Definition: To teach when [it is] unclean, and when [it is] clean: this [is] the law of leprosy.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 14:57. It’s a really important part of understanding God’s rules for how we treat animals and even plants! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse is saying that God has a strict set of rules about how we handle different types of creatures. It's like saying there are certain categories of animals that are considered "tainted" or not fit for human use. Let’s unpack the parts: “To teach when [it is] unclean…” : This means God is forbidding us from treating a particular animal in a way that would make it unhealthy or unfit for our purposes – like eating it, using it for labor, or even just keeping it as a pet. It's about avoiding harm to the creature. “…and when [it is] clean…” : This means God has specific rules about how we treat another animal. It’s saying that if an animal is healthy and fit, we must handle it in a certain way – perhaps by keeping it safe, providing it with proper care, or even sacrificing it for religious reasons. “This [is] the law of leprosy.” : This is the crucial part! The word "leprosy" comes from Greek, meaning “to be diseased” or “to be afflicted.” God has established this law as a way to protect himself and his people from harm. It’s about preventing something that isn't healthy from spreading and causing trouble. So, what does this mean practically? Historically, this verse was often interpreted as meaning that animals were not meant for human use – specifically, they weren’t allowed to be eaten or used for labor. It highlights a fundamental division in the Old Testament about the relationship between humans and the natural world. Important Note: This is a complex passage with a lot of historical and symbolic weight. It's important to understand it within its original context, which involved practices like ritual slaughter and the idea of holiness associated with animals. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the historical significance of this verse? Discuss the different interpretations over time?