Big Idea: Impurities that separate people from God can be cleansed.

Understanding the Text

Leviticus 13–14 is in a larger unit dealing with ceremonial uncleanness generally (Lev. 11–15). Leviticus 13 identifies the problem of a skin condition (loosely termed “leprosy” in English) and similar-looking molds that produce ceremonial impurity. For persons struck with this condition, the consequences are serious, involving separation from God’s sanctuary and separation from the people of God.

Leviticus 14 envisions a possible remedy or resolution to the uncleanness caused by “leprosy.” If God graciously cures the person, there is a ritual by which the healing can be recognized and the person returned to the community and sanctuary. It also deals with cleansing from fungal “leprosy” on houses.…