New International VersionBut if he has a reddish-white sore on his bald head or forehead, it is a defiling disease breaking out on his head or forehead.
New Living TranslationHowever, if a reddish white sore appears on the bald area on top of his head or on his forehead, this is a skin disease.
English Standard VersionBut if there is on the bald head or the bald forehead a reddish-white diseased area, it is a leprous disease breaking out on his bald head or his bald forehead.
Berean Standard BibleBut if there is a reddish-white sore on the bald head or forehead, it is an infectious disease breaking out on it.
King James BibleAnd if there be in the bald head, or bald forehead, a white reddish sore; it is a leprosy sprung up in his bald head, or his bald forehead.
New King James VersionAnd if there is on the bald head or bald forehead a reddish-white sore, it is leprosy breaking out on his bald head or his bald forehead.
New American Standard BibleBut if on the bald head or the bald forehead there occurs a reddish-white infection, it is leprosy breaking out on his bald head or on his bald forehead.
NASB 1995“But if on the bald head or the bald forehead, there occurs a reddish-white infection, it is leprosy breaking out on his bald head or on his bald forehead.
NASB 1977“But if on the bald head or the bald forehead, there occurs a reddish-white infection, it is leprosy breaking out on his bald head or on his bald forehead.
Legacy Standard BibleBut if on the bald head or the bald forehead, there occurs a reddish-white infection, it is leprosy breaking out on his bald head or on his bald forehead.
Amplified BibleBut if there is a reddish-white infection on the bald head or forehead, it is leprosy breaking out on his bald head or forehead.
Christian Standard BibleBut if there is a reddish-white condition on the bald head or forehead, it is a serious skin disease breaking out on his head or forehead.
Holman Christian Standard BibleBut if there is a reddish-white infection on the bald head or forehead, it is a skin disease breaking out on his head or forehead.
American Standard VersionBut if there be in the bald head, or the bald forehead, a reddish-white plague; it is leprosy breaking out in his bald head, or his bald forehead.
English Revised VersionBut if there be in the bald head, or the bald forehead, a reddish-white plague; it is leprosy breaking out in his bald head, or his bald forehead.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationBut if there is a pink patch on the bald places in back or in front, a skin disease is developing in those places.
Good News TranslationBut if a reddish-white sore appears on the bald spot, it is a dreaded skin disease.
International Standard VersionBut when in the baldness of his head or his forehead there develops a skin rash that's white or reddish, it's an infectious skin disease that has spread to his bald head or forehead.
NET BibleBut if there is a reddish white infection in the back or front bald area, it is a disease breaking out in his back or front bald area.
New Heart English BibleBut if there is on the bald head, or the bald forehead, a reddish-white plague; it is leprosy breaking out in his bald head, or his bald forehead.
Webster's Bible TranslationAnd if there is in the bald head, or bald forehead, a white reddish sore; it is a leprosy sprung up on his bald head, or his bald forehead. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleBut if there is a reddish-white sore on the bald head or forehead, it is an infectious disease breaking out on it.
World English BibleBut if a reddish-white plague is in the bald head or the bald forehead, it is leprosy breaking out in his bald head or his bald forehead. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd when there is in the bald back of the head, or in the bald forehead, a reddish-white plague, it [is] a leprosy breaking out in the bald back of the head, or in the bald forehead;
Young's Literal Translation And when there is in the bald back of the head, or in the bald forehead, a very red white plague, it is a leprosy breaking out in the bald back of the head, or in the bald forehead;
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd when there shall be in his baldness behind, or in his baldness in front, a stroke, reddish white, it is a leprosy broken out in his baldness behind, or in his baldness in front. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleBut if in the bald head or in the bald forehead there be risen a white or reddish colour,
Catholic Public Domain VersionBut if in the bald head or bald forehead there has arisen a white or reddish color,
New American BibleBut when there is a reddish white infection on his bald crown or bald forehead, it is a scaly infection that is breaking out there.
New Revised Standard VersionBut if there is on the bald head or the bald forehead a reddish-white diseased spot, it is a leprous disease breaking out on his bald head or his bald forehead. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd if there is on his bald head or bald forehead a white or reddish sore, it is leprosy breaking out on his bald head or his bald forehead.
Peshitta Holy Bible TranslatedAnd if there will be a sore of white or of blood red in his baldness or in his forehead baldness, it is leprosy growing in his baldness or in his forehead baldness. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917But if there be in the bald head, or the bald forehead, a reddish-white plague, it is leprosy breaking out in his bald head, or his bald forehead.
Brenton Septuagint TranslationAnd if there should be in his baldness of head, or his baldness of forehead, a white or fiery plague, it is leprosy in his baldness of head, or baldness of forehead.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Laws about Skin Diseases… 41Or if his hairline recedes and he is bald on his forehead, he is still clean. 42But ifthere isa reddish-whitesoreon the bald headorforehead,itis an infectious diseasebreaking outon it.43The priest is to examine him, and if the swelling of the infection on his bald head or forehead is reddish-white like a skin disease,…
Cross References Deuteronomy 24:8In cases of infectious skin diseases, be careful to diligently follow everything the Levitical priests instruct you. Be careful to do as I have commanded them.
Numbers 12:10-15As the cloud lifted from above the Tent, suddenly Miriam became leprous, white as snow. Aaron turned toward her, saw that she was leprous, / and said to Moses, “My lord, please do not hold against us this sin we have so foolishly committed. / Please do not let her be like a stillborn infant whose flesh is half consumed when he comes out of his mother’s womb.” ...
2 Kings 5:1-14Now Naaman, the commander of the army of the king of Aram, was a great man in his master’s sight and highly regarded, for through him the LORD had given victory to Aram. And he was a mighty man of valor, but he was a leper. / At this time the Arameans had gone out in bands and had taken a young girl from the land of Israel, and she was serving Naaman’s wife. / She said to her mistress, “If only my master would go to the prophet who is in Samaria, he would cure him of his leprosy.” ...
2 Chronicles 26:19-21Uzziah, with a censer in his hand to offer incense, was enraged. But while he raged against the priests in their presence in the house of the LORD before the altar of incense, leprosy broke out on his forehead. / When Azariah the chief priest and all the priests turned to him and saw his leprous forehead, they rushed him out. Indeed, he himself hurried to get out, because the LORD had afflicted him. / So King Uzziah was a leper until the day of his death. He lived in isolation, leprous and cut off from the house of the LORD, while his son Jotham had charge of the royal palace and governed the people of the land.
Isaiah 1:6From the sole of your foot to the top of your head, there is no soundness—only wounds and welts and festering sores neither cleansed nor bandaged nor soothed with oil.
Isaiah 53:4Surely He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows; yet we considered Him stricken, struck down by God, and afflicted.
Matthew 8:2-4Suddenly a leper came and knelt before Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.” / Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” He said. “Be clean!” And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. / Then Jesus instructed him, “See that you don’t tell anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift prescribed by Moses, as a testimony to them.”
Mark 1:40-45Then a leper came to Jesus, begging on his knees: “If You are willing, You can make me clean.” / Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” He said. “Be clean!” / And immediately the leprosy left him, and the man was cleansed. ...
Luke 5:12-16While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man came along who was covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus, he fell facedown and begged Him, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.” / Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” He said. “Be clean!” And immediately the leprosy left him. / “Do not tell anyone,” Jesus instructed him. “But go, show yourself to the priest and present the offering Moses prescribed for your cleansing, as a testimony to them.” ...
Luke 17:12-19As He entered one of the villages, He was met by ten lepers. They stood at a distance / and raised their voices, shouting, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” / When Jesus saw them, He said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they were on their way, they were cleansed. ...
Matthew 10:8Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.
Matthew 11:5The blind receive sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor.
Mark 14:3While Jesus was in Bethany reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke open the jar and poured it on Jesus’ head.
John 9:1-3Now as Jesus was passing by, He saw a man blind from birth, / and His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” / Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God would be displayed in him.
Acts 10:38how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, and how Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, because God was with Him.
Treasury of Scripture And if there be in the bald head, or bald forehead, a white reddish sore; it is a leprosy sprung up in his bald head, or his bald forehead. Jump to Previous BreakingBrokenBrowDiseaseDiseasedForeheadHairHeadInfectionInfectiousLeprosyOccursPlagueRedReddishReddish-WhiteSoreSpotSprungWhiteWhite-ReddishJump to Next BreakingBrokenBrowDiseaseDiseasedForeheadHairHeadInfectionInfectiousLeprosyOccursPlagueRedReddishReddish-WhiteSoreSpotSprungWhiteWhite-ReddishLeviticus 13 1.The laws whereby the priest is to be guided in discerning the leprosy.But if there is a reddish-white sore on the bald head or foreheadThis phrase describes a specific condition that the priests were to examine under the Levitical law. The mention of a "reddish-white sore" indicates a skin condition that was considered suspicious for leprosy, a term that in biblical times covered a range of skin diseases. The focus on the "bald head or forehead" highlights the visibility of the condition, as these areas are typically exposed and easily observed. In the ancient Near East, skin diseases were often feared due to their potential for contagion and the social stigma attached. The priests acted as public health officials, ensuring the community's safety by diagnosing and isolating those with infectious diseases. it is an infectious disease breaking out on it
The term "infectious disease" in this context refers to what was traditionally known as leprosy, though it likely included various skin conditions. The phrase "breaking out" suggests an active and spreading condition, which required immediate attention. In the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, maintaining ritual purity was crucial, and those with such diseases were considered unclean. This had significant social and religious implications, as the unclean were often isolated from the community to prevent the spread of disease and to maintain the sanctity of the camp. This passage underscores the importance of holiness and purity in the community, reflecting God's desire for His people to be set apart. The priestly role in diagnosing and managing these conditions also points to the broader theme of mediation between God and His people, a role ultimately fulfilled by Jesus Christ as the Great High Priest. Persons / Places / Events 1. MosesThe author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai. He was responsible for conveying God's laws to the Israelites. 2. AaronThe brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. He and his descendants were responsible for performing the priestly duties, including diagnosing skin diseases. 3. IsraelitesThe people to whom the laws in Leviticus were given. They were to follow these laws as part of their covenant relationship with God. 4. PriestsThe individuals tasked with examining and diagnosing skin diseases according to the laws given in Leviticus. 5. LeprosyA term used in the Bible to describe various skin diseases, not limited to what is known today as Hansen's disease. Teaching Points Holiness and PurityThe laws regarding skin diseases underscore the importance of holiness and purity in the community. God’s people are called to be set apart and to maintain both physical and spiritual cleanliness. Role of the PriesthoodThe priests served as mediators between God and the people, highlighting the need for spiritual leadership and guidance in matters of health and holiness. Community Health and SafetyThe regulations for skin diseases were not only spiritual but also practical, ensuring the health and safety of the community by preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Spiritual SymbolismSkin diseases in the Bible often symbolize sin and its corrupting influence. Just as physical diseases required examination and cleansing, so too does sin require confession and repentance. Compassion and RestorationWhile the laws required separation for those with skin diseases, they also provided a path for restoration and reintegration into the community, reflecting God’s desire for healing and reconciliation. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Leviticus 13:42?
2.How does Leviticus 13:42 guide us in understanding biblical cleanliness and holiness?
3.What does "bald head" signify in Leviticus 13:42 regarding spiritual impurity?
4.How can Leviticus 13:42 be connected to New Testament teachings on purity?
5.How should Leviticus 13:42 influence our approach to community health and safety today?
6.What spiritual lessons can we apply from Leviticus 13:42 in our daily lives?
7.What does Leviticus 13:42 reveal about ancient Israelite views on disease and impurity?
8.How does Leviticus 13:42 reflect God's concern for community health and holiness?
9.Why is leprosy specifically addressed in Leviticus 13:42, and what does it symbolize?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Leviticus 13?
11.Does commanding people with suspicious spots to remain quarantined align with modern understandings of infectious diseases (Leviticus 13:4-5)?
12.Why does the text attribute certain skin conditions to divine judgment instead of natural causes (Leviticus 13:9-17)?
13.Does requiring afflicted individuals to cry 'Unclean!' reflect compassion or reinforce superstition (Leviticus 13:45-46)?
14.What does the Bible mention about leprosy?What Does Leviticus 13:42 Mean But ifLeviticus 13 unfolds a careful, God-given process for distinguishing normal skin issues from serious uncleanness. “But if” alerts the priest—and us—to an exception in the inspection routine (Leviticus 13:38-39). When the usual signs of harmless baldness are absent, a new possibility must be considered, echoing the vigilance called for inDeuteronomy 24:8 andNumbers 12:10-15.
there is a reddish-white soreThe color combination stands out: red hints at inflammation, white at possible dead tissue. Together they match the classic signs of the dreaded skin disorder elsewhere in the chapter (Leviticus 13:19, 24). Similar descriptions frame the diagnosis of Naaman’s leprosy in2 Kings 5:27 and the ten lepers inLuke 17:12-14. Scripture uses vivid visual details so priests and people cannot mistake a threat that would isolate someone from worship (Leviticus 13:46).
on the bald head or foreheadBaldness itself is not condemned (Leviticus 13:40-41); only when abnormal discoloration appears does concern arise. God’s law guards each individual—young or old, naturally bald or not—showing impartiality (James 2:1). The forehead’s visibility underscores the public nature of defilement, just as the high priest’s gold plate on his forehead publicly declared holiness (Exodus 28:36-38).
it is an infectious disease breaking out on itThe priest’s declaration labels the condition “infectious” (Leviticus 13:44), triggering quarantine outside the camp (Leviticus 13:45-46). The passage illustrates how sin’s defilement spreads unless decisively addressed (Isaiah 1:5-6;1 Corinthians 5:6-7). Yet God provides a path to restoration when healing occurs (Leviticus 14:1-20), foreshadowing Christ’s cleansing touch inMatthew 8:2-4.
summaryLeviticus 13:42 warns that a reddish-white outbreak on a bald scalp is not mere cosmetic trouble but covenantal uncleanness requiring priestly action. The verse blends medical realism with spiritual symbolism: God protects community health while teaching Israel—and us—that visible corruption points to deeper need. Through rigorous diagnosis and ultimate provision of cleansing, the passage anticipates the perfect Priest who heals both body and soul. (42) And if there be in the bald head.--Better, But if there be in the bald backhead.But if a reddish-white eruption appears either in the hinder or fore part of the bald head, resembling that which arises in the place of healed boils (see Leviticus 13:19-24), then it indicates the existence of leprosy. In his bald head.--Better,in his bald backhead.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew But ifוְכִֽי־(wə·ḵî-)Conjunctive waw | Conjunction
Strong's 3588:A relative conjunctionthere isיִהְיֶ֤ה(yih·yeh)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1961:To fall out, come to pass, become, bea reddish-whiteלָבָ֣ן(lā·ḇān)Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 3836:Whitesoreנֶ֖גַע(ne·ḡa‘)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5061:Mark -- a blow, a spoton the bald headבַקָּרַ֙חַת֙(ḇaq·qā·ra·ḥaṯ)Preposition-b, Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 7146:A bald spot, a threadbare spotorא֣וֹ(’ōw)Conjunction
Strong's 176:Desire, ifforehead,בַגַּבַּ֔חַת(ḇag·gab·ba·ḥaṯ)Preposition-b, Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 1372:Baldness, a bare spotitהִ֔וא(hî)Pronoun - third person feminine singular
Strong's 1931:He, self, the same, this, that, as, areis an infectious diseaseצָרַ֤עַת(ṣā·ra·‘aṯ)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 6883:Leprosybreaking outפֹּרַ֙חַת֙(pō·ra·ḥaṯ)Verb - Qal - Participle - feminine singular
Strong's 6524:To break forth as a, bud, bloom, to spread, to fly, to flourish[on it].בְּקָרַחְתּ֖וֹ(bə·qā·raḥ·tōw)Preposition-b | Noun - feminine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 7146:A bald spot, a threadbare spot
Links Leviticus 13:42 NIVLeviticus 13:42 NLTLeviticus 13:42 ESVLeviticus 13:42 NASBLeviticus 13:42 KJV
Leviticus 13:42 BibleApps.comLeviticus 13:42 Biblia ParalelaLeviticus 13:42 Chinese BibleLeviticus 13:42 French BibleLeviticus 13:42 Catholic Bible
OT Law: Leviticus 13:42 But if there is in the bald (Le Lv Lev.) |
