Leviticus 14

Leviticus 14

BibleHub

The LordI spokeII to Moses,III saying, 

Notes on verse 1

I “Lord” = YHVH. From havah (to be, become) or hayah (to come to pass, become, be). This is the name of the God of Israel, the self-existent and eternal one, the tetragrammaton. This pronunciation has been lost to time so “Lord” is generally used in its place.
II “spoke” = dabar. This is generally to speak, answer, declare, or command. It might mean to arrange and so to speak in a figurative sense as arranging words.
III “Moses” = Mosheh. From mashah (to pull out in a literal or figurative sense, to draw out) OR from Egyptian mes or mesu (child, son i.e. child of…). This is Moses – the one drawn out from the water, which is to say, rescued. If derived from the Egyptian, his name would share a root with Rameses and Thutmose.

“This shall beIV the ruleV for the person with a defiling skin diseaseVI at the timeVII of his cleansing:VIII

Notes on verse 2a

IV “be” = hayah. Related to “Lord” in v1. See note I above.
V “rule” = torah. From yarah (to throw, shoot, be stunned; to flow as water so figuratively to instruct or teach). This is law, instruction, teaching, or statute. It can also refer to the first five books of the Bible – the Torah.
VI “defiling skin disease” = tsara. From tsaraath (leprosy or a mark). This is to have leprosy or be a leper.
VII “time” = yom. Root may mean being hot. This is the day in a literal or figurative sense. It can also mean birth, age, daylight, continually or other references to time.
VIII “cleansing” = tahorah. 15x in OT. From tohar (clearness or brightness; ritual purity); form taher (bright, which implies being pure or clean; to purge, cleanse, or purify; clean in a ritual sense or a moral one (i.e. moral or holy)). This is cleansing, purification – ritual or moral.

“He shall be broughtIX to the priest;X the priest shall goXI outXII of the camp,XIII and the priest shall make an examination.XIV

Notes on verses 2b-3a

IX “brought” = bo. This is to enter, come in, advance, fulfill, bring offerings, enter to worship, attack. It can also have a sexual connotation.
X “priest” = kohen. This is literally the one who officiates i.e. the priest. This is where the Jewish last name “Cohen” (and its variants) comes from.
XI “go” = yatsa. This is to go or come out, bring forth, appear. It is to go out in a literal or figurative sense.
XII “out” = chuts. Root may mean to sever. So, this is something that is separated by a wall – the outside, the street, a field, highway, or abroad.
XIII “camp” = machaneh. From chanah (to decline, bending down, or living in tents; can be camping to create a home or camping as a part of battle). This is an encampment, whether of people traveling together or soldiers. So, it can be a camp band, or company as well as an army of soldiers. Also can be used of other groups like animals, angels or stars.
XIV “make an examination” = raah. This is to see in a literal or figurative sense so stare, advise, think, view.

IfXV the diseaseXVI, XVII is healedXVIII in the defiled person,XIX 

Notes on verse 3b

XV {untranslated} = hinneh. From hen (lo! Behold! If, though; an expression of surprise). This is to draw attention, show suddenness or surprise, or to emphasize the importance of the coming statement. See! Lo! Behold!
XVI “disease” = nega. From naga (touch, reach, arrive, come near, strike; touching for any reason including sexual or violent). This is a blow or stroke, wound, sore, mark plague. It can refer to someone with leprosy or to dress.
XVII {untranslated} = tsaraath. Related to “defiling skin disease” in v2. See note VI above.
XVIII “healed” = rapha. Properly, this is to repair by stitching – figuratively this means to heal or cure. It can also mean to make whole.
XIX “defiled person” = tsara. Same as “defiling skin disease” in v2. See note VI above.

the priest shall commandXX that twoXXI livingXXII cleanXXIII birdsXXIV

Notes on verse 4a

XX “command” = tsavah. This is to charge, command, order, appoint, or enjoin. This is the root that the Hebrew word for “commandment” comes from (mitsvah).
XXI “two” = shenayim. From sheni (double, again, another, second); from shanah (to fold, repeat, double, alter, or disguise). This is two, both, second, couple.
XXII “living” = chay. From chayah (to live or keep alive literally or figuratively). This is alive, living, lifetime. It can also be used to describe someone’s age. It can refer to animals, plants, water, or a company or congregation of people. It is life in a very broad sense.
XXIII “clean” = tahor. Related to “cleansing” in v2 & “cleansed” in v4. From taher (see note VIII above). This is clean or pure in a literal, ritual, or ethical sense.
XXIV “birds” = tsippor. From tsaphar (to skip about, maybe to depart). This is a little bird like a sparrow – a little bird as one that hops about.

and cedarwoodXXV and crimson yarnXXVI and hyssopXXVII be broughtXXVIII for the one who is to be cleansed.XXIX 

Notes on verse 4b

XXV “cedarwood” = ets + erez. Ets is perhaps from atsah (to shut, fasten, firm up, to close one’s eyes). This is tree or other things related to trees like wood, sticks, or stalks. It can also refer to wood products like a plank or staff or gallows. Additionally, this can refer to a carpenter. Erez is perhaps from araz (made from cedar; to be firm, strong). This is cedar or a cedar tree as strong.
XXVI “crimson yarn” = shani + tola. Shani is crimson or scarlet. It can also refer to the insect that the red dye is made from (coccus ilicis), the color of that dye, or things dyed with it (like thread). Tola is a worm or maggot, perhaps a crimson-grub of species coccus ilicis. It is used in the manufacture of red dye. So, this word could be crimson, purple, or something dyed in those colors. It could also refer to an oppressor.
XXVII “hyssop” = ezob. 10x in OT. Perhaps of some Semitic origin. This is hyssop.
XXVIII “brought” = laqach. This is to take, accept, carry away, receive. It can also have the sense of take a wife or take in marriage.
XXIX “cleansed” = taher. Related to “cleansing” in v2. See note VIII above.

5 The priest shall command that oneXXX of the birds be slaughteredXXXI over freshXXXII waterXXXXIII in a clayXXXIV vessel.XXXV 

Notes on verse 5

XXX “one” = echad. Perhaps from achad (to unify, continue on a path; figuratively, to gather one’s thoughts). This is the number one, first, united. It can also be alone, altogether, a certain, a few.
XXXI “slaughtered” = shachath. This is to slaughter, slay, or beat. It can be slaying for a sacrifice or in a massacre.
XXXII “fresh” = chay. Same as “living” in v4. See note XXII above.
XXXIII “water” = mayim. This is water, waters, or waterway in a general sense. Figuratively, it can also mean juice, urine, or semen.
XXXIV “clay” = cheres. 17x in OT. This is earthenware, a potsherd, a stone.
XXXV “vessel” = keli. From kalah (to end, be finished, complete, prepare, consume, spent, or completely destroyed). This is something that was prepared – any implement, utensil, article, vessel, weapon, or instrument. Also includes jewels, weapons, bags, carriages, and furniture.

He shall takeXXXVI the living bird with the cedarwood and the crimson yarn and the hyssop and dipXXXVII them and the living bird in the bloodXXXVIII of the bird that was slaughtered over the fresh water. 

Notes on verse 6

XXXVI “take” = laqach. Same as “brought” in v4. See note XXVIII above.
XXXVII “dip” = tabal. 16x in OT. This is to dip or immerse. It is used to describe religious rites, as part of murderous schemes (e.g. Joseph’s brothers dipping his coat in goat’s blood), for everyday purposes, and also of miracles (e.g. Naaman immersing himself in the Jordan).
XXXVIII “blood” = dam. Perhaps from damam (to cease, be or become mute, silent, still, cut off, hold peace, be astonished, die). This is blood, bloodshed, bloodguilt, lifeblood, and death. It is used for people and animals. More often blood from a wound or the blood of the innocent. Used figuratively for violence or for wine. Closely tied to life and death.

He shall sprinkleXXXIX it sevenXL timesXLI upon the one who is to be cleansed of the defiling disease;XLII then he shall pronounce him clean,XLIII and he shall let the living bird goXLIV

Notes on verse 7a

XXXIX “sprinkle” = nazah. This is to sprinkle, spurt, or leap. Sprinkling especially refers to rituals of expiation.
XL “seven” = sheba. This is seven or by sevenfold. It can also be used to imply a week or an indefinite number. Symbolically, this is the number of fullness, sacredness, perfection.
XLI “times” = paam. From paam (to move, trouble; to tap in a regular rhythm; to agitate). This is a beat, stroke, footstep, or occurrence.
XLII “defiling disease” = tsaraath. Same as {untranslated} in v3. See note XVII above.
XLIII “pronounce…clean” = taher. Same as “cleansed” in v4. See note XXIX above.
XLIV “let…go” = shalach. This is to send out, away, send for, forsake. It can also mean to divorce or set a slave free.

into the openXLV field.XLVI The one who is to be cleansed shall washXLVII his clothesXLVIII and shave offXLIX

Notes on verses 7b-8a

XLV “open” = paneh. From panah (to turn, face, appear). This is face in a literal or figurative sense. It could be face, presence, anger, respect. It can also be used of God to indicate divine favor or presence.
XLVI “field” = sadeh. This is literally field, ground, soil, or land. It can be used to mean wild like a wild animal.
XLVII “wash” = kabas. This is to trample – washing by stomping feet. It can be fulling in a literal or figurative sense.
XLVIII “clothes” = beged. From bagad (to cover or conceal; figuratively, to act in a covert or treacherous way, to transgress or pillage). This is clothing, garment, robe, or some other kind of clothing. Figuratively, it can be treachery or pillaging.
XLIX “shave off” = galach. This is to shave, be bald, or figuratively to lay waste.

allL his hairLI and batheLII himself in water, and he shall be clean.LIII

Notes on verse 8b

L “all” = kol. From kalal (to complete). This is all or every.
LI “hair” = sear. Perhaps from sa’ar (to storm, scattered by a storm, blow away, rage, storm tossed; this is to toss in a literal or figurative sense). This is hair, hairy, or rough.
LII “bathe” = rachats. This is to wash, wash away – it can be complete or partial.
LIII “be clean” = taher. Same as “cleansed” in v4. See note XXIX above.

AfterLIV that he shall comeLV into the camp but shall liveLVI outside his tentLVII seven days.LVIII 

Notes on verse 8c

LIV “after” = achar. From achar (to remain behind, linger, continue, be behind, or delay; can also imply procrastination). This is after or the last part, following.
LV “come” = bo. Same as “brought” in v2. See note IX above.
LVI “live” = yashab. This is to sit and so to remain and so to dwell. It is sitting for any reason – as a judge, in order to ambush, or just sitting quietly. Causatively, this can mean settling or marrying. This can also mean continue, endure, or establish.
LVII “tent” = ohel. Perhaps from ahal (to shine, be clear). This is a tent, covering, home, or side pillar.
LVIII “days” = yom. Same as “time” in v2. See note VII above.

LIXOn the seventhLX day he shall shave all his hair: of head,LXI beard,LXII eyebrows;LXIII he shall shave all his hair. Then he shall wash his clothes and bathe his bodyLXIV in water, and he shall be clean.

Notes on verse 9

LIX {untranslated} = hayah. Same as “be” in v2. See note IV above.
LX “seventh” = shebii. Related to “seven” in v7. From sheba (see note XL above). This is seventh.
LXI “head” = rosh. This may come a word that means to shake. It is the head, captain, or chief. It can also be excellent or the forefront. It can be first in position or in statue or in time (i.e. the beginning).
LXII “beard” = zaqan. 19x in OT. Perhaps from zaqen (to grow old, an old person). This is beard, especially as referring to someone older.
LXIII “eyebrows” = gab + ayin. Gab is 13x in OT. Root may mean to curve or hollow. It is a back because it is rounded, the brow of the eye, rim, a vault, higher place, or shrine. Ayin is  eye in a literal or figurative sense so eye, appearance, favor, or a fountain (the eye of the landscape).
LXIV “body” = basar. From basar (being a messenger, publish, carry preach; properly, this is being fresh, rosy or cheerful as one bearing news). This is flesh, the body, fat, skin, self, nakedness, humankind, or kin. It can also refer to private parts.

10 “On the eighthLXV day he shall take two male lambsLXVI without blemishLXVII and one ewe lambLXVIII in its firstLXIX yearLXX without blemish

Notes on verse 10a

LXV “eighth” = shemini. From the same as shemoneh (eight; can be figurative for surplus); perhaps from shamen (to shine, which implies being oily, growing fat); from shaman (to grow fat, shine, be oily). This is eighth or sheminith.
LXVI “male lambs” = kebes. Root may mean to dominate. This is a young male sheep – having just reached the age where it can butt other sheep.
LXVII “without blemish” = tamim. From tamam (to finish or accomplish; to make perfect, demonstrate that you are upright; consume; to complete in a literal or figurative sense). This is entire in a literal or figurative sense. So, it could be complete, full, intact, or without defect. Alternately, it could refer to being sound, having integrity, being sincere or perfect.
LXVIII “ewe lamb” = kibsah. Related to “male lambs” in v10. 8x in OT. From the same as kebes (see note LXVI above). This is a ewe lamb.
LXIX “first” = bat. From ben (son literal or figurative; also, grandson, subject, nation); from banah (to build or obtain children). This is daughter in a literal or figurative sense.
LXX “year” = shanah. From shana (to change, alter). This is a year, age, old. It can also mean yearly.

and a grain offeringLXXI of threeLXXII-tenthsLXXIII of an ephah of choice flourLXXIV mixedLXXV with oilLXXVI and one logLXXVII of oil. 

Notes on verse 10b

LXXI “grain offering” = minchah. This is a gift or an offering, particularly a sacrificial one that is generally bloodless and given spontaneously (voluntarily).
LXXII “three” = shalosh. This is three, fork, three times.
LXXIII “tenths” = issaron. From the same as eser (ten, -teen); from asar (to tithe, render a tenth of). This is a tenth.
LXXIV “choice flour” = soleth. It may come from a word that means to strip. This is fine flour.
LXXV “mixed” = balal. This is to anoint, mix, overflow. It can also be to fodder or temper.
LXXVI “oil” = shemen. Related to “eighth” in v10. From shamen (see note LXV above). This is fat, oil, grease, olive oil – often with perfume. Used figuratively for fertile, lavish, rich.
LXXVII “log” = log. 5x in OT – all in Leviticus 14. This is log, which is a measure of oil. It may come from a word that means to deepen.

11 The priest who cleanses shall setLXXVIII the personLXXIX to be cleansed, along with these things, beforeLXXX the Lord,LXXXI at the entranceLXXXII of the tent of meeting.LXXXIII 

Notes on verse 11

LXXVIII “set” = amad. This is to stand up in a literal or figurative sense. So it can be establish, continue, endure, take a stand, act, be a servant, stand still, remain, stand against an enemy.
LXXIX “person” = ish. Perhaps from enosh (human, humankind, mortal); from anash (to be weak, sick, or frail). This is man, husband, another, or humankind.
LXXX “before” = paneh. Same as “open” in v7. See note XLV above.
LXXXI “Lord” = YHVH. Related to “Lord” in v1 & “be” in v2. See note I above. It has a different vowel pointing, but the same meaning as “Lord.”
LXXXII “entrance” = petach. From patach (to open wide in a literal or figurative sense, loosen, plow, carve). This is opening, door, gate, entrance.
LXXXIII “meeting” = moed. From yaad (to appoint, assemble or gather selves, agree). This is a meeting, assembly, fixed time. It can be used for a festival or feast. It can also refer to a meeting place.

12 The priest shall take one of the lambsLXXXIV and offerLXXXV it as a guilt offering,LXXXVI along with the log of oil,

Notes on verse 12a

LXXXIV “lambs” = kebes. Same as “male lambs” in v10. See note LXVI above.
LXXXV “offer” = qarab. This is to come near, offer, make ready, approach, take.
LXXXVI “guilt offering” = asham. From asham (to be guilty, suffer, be punished; to destroy, condemn, be desolate, perish). This is guilt, sin, wrong, or offense. It is also a sin or guilt offering.

and raiseLXXXVII them as an elevation offeringLXXXVIII beforeLXXXIX the Lord.XC 

Notes on verse 12b

LXXXVII “raise” = nuph. This is to rock back and forth, wave, sprinkle, quiver, beckon, offer, present.
LXXXVIII “elevation offering” = tenuphah. Related to “raise” in v12. From nuph (see note LXXXVII above). This is something that is waved or swung. So, it could be an elevation offering that is offered in that way. It can also refer to someone presenting a weapon in a threatening manner or to imply greater tumult.
LXXXIX “before” = paneh. Same as “open” in v7. See note XLV above.
XC “Lord” = YHVH. Same as “Lord” in v1. See note I above.

13 He shall slaughter the lambXCI in the placeXCII where the purification offeringXCIII

Notes on verse 13a

XCI “lamb” = kebes. Same as “male lambs” in v10. See note LXVI above.
XCII “place” = maqom. From qum(to arise, stand, accomplish, establish, abide; rising against, getting up after being sick or asleep, arising from one state to another, becoming powerful, or rising for action; standing in a figurative sense). This is a standing, which is to say a spot or space a place. It can also refer to a locality or a physical/mental condition. HaMaqom is also a Jewish name for God – the place, i.e. the Omnipresent One.
XCIII “purification offering” = chatta’ah. From chata’ (to miss or go wrong and so to sin, bear the blame; it can also include the sense of forfeiting or lacking). This is sin itself as well as punishment for sin. It is sometimes used specifically to refer to sin that is habitual.

and the burnt offeringXCIV are slaughtered in the holyXCV place, for the guilt offering, like the purification offering, belongs to the priest; it is most holy.XCVI 

Notes on verse 13b

XCIV “burnt offering” = olah. From alah (to go up, climb, approach, bring; to be high or actively climb; can be literal or figurative). This is a step, stairs, or some kind of ascent. It is also used for whole burnt offerings, being the offering in which the whole things is burned and rises as smoke. Burnt offerings were the least common of the offerings: most were eaten, shared with the priest and the one bringing the offering.
XCV “holy” = qodesh. This is set apart and so sacred. God is different from us and so God is holy/set apart. Things we dedicate to God’s service are set apart for God and so they, too, are holy, etc.
XCVI “most holy” = qodesh + qodesh. Literally, “holy of holies.” Same as “holy” in v13. See note XCV above.

14 The priest shall take some of the blood of the guilt offering and putXCVII it on the lobeXCVIII of the rightXCIX earC of the one to be cleansed

Notes on verse 14a

XCVII “put” = natan. This is to give, put, set, offer. It is to give literally or figuratively.
XCVIII “lobe” = tenuk. 8x in OT– 2x in Exodus & 6x in Leviticus. Perhaps from the same as anak (plumb line, hook; root may mean to be narrow). This is tip or lobe.
XCIX “right” = yemani. From the same as yamin (right hand or side; that which is stronger or more agile; the south); {perhaps yamam (to go or choose the right, use the right hand; to be physically fit or firm)}. This is right, right side, or south.
C “ear” = ozen. This is ear, hearing, audience, show. Properly, it is broadness – applied to its ear in reference to its shape.

and on the thumbCI of the right handCII and on the big toeCIII of the right foot.CIV 15 The priest shall take some of the log of oil and pourCV it into the palmCVI

Notes on verses 14b-15a

CI “thumb” = bohen. 16x in OT. May come from a root referring to thickness. This is a thumb or big toe.
CII “hand” = yad. This is hand, ability, power. Hand in a literal sense, but also what one can do or the means by which one does it.
CIII “big toe” = bohen. Same as “thumb” in v14. See note CI above.
CIV “foot” = regel. This is foot, endurance, or journey. It is a foot as the means of walking and so it implies a step or a greater journey. It can be used euphemistically for private parts.
CV “pour” = yatsaq. This is to pour out, flow, wash away, or overflow. It can imply melting as one does to cast metal. By extension, it can refer to something being steadfast, stiffened, firmly in place.
CVI “palm” = kaph. From kaphaph (to bend – from a root meaning curve or bend down). This is palm of the hand or sole of the foot, footstep, grasp. Figuratively, it can also mean power.

of his ownCVII left handCVIII 16 andCIX dip his right fingerCX in the oil that is in his left handCXI and sprinkle some oil with his finger seven times beforeCXII the Lord.CXIII 

Notes on verses 15b-16

CVII “own” = kohen. Same as “priest” in v2. See note X above.
CVIII “left hand” = semali. 9x in OT. From the same as semol (left, left side, or north as the part that is dark); perhaps from the same as simlah (mantle, clothes, wrapper); from semel (image, figure, likeness). This is left, left side, or around.
CIX {untranslated} = kohen. Same as “priest” in v2. See note X above.
CX “finger” = etsba. Perhaps from the same as tseba (dye, something dipped). This is finger or toe – something used to seize.
CXI “hand” = kaph. Same as “palm” in v15. See note CVI above.
CXII “before” = paneh. Same as “open” in v7. See note XLV above.
CXIII “Lord” = YHVH. Same as “Lord” in v1. See note I above.

17 Some of the oil that remainsCXIV in his handCXV the priest shall put on the lobe of the right ear of the one to be cleansed and on the thumb of the right handCXVI and on the big toe of the right foot, on top of the blood of the guilt offering. 18 The restCXVII of the oil that is in the priest’s handCXVIII he shall put on the head of the one to be cleansed. Then the priest shall make atonementCXIX on his behalf

Notes on verses 17-18a

CXIV “remains” = yether. From yathar (to jut over, remain behind, preserve, to excel). This is a remainder or excess. It can imply abundant or superiority. Additionally, it can be cord a free-hanging rope.
CXV “hand” = kaph. Same as “palm” in v15. See note CVI above.
CXVI “hand” = yad. Same as “hand” in v14. See note CII above.
CXVII “rest” = yathar. Related to “remains” in v17. See note CXIV above.
CXVIII “hand” = kaph. Same as “palm” in v15. See note CVI above.
CXIX “make atonement” = kaphar. This is to appease, cover, pacify, cancel, make atonement, placate. Specifically, it can mean to cover with bitumen.

beforeCXX the Lord:CXXI 19 the priest shall offerCXXII the purification offering, to make atonement for the one to be cleansed from his uncleanness.CXXIII AfterwardCXXIV he shall slaughter the burnt offering, 20 and the priest shall offerCXXV the burnt offering and the grain offering on the altar.CXXVI Thus the priest shall make atonement on his behalf, and he shall be clean.

Notes on verses 18b-20

CXX “before” = paneh. Same as “open” in v7. See note XLV above.
CXXI “Lord” = YHVH. Same as “Lord” in v1. See note I above.
CXXII “offer” = asah. This is to make, do, act, appoint, become in many senses.
CXXIII “uncleanness” = tum’ah. From tame (becoming unclean, foul, defiled; polluted, particularly in a ritual or moral sense). This is filthiness or uncleanness. It can refer to ritual or moral impurity.
CXXIV “afterward” = achar. Same as “after” in v8. See note LIV above.
CXXV “offer” = alah. Related to “burnt offering” in v13. See note XCIV above.
CXXVI “altar” = mizbeach. From zabach (to kill, slay, offer; slaughtering an animal to offer as a sacrifice). This is an altar.

21 “But if he is poorCXXVII and cannot affordCXXVIII so much,CXXIX he shall take one male lamb for a guilt offering to be elevated,CXXX to make atonement on his behalf, and one-tenth of an ephah of choice flour mixed with oil for a grain offering and a log of oil, 22 also two turtledovesCXXXI or twoCXXXII pigeons,CXXXIII

Notes on verses 21-22a

CXXVII “poor” = dal. From dalal (to be low, hang, fade, be emptied, become poor, be oppressed). This is lean, weak, needy, poor. Properly, it is one who is dangling.
CXXVIII “afford” = nasag. This is to reach in a literal or figurative sense. It is to overtake, catch, or be able to.
CXXIX “much” = yad. Same as “hand” in v14. See note CII above.
CXXX “elevated” = tenuphah. Same as “elevation offering” in v12. See note LXXXVIII above.
CXXXI “turtledoves” = tor. 14x in OT. This is a literal dove – it can also be a romantic term of affection.
CXXXII {untranslated} = ben. Related to “first” in v10. See note LXIX above.
CXXXIII “pigeons” = yonah. Perhaps from yayin (wine; root means to effervesce). This is a dove or pigeon. Used to refer to the exiles coming home, to describe sails of ships. Also used figuratively for mourning or as a description of beauty.

such as he can afford,CXXXIV one for a purification offering and the otherCXXXV for a burnt offering. 23 On the eighth day he shall bring them for his cleansing to the priest, to the entrance of the tent of meeting, beforeCXXXVI the Lord,CXXXVII 24 and the priest shall take the lambCXXXVIII of the guilt offering and the log of oil, and the priest shall raise them as an elevation offering beforeCXXXIX the Lord.CXL 

Notes on verses 22b-24

CXXXIV {untranslated} = yad + hayah. Yad is the same as “hand” in v14. See note CII above. Hayah is the same as “be” in v2. See note IV above.
CXXXV “other” = echad. Same as “one” in v5. See note XXX above.
CXXXVI “before” = paneh. Same as “open” in v7. See note XLV above.
CXXXVII “Lord” = YHVH. Same as “Lord” in v1. See note I above.
CXXXVIII “lamb” = kebes. Same as “male lambs” in v10. See note LXVI above.
CXXXIX “before” = paneh. Same as “open” in v7. See note XLV above.
CXL “Lord” = YHVH. Same as “Lord” in v1. See note I above.

25 The priest shall slaughter the lambCXLI of the guilt offering and shall take some of the blood of the guilt offering and put it on the lobe of the right ear of the one to be cleansed and on the thumb of the right handCXLII and on the big toe of the right foot. 26 The priest shall pour some of the oil into the palm of his ownCXLIII left hand 27 andCXLIV shall sprinkle with his right finger some of the oil that is in his left handCXLV seven times beforeCXLVI the Lord.CXLVII 

Notes on verses 25-27

CXLI “lamb” = kebes. Same as “male lambs” in v10. See note LXVI above.
CXLII “hand” = yad. Same as “hand” in v14. See note CII above.
CXLIII “own” = kohen. Same as “priest” in v2. See note X above.
CXLIV {untranslated} = kohen. Same as “priest” in v2. See note X above.
CXLV “hand” = kaph. Same as “palm” in v15. See note CVI above.
CXLVI “before” = paneh. Same as “open” in v7. See note XLV above.
CXLVII “Lord” = YHVH. Same as “Lord” in v1. See note I above.

28 The priest shall put some of the oil that is in his handCXLVIII on the lobe of the right ear of the one to be cleansed and on the thumb of the right handCXLIX and the big toe of the right foot, where the blood of the guilt offering was placed. 29 The rest of the oil that is in the priest’s handCL he shall put on the head of the one to be cleansed, to make atonement on his behalf beforeCLI the Lord.CLII 

Notes on verses 28-29

CXLVIII “hand” = kaph. Same as “palm” in v15. See note CVI above.
CXLIX “hand” = yad. Same as “hand” in v14. See note CII above.
CL “hand” = kaph. Same as “palm” in v15. See note CVI above.
CLI “before” = paneh. Same as “open” in v7. See note XLV above.
CLII “Lord” = YHVH. Same as “Lord” in v1. See note I above.

30 And he shall offer,CLIII CLIVof the turtledoves orCLV pigeons, such as he can afford,CLVI 31 CLVIIone for a purification offering and the other for a burnt offering, along with a grain offering, and the priest shall make atonement beforeCLVIII the LordCLIX on behalf of the one being cleansed. 

Notes on verses 30-31

CLIII “offer” = asah. Same as “offer” in v19. See note CXXII above.
CLIV {untranslated} = echad. Same as “one” in v5. See note XXX above.
CLV {untranslated} = ben. Same as {untranslated} in v22. See note CXXXII above.
CLVI {untranslated} = yad. Same as “hand” in v14. See note CII above.
CLVII {untranslated} = nasag + yad. Nasag is the same as “afford” in v21. See note CXXVIII above. Yad is the same as “hand” in v14. See note CII above.
CLVIII “before” = paneh. Same as “open” in v7. See note XLV above.
CLIX “Lord” = YHVH. Same as “Lord” in v1. See note I above.

32 This is the rule for the one who has a defilingCLX disease who cannot affordCLXI the offerings for his cleansing.”

33 The LordCLXII spoke to Moses and Aaron,CLXIII saying:

34 “When you come into the landCLXIV of Canaan,CLXV

Notes on verses 32-34a

CLX “defiling” = tsaraath. Same as {untranslated} in v3. See note XVII above.
CLXI {untranslated} = yad. Same as “hand” in v14. See note CII above.
CLXII “Lord” = YHVH. Same as “Lord” in v1. See note I above.
CLXIII “Aaron” = Aharon. Derivation uncertain. May mean “bearer of martyrs” OR be related to Ancient Egyptian ꜥḥꜣ rw (warrior lion) OR elevated, exalted, high mountain. This is Aaron. See https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Aaron
CLXIV “land” = erets. Root may mean to be firm. This is earth, ground, field land, or country.
CLXV “Canaan” = Kna’an. From kana’ (to be humble, subdue; properly, bend the knee). This is Canaan, his descendants, and the land where they settled. This could mean lowlands, describing their land or subjugated in reference to being conquered by Egypt. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canaan

which I giveCLXVI you for a possession,CLXVII and I put a defiling disease in a houseCLXVIII in the land of your possession, 35 the owner of the house shall come and tellCLXIX the priest, saying, ‘There seemsCLXX to me to be some sort of disease in my house.’ 36 The priest shall command that they emptyCLXXI the house beforeCLXXII the priest

Notes on verses 34b-36a

CLXVI “give” = natan. Same as “put” in v14. See note XCVII above.
CLXVII “possession” = achuzzah. From achaz (to grasp, catch, seize, take and hold in possession). This is a possession, particularly used of land.
CLXVIII “house” = bayit. Related to “first” in v10 & {untranslated} in v22. Probably from banah (see note LXIX above). This is house, court, family, palace, temple.
CLXIX “tell” = nagad. This is to declare, make conspicuous, stand in front, manifest, predict, explain.
CLXX “seems” = raah. Same as “make an examination” in v3. See note XIV above.
CLXXI “empty” = panah. Related to “open” in v7. See note XLV above.
CLXXII “before” = terem. May come from a word that means to interrupt. This is not yet or before.

goesCLXXIII to examineCLXXIV the disease, or all that is in the house will become unclean,CLXXV and afterwardCLXXVI the priest shall go inCLXXVII to inspectCLXXVIII the house. 

Notes on verse 36b

CLXXIII “goes” = bo. Same as “brought” in v2. See note IX above.
CLXXIV “examine” = raah. Same as “make an examination” in v3. See note XIV above.
CLXXV “become unclean” = tame. Related to “uncleanness” in v19. See note CXXIII above.
CLXXVI {untranslated} = ken. Perhaps from kun (properly, in a perpendicular position; literally, to establish, fix, fasten, prepare; figuratively, it is certainty, to be firm, faithfulness, render sure or prosperous). This is to set upright. Generally used figuratively to mean thus, so, afterwards, rightly so.
CLXXVII “go in” = bo. Same as “brought” in v2. See note IX above.
CLXXVIII “inspect” = raah. Same as “make an examination” in v3. See note XIV above.

37 He shall examine the disease;CLXXIX if the disease is in the wallsCLXXX of the house with greenishCLXXXI or reddishCLXXXII spots,CLXXXIII

Notes on verse 37a

CLXXIX {untranslated} = hinneh. Same as {untranslated} in v3. See note XV above.
CLXXX “walls” = qir. Perhaps from qur (to dig, destroy, wall up). This is a wall, ceiling, surface, mason, or town.
CLXXXI “greenish” = yeraqraq. 3x in OT. From the same as yereq (something green or yellow-green; could be of pallor or some kind of vegetation); from yaraq (to spit). This is yellowish or pale green. It can also mean glistening.
CLXXXII “reddish” = adamdam. 6x in OT – all in Leviticus 13 & 14. From the same as adom (to be red or flushed). This is reddish or reddish-white.
CLXXXIII “spots” = sheqaarurah. 1x in OT. From the same as qearah (a dish, bowl, or charger); probably from qara (to tear or cut out in a literal or figurative sense; to revile or to apply eye make up – as though they are made to look larger). This is a depression or spot.

and if it appearsCLXXXIV to be deeperCLXXXV than the surface,CLXXXVI 38 the priest shall go outsideCLXXXVII to the doorCLXXXVIII of the house and shut upCLXXXIX the house seven days. 

Notes on verses 37b-38

CLXXXIV “appears” = mareh. Related to “make an examination” in v3. From raah (see note XIV above). This is sight, appearance, or vision. It can be a view, seeing itself, that which is seen, something real, or a vision one sees.
CLXXXV “deeper” = shaphal. 19x in OT. From shaphel (to be low, sink, be cast down, put down, humble, or humiliate). This is low, humble, lowly, depressed. It can be used in a literal or figurative sense.
CLXXXVI “surface” = qir. Same as “walls” in v37. See note CLXXX above.
CLXXXVII “go outside” = yatsa. Same as “go” in v3. See note XI above.
CLXXXVIII “door” = petach. Same as “entrance” in v11. See note LXXXII above.
CLXXXIX “shut up” = sagar. This is to shut up, imprison, lock, hand over, or figuratively surrender.

39 The priest shall come againCXC on the seventh day and make an inspection;CXCI if the disease has spreadCXCII in the walls of the house, 40 the priest shall command that the stonesCXCIII in which the disease appears be taken outCXCIV

Notes on verses 39-40a

CXC “come again” = shub. To turn back, return, turn away – literally or figuratively. Doesn’t necessarily imply going back to where you started from. This is also the root verb for the Hebrew word for repentance “teshubah.”
CXCI {untranslated} = hinneh. Same as {untranslated} in v3. See note XV above.
CXCII “spread” = pasah. This is to spread or spread further.
CXCIII “stones” = eben. This is a stone, weight, or mason. It is part of the word “Ebenezer.”
CXCIV “taken out” = chalats. This is to turn back or away in a literal or figurative sense. So, it could be return, break, build, retreat. It doesn’t necessarily imply going back to the place you started.

and thrownCXCV into an uncleanCXCVI place outside the city.CXCVII 41 He shall have the insideCXCVIII of the house scrapedCXCIX thoroughly,CC

Notes on verses 40b-41a

CXCV “thrown” = shalak. This is to throw, fling, or hurl. It can also be to throw away in a literal or figurative sense.
CXCVI “unclean” = tame. Related to “uncleanness” in v19 & “become unclean” in v36. See note CXXIII above.
CXCVII “city” = iyr. From uwr (to awaken or wake oneself up). This can mean excitement in the sense of wakefulness or city. Properly, this is a place that is guarded. Guards kept schedules according to watches. This sense of the word would include cities as well as encampments or posts that were guarded.
CXCVIII “inside” = bayit. Same as “house” in v34. See note CLXVIII above.
CXCIX “scraped” = qatsa. 2x in OT. This is to strip off or scrape in part. It can also refer to corners.
CC “thoroughly” = sabib. From sabab (turning around, going around; to surround, cast, walk, fetch; to revolve or border in a literal or figurative sense). This is a circuit or a circle. It could refer to an environment, one’s neighbors, or a circular path round about.

and the plasterCCI that is scraped offCCII shall be dumpedCCIII in an unclean place outside the city. 

Notes on verse 41b

CCI “plaster” = aphar. May be related to aphar (to throw dust, be dust). This is dust as powdered, perhaps gray colored. It could be ashes, powder, ground, dry earth, clay mud, or rubbish.
CCII “scraped off” = qatsah. 5x in OT. This is to cut off or scrape. It can also mean destroy figuratively.
CCIII “dumped” = shaphak. This is to pour out, gust, or slip. It can be to pour as blood, a drink offering, or molten metal. It can also mean to create a mound. Figuratively, it can refer to killing, or spending money.

42 They shall take otherCCIV stones and putCCV them in the placeCCVI of those stones and take otherCCVII plasterCCVIII and plaster the house.

Notes on verse 42

CCIV “other” = acher. Related to “after” in v8. From achar (see note LIV above). This is following, next, strange, other.
CCV “put” = bo. Same as “brought” in v2. See note IX above.
CCVI “place” = tachat. This is underneath, below, the bottom, instead of.
CCVII “other” = acher. Same as “other” in v42. See note CCIV above.
CCVIII “plaster” = tuach. 12x in OT. This is to smear or spread over, particularly to plaster or daub.

43 “If the disease breaks outCCIX againCCX in the house, after he has taken out the stones andCCXI scraped the house andCCXII plasteredCCXIII it, 

Notes on verse 43

CCIX “breaks out” = parach. This is to sprout, blossom, bloom, spread, flourish.
CCX “again” = shub. Same as “come again” in v39. See note CXC above.
CCXI {untranslated} = achar. Same as “after” in v8. See note LIV above.
CCXII {untranslated} = achar. Same as “after” in v8. See note LIV above.
CCXIII “plastered” = tuach. Same as “plaster” in v42. See note CCVIII above.

44 the priest shall goCCXIV and make inspection;CCXV if the disease has spread in the house, it is a spreadingCCXVI defiling disease in the house; it is unclean. 45 He shall have the house torn down,CCXVII its stones and timberCCXVIII and all the plasterCCXIX of the house, and takenCCXX outside the city to an unclean place. 

Notes on verses 44-45

CCXIV “go” = bo. Same as “brought” in v2. See note IX above.
CCXV {untranslated} = hinneh. Same as {untranslated} in v3. See note XV above.
CCXVI “spreading” = maar. 4x in OT. This is to prick, fret, cause pain.
CCXVII “torn down” = nathats. This is to pull down, demolish, break down, raze, overthrow.
CCXVIII “timber” = ets. Same as “cedarwood” in v4. See note XXV above.
CCXIX “plaster” = aphar. Same as “plaster” in v41. See note CCI above.
CCXX “taken” = yatsa. Same as “go” in v3. See note XI above.

46 All who enterCCXXI the house whileCCXXII it is shut up shall be unclean until the evening,CCXXIII 47 and all who sleepCCXXIV in the house shall wash their clothes, and all who eatCCXXV in the house shall wash their clothes.

Notes on verses 46-47

CCXXI “enter” = bo. Same as “brought” in v2. See note IX above.
CCXXII “while” = yom. Same as “time” in v2. See note VII above.
CCXXIII “evening” = ereb. This is evening or night.
CCXXIV “sleep” = shakab. This is to lie down, lodge. It is lying for sleep, sex, or other reasons.
CCXXV “eat” = akal. This is to eat, devour, burn up, or otherwise consume. It can be eating in a literal or figurative sense.

48 “If the priest comesCCXXVI and makes an inspection andCCXXVII the disease has not spread in the house after the house was plastered,CCXXVIII the priest shall pronounce the house clean; the disease is healed. 49 For the cleansingCCXXIX of the house he shall take two birds, with cedarwood and crimson yarn and hyssop, 50 and shall slaughter one of the birds over fresh water in a clay vessel 51 and shall take the cedarwood and the hyssop and the crimson yarn, along with the living bird, and dip them in the blood of the slaughtered bird and the fresh water and sprinkle the house seven times. 52 Thus he shall cleanseCCXXX the house with the blood of the bird, and with the fresh water, and with the living bird, and with the cedarwood and hyssop and crimson yarn, 53 and he shall let the living bird go out of the city into the open field; so he shall make atonement for the house, and it shall be clean.

Notes on verses 48-53

CCXXVI “comes” = bo + bo. Same as “brought” in v2. See note IX above. The word is repeated twice – the first time as an Infinitive Absolute. The Infinitive Absolute serves to emphasize the sentiment of the word. It is rather like Foghorn Leghorn’s speech pattern, “I said, I said.”
CCXXVII {untranslated} = hinneh. Same as {untranslated} in v3. See note XV above.
CCXXVIII “plastered” = tuach. Same as “plaster” in v42. See note CCVIII above.
CCXXIX “cleansing” = chata. Related to “purification offering” in v13. See note XCIII above.
CCXXX “cleanse” = chata. Same as “cleansing” in v49. See note CCXXIX above.

54 “This is the rule for anyCCXXXI defiling disease: for an itch,CCXXXII 55 for defiling diseases in clothing and houses, 56 and for a swellingCCXXXIII or an eruptionCCXXXIV or a spot,CCXXXV 57 to determineCCXXXVI whenCCXXXVII it is unclean and whenCCXXXVIII it is clean. This is the rule for defiling diseases.”

Notes on verses 54-57

CCXXXI “any” = kol. Same as “all” in v8. See note L above.
CCXXXII “itch” = netheq. 14x in OT. From nathaq (to pull, tear off, drag, separate, lift, burst, root out, or snap). This is an itch, scaly place, or scab.
CCXXXIII “swelling” = seeth. 14x in OT. From nasa (to lift in a broad sense, literally and figuratively; to carry, take, or arise; to bring forth, advance, accept). This is elevation, swelling, elation, dignity, being accepted.
CCXXXIV “eruption” = sappachath. 2x in OT – both in Leviticus. Perhaps from saphach (to join, assign, gather, mix, scarpe, get a scab). This is an eruption or scab.
CCXXXV “spot” = bahereth. 12x in OT– all in Leviticus. Perhaps from bahir (bright, shining). This is brightness or a white spot.
CCXXXVI “determine” = yarah. Related to “rule” in v2. See note V above.
CCXXXVII “when” = yom. Same as “time” in v2. See note VII above.
CCXXXVIII “when” = yom. Same as “time” in v2. See note VII above.


Image credit: “The Camp before Sinai” by James Tissot.

You May Also Like

Leave a Reply