Definition: This shall be the law of the leper in the day of his cleansing: He shall be brought unto the priest:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Leviticus 14:2. It’s a really interesting and significant part of Jewish tradition, and it essentially means: “This is the law that the leper will follow when he is cleansed and being purified.” Here's a breakdown in simpler terms: Leviticus 14: This section of the Bible deals with what constitutes “clean” or “unclean” animals – specifically, livestock. It’s about how to handle animals that are sick or have a problem. 14:2: This is where we get to the specific rule. It says, "This shall be the law of the leper in the day of his cleansing:" What does “cleansing” mean? This is key! It refers to a period of purification and being free from disease. The leper was considered a sick person who needed to be removed from the community for a time. So, what does it mean in practice? It means that after the leper is cleansed (usually through ritual washing), they are brought before a priest. The priest will then oversee their care and ensure they don't contaminate the community with sickness or disease. They’re essentially being kept separate to prevent spreading any illness. In short, it’s a rule about isolating those who are afflicted with a condition that can cause harm. Important Note: This passage is often debated and interpreted differently over time. It's a complex idea rooted in ancient Jewish laws regarding hygiene and disease control. It's a reminder of the importance of maintaining purity and preventing the spread of illness within a community. --- Do you want me to explain any aspect of this verse further? For example, I could: Discuss its historical context Explain what “cleansing” actually involved in ancient times Relate it to other biblical stories about sickness