Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Leviticus 13:35 mean?
A: Leviticus 13:35 discusses the laws of tzara'at (often mistranslated as leprosy), a spiritual affliction affecting the skin. This verse states that if a patch of tzara'at spreads after a kohen (priest) had previously declared the person clean, they must be re-examined. According to Rashi, this teaches that even after purification, one must remain vigilant about spiritual growth, as setbacks can occur.
Q: Why is the spreading of tzara'at significant in this verse?
A: The spreading of tzara'at after purification shows that the person's initial repentance or correction of their ways was incomplete. The Talmud (Arachin 16a) teaches that tzara'at comes as a consequence of sins like lashon hara (evil speech). If it spreads again, it indicates deeper spiritual work is needed, as the Rambam explains in Hilchot Tumat Tzara'at.
Q: How does Leviticus 13:35 apply to us today?
A: While we no longer have the physical manifestation of tzara'at today, the Torah's lesson remains relevant. The verse teaches that spiritual growth isn't always linear—sometimes we regress after making progress. The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 16:1) connects this to the importance of consistent self-improvement and sincere repentance, reminding us to persistently correct our ways.
Q: What is the role of the kohen in this verse?
A: The kohen serves as a spiritual guide in determining the status of tzara'at. As Rashi explains on Leviticus 13:2, even if a learned person recognizes tzara'at, only a kohen can declare it impure or pure. This highlights the Torah's system of spiritual authority and the importance of seeking proper guidance in matters of personal growth and repentance.
Q: What can we learn from the concept of tzara'at spreading after purification?
A: The Torah teaches that superficial repentance isn't enough—true change requires deep, lasting transformation. The Sforno notes that if tzara'at returns, it shows the person didn't fully internalize their correction. This reminds us that mitzvot between people (like avoiding lashon hara) require sincere effort, as the Talmud (Yoma 9b) states that the Second Temple was destroyed due to baseless hatred.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Vayikra 13:35) discusses the laws of tzara'at (often mistranslated as "leprosy"), specifically addressing a case where a netek (a discolored patch on the skin) spreads after the afflicted individual has already been declared tahor (ritually pure). This situation requires reevaluation by a kohen (priest) to determine whether the person remains pure or is now impure.
Explanation of Key Terms
Halachic Implications
According to the Talmud (Nega'im 8:1), if the netek spreads after the individual has been declared pure, they must return to the kohen for reassessment. The spreading indicates that the initial declaration of purity may no longer hold, and the person could revert to a state of tum'ah (ritual impurity). This teaches the principle that spiritual and physical purity are dynamic states requiring ongoing vigilance.
Spiritual Lessons from the Midrash
The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 16:1) connects tzara'at to the sin of lashon hara (evil speech). The recurrence of the affliction after purification serves as a reminder that true repentance (teshuvah) requires sustained effort and self-reflection. If the affliction returns, it signals that deeper introspection and correction of one's ways are necessary.
Rambam's Insight on Divine Providence
Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 3:47) interprets tzara'at as a supernatural sign from Hashem, intended to prompt introspection and repentance. The spreading of the netek after purification serves as a warning that the individual must not become complacent but must continue refining their character.