Leviticus 13:2 Meaning and Explanation
“When a man shall have in the skin of his flesh a rising, a scab, or bright spot, and it be in the skin of his flesh like the plague of leprosy; then he shall be brought unto Aaron the priest, or unto one of his sons the priests:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Any person with suspected skin lesions must be brought to a priest for examination.
The Context of Leviticus 13:2
Instructions on what skin conditions require priestly examination.
What Does Leviticus 13:2 Mean?
Three observable conditions on the skin prompt examination: a rising (swelling), a scab (crusted injury), or a bright spot (discoloration). Each represents a visible change to the skin's surface. The text emphasizes that the person himself does not determine whether he has leprosy—others bring him to the priest for professional assessment.
The priest's role is to examine and diagnose. Any of Aaron's sons (the priestly line) may perform this examination, showing that priestly authority over such matters is shared across the priesthood rather than concentrated in one person. The phrase 'like the plague of leprosy' indicates these are suspicious signs, but not definitive proof yet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 13:2
What does Leviticus 13:2 mean?
Any person with suspected skin lesions must be brought to a priest for examination.
What is the context of Leviticus 13:2?
Instructions on what skin conditions require priestly examination.