Leviticus 13:22 - Spreading impurity demands priestly judgment?

Understanding the Verse in Context

This verse (Vayikra 13:22) is part of the Torah's detailed laws concerning tzara'at (often translated as "leprosy," but understood by our Sages as a supernatural affliction related to spiritual failings). The verse describes a situation where a skin affliction spreads significantly, leading the kohen (priest) to declare the person ritually impure (tamei).

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi (Vayikra 13:22) explains that the phrase "וְאִם־פָּשֹׂה תִפְשֶׂה" ("if it spread much abroad") implies a rapid or extensive spreading of the affliction. He emphasizes that the kohen must examine the progression of the affliction carefully before rendering a decision. Rashi also notes that the doubling of the verb (פָּשֹׂה תִפְשֶׂה) suggests an intensification, indicating that the spread is unmistakable and undeniable.

Rambam's Perspective

In Hilchot Tumat Tzara'at (9:3), the Rambam (Maimonides) elaborates on the criteria for declaring impurity. He states that the spreading must be visible and confirmed by the kohen after a second inspection following a period of quarantine. The Rambam underscores that the declaration of impurity is not arbitrary but follows a rigorous halachic process.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 15:5) connects tzara'at to the sin of lashon hara (evil speech), citing the case of Miriam, who was afflicted with tzara'at after speaking negatively about Moshe (Bamidbar 12:10). The spreading of the affliction symbolizes how harmful speech can grow and contaminate relationships and communities if not checked.

Halachic Implications

• The kohen plays a central role in diagnosing tzara'at, reflecting the spiritual dimension of the affliction.
• The requirement for the affliction to spread ("פָּשֹׂה תִפְשֶׂה") teaches that minor or static blemishes do not render impurity—only significant growth does.
• This law underscores the Torah's emphasis on introspection and repentance, as tzara'at is seen as a divine warning to correct one's ways.

Symbolic Interpretation

The Sages (Talmud, Arachin 16a) teach that tzara'at comes as a consequence of specific sins, including arrogance, stinginess, and lashon hara. The spreading of the affliction serves as a physical manifestation of unchecked spiritual decay, urging the individual to seek atonement and return to righteousness.