean. “…it [is] a spreading [plague]: thou shalt burn that wherein the plague [is] with fire.” This is the crucial part. If an unclean animal is visible, you must immediately burn it . The word "plague" means a sickness or problem. Burning the animal with fire is a way to stop the spread of this sickness and prevent it from continuing. What's happening? The verse warns that if an unclean animal remains visible, it’s going to cause a spreading plague . This plague isn't just about discomfort; it’s a serious illness that needs to be stopped quickly. Why is this important in the Old Testament? This story is part of a larger tradition about cleanliness and holiness in the Jewish people. It emphasizes the importance of being separate from impurity and maintaining a pure state, which was vitally important for religious practices and the protection of God’s people. It highlights that even seemingly small things can be dangerous if not treated properly. In short: This verse is a direct command to immediately and thoroughly burn an unclean animal to stop the spread of a sickness, reflecting the importance of cleanliness and holiness in Jewish tradition. --- Do you want me to: Explain it further with examples? Discuss its significance within the context of Jewish law or history?