Leviticus 13:54
New International Version
he shall order that the spoiled article be washed. Then he is to isolate it for another seven days.

New Living Translation
the priest will order the object to be washed and then quarantined for seven more days.

English Standard Version
then the priest shall command that they wash the thing in which is the disease, and he shall shut it up for another seven days.

Berean Standard Bible
the priest is to order the contaminated article to be washed and isolated for another seven days.

Berean Literal Bible
then the priest shall command, and they shall wash that in which is the plague, and he shall shut it up a second seven days.

King James Bible
Then the priest shall command that they wash the thing wherein the plague is, and he shall shut it up seven days more:

New King James Version
then the priest shall command that they wash the thing in which is the plague; and he shall isolate it another seven days.

New American Standard Bible
then the priest shall order them to wash the thing in which the mark occurs, and he shall quarantine it for seven more days.

NASB 1995
then the priest shall order them to wash the thing in which the mark occurs and he shall quarantine it for seven more days.

NASB 1977
then the priest shall order them to wash the thing in which the mark occurs, and he shall quarantine it for seven more days.

Legacy Standard Bible
then the priest shall command them to wash the thing in which the mark occurs, and he shall isolate it for seven more days.

Amplified Bible
then the priest shall order that they wash the thing in which the mark occurs, and he shall quarantine it for seven more days.

Berean Annotated Bible
the priest is to order the contaminated article to be washed and isolated for another seven days.

Christian Standard Bible
the priest is to order whatever is contaminated to be washed and quarantined for another seven days.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
the priest is to order whatever is contaminated to be washed and quarantined for another seven days.

American Standard Version
then the priest shall command that they wash the thing wherein the plague is, and he shall shut it up seven days more:

Contemporary English Version
he will tell you to wash the clothing or leather and put it aside for another seven days,

English Revised Version
then the priest shall command that they wash the thing wherein the plague is, and he shall shut it up seven days more:

GOD'S WORD® Translation
he must order the area to be washed and put the clothing in a separate place for seven more days.

Good News Translation
he shall order that it be washed and put away for another seven days.

International Standard Version
then the priest is to command that they wash whatever has the contagion and then isolate it for seven days a second time.

NET Bible
the priest is to command that they wash whatever has the infection and quarantine it for another seven days.

New Heart English Bible
then the priest shall command that they wash the thing in which the plague is, and he shall isolate it seven more days.

Webster's Bible Translation
Then the priest shall command that they wash the thing in which the plague is, and he shall shut it up seven days more:
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
the priest is to order the contaminated article to be washed and isolated for another seven days.

World English Bible
then the priest shall command that they wash the thing that the plague is in, and he shall isolate it seven more days.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
then the priest has commanded, and they have washed that in which the plague [is], and he has shut it up [for] a second seven days.

Berean Literal Bible
then the priest shall command, and they shall wash that in which is the plague, and he shall shut it up a second seven days.

Young's Literal Translation
then hath the priest commanded, and they have washed that in which the plague is, and he hath shut it up a second seven days.

Smith's Literal Translation
And the priest commanded, and they washed that in which was the stroke, and he shut it up seven days, the second time.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
He shall give orders, and they shall wash that part wherein the leprosy is, and he shall shut it up other seven days.

Catholic Public Domain Version
he shall instruct them, and they shall wash whatever has the leprosy in it, and he shall close it up for another seven days.

New American Bible
he shall give orders to have the infected article washed and then quarantined for another seven days.

New Revised Standard Version
the priest shall command them to wash the article in which the disease appears, and he shall put it aside seven days more.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Then the priest shall command that they wash the thing in which is the plague and he shall observe it seven days more;

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
The Priest shall command and they shall wash anything that has the plague in it, and the Priest shall seclude it seven days more:
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
then the priest shall command that they wash the thing wherein the plague is, and he shall shut it up seven days more.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
then the priest shall give directions, and one shall wash that on which there may have been the plague, and the priest shall set it aside a second time for seven days.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Laws about Mildew
53But when the priest reexamines it, if the mildew has not spread in the fabric, weave, knit, or leather article, 54the priest is to order the contaminated article to be washed and isolated for another seven days. 55After it has been washed, the priest is to reexamine it, and if the mildewed article has not changed in appearance, it is unclean. Even though the mildew has not spread, you must burn it, whether the rot is on the front or back.…

Cross References
the priest is to order

Leviticus 14:4
the priest shall order that two live clean birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop be brought for the one to be cleansed.

Leviticus 14:5
Then the priest shall command that one of the birds be slaughtered over fresh water in a clay pot.

Leviticus 14:36
The priest must order that the house be cleared before he enters it to examine the mildew, so that nothing in the house will become unclean. After this, the priest shall go in to inspect the house.
the contaminated article

Leviticus 15:12
Any clay pot that the man with the discharge touches must be broken, and any wooden utensil must be rinsed with water.

Leviticus 15:4
Any bed on which the man with the discharge lies will be unclean, and any furniture on which he sits will be unclean.

Numbers 19:15
and any open container without a lid fastened on it is unclean.
to be washed

Leviticus 14:9
On the seventh day he must shave off all his hair—his head, his beard, his eyebrows, and the rest of his hair. He must wash his clothes and bathe himself with water, and he will be clean.

Leviticus 15:13
When the man has been cleansed from his discharge, he must count off seven days for his cleansing, wash his clothes, and bathe himself in fresh water, and he shall be clean.

Numbers 19:19
The man who is ceremonially clean is to sprinkle the unclean person on the third day and on the seventh day. After he purifies the unclean person on the seventh day, the one being cleansed must wash his clothes and bathe in water, and that evening he will be clean.
and isolated for another seven days

Leviticus 14:8
The one being cleansed must wash his clothes, shave off all his hair, and bathe with water; then he will be ceremonially clean. Afterward, he may enter the camp, but he must remain outside his tent for seven days.

Numbers 12:14-15
But the LORD answered Moses, “If her father had but spit in her face, would she not have been in disgrace for seven days? Let her be confined outside the camp for seven days; after that she may be brought back in.” / So Miriam was confined outside the camp for seven days, and the people did not move on until she was brought in again.

Leviticus 14:38
the priest shall go outside the doorway of the house and close it up for seven days.
Matthew 8:2-4
Suddenly 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.”

Luke 17:12-14
As 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.

Mark 1:40-44
Then 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. …

2 Kings 5:1-14
Now 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.” …


Treasury of Scripture

Then the priest shall command that they wash the thing wherein the plague is, and he shall shut it up seven days more:

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Article Command Commanded Contaminated Disease Isolate Mark Occurs Order Orders Plague Priest Quarantine Second Seven Shut Sore Time Wash Washed Wherein
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Leviticus 13
1. The laws whereby the priest is to be guided in discerning the leprosy.












the priest is to order
In ancient Israel, priests held a dual role of spiritual leaders and health inspectors. They were responsible for diagnosing and managing cases of skin diseases and mildew, which were considered both health and ritual purity issues. This reflects the theocratic nature of Israelite society, where religious and civil duties were intertwined. The priest's authority in these matters underscores the importance of holiness and purity in the community.

the contaminated article
The term "contaminated article" refers to clothing or fabric that has been affected by mildew or mold, which could render it ceremonially unclean. In the ancient Near East, clothing was a valuable commodity, often made from wool, linen, or leather. The presence of contamination in such items was not only a health concern but also a spiritual one, as it could symbolize sin or impurity.

to be washed
Washing was a common purification ritual in the Old Testament, symbolizing the removal of impurity or sin. This practice is seen throughout the Levitical laws and is echoed in the New Testament, where baptism represents spiritual cleansing. The act of washing the contaminated article signifies an attempt to restore it to a state of purity, reflecting the broader biblical theme of redemption and restoration.

and isolated for another seven days
Isolation was a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of contamination, whether physical or spiritual. The number seven is significant in the Bible, often representing completeness or perfection. The seven-day period of isolation mirrors the creation week and is a recurring motif in Levitical laws, emphasizing the need for thoroughness in achieving purity. This practice also foreshadows the concept of sanctification, where believers are set apart and made holy through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Priest
In ancient Israel, priests were responsible for maintaining the holiness of the community, including diagnosing and managing skin diseases and contamination.

2. Contaminated Article
This refers to clothing or fabric that has been infected with a form of mildew or mold, which could render it ceremonially unclean.

3. Isolation
A period of separation to prevent the spread of contamination and to determine if the article could be cleansed or needed to be destroyed.

4. Seven Days
A significant period in biblical terms, often associated with completeness and divine order.

5. The Tabernacle
While not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of Leviticus involves the tabernacle, where the presence of God dwelt, and where purity was essential.
Teaching Points
Holiness and Purity
God’s instructions for dealing with contamination reflect His desire for His people to be holy and set apart. This calls us to examine areas of our lives that may need cleansing.

The Role of Spiritual Leaders
Just as priests were responsible for guiding the community in matters of purity, spiritual leaders today are called to shepherd their congregations in truth and holiness.

The Importance of Isolation
Isolation in this context was a protective measure. In our spiritual lives, we may need to isolate ourselves from influences that could lead us away from God.

The Significance of Seven Days
The use of seven days for isolation underscores the importance of patience and thoroughness in dealing with sin and impurity in our lives.

God’s Provision for Restoration
The process of washing and waiting shows God’s provision for restoration and cleansing, pointing to the ultimate cleansing through Christ.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Leviticus 13:54?

2. How does Leviticus 13:54 illustrate God's concern for community health and purity?

3. What steps are prescribed in Leviticus 13:54 for handling contaminated garments?

4. How can we apply the principles of Leviticus 13:54 to modern-day hygiene practices?

5. What does Leviticus 13:54 teach about the importance of following God's instructions?

6. How does Leviticus 13:54 connect with New Testament teachings on spiritual cleanliness?

7. What does Leviticus 13:54 reveal about ancient Israelite views on disease and purity?

8. How does Leviticus 13:54 reflect God's concern for community health and safety?

9. Why is the priest involved in diagnosing skin diseases in Leviticus 13:54?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Leviticus 13?

11. What does the Bible mention about leprosy?

12. Why did only one healed leper return to thank Jesus?

13. Does commanding people with suspicious spots to remain quarantined align with modern understandings of infectious diseases (Leviticus 13:4-5)?

14. How could priests with no formal medical training accurately diagnose skin diseases (Leviticus 13:1-8)?
What Does Leviticus 13:54 Mean
the priest is to order

The verse begins with a clear reminder that the priest—not the sufferer—makes the call.

• God entrusts spiritual leaders with discernment: “You must distinguish between the holy and the common, between the unclean and the clean” (Leviticus 10:10).

• His authority comes from the Lord, so obedience to the priest equates to obedience to God’s word (Deuteronomy 17:10–11).

• In Christ, the ultimate High Priest, we see this pattern fulfilled: “We have a great High Priest…Jesus the Son of God” (Hebrews 4:14).


the contaminated article

This law addresses mildew‐like growth in cloth, leather, or woven goods—anything “touched” by uncleanness (Leviticus 13:47–49).

• The article itself is not alive, yet it can still transmit impurity, illustrating how sin’s corruption can spread through even inanimate channels (Haggai 2:13; 1 Corinthians 5:6).

• Garments often picture outer conduct: “Keep your garments white” (Ecclesiastes 9:8). A stained cloak hints at a heart needing renewal (Jude 23).


to be washed

Before judgment is finalized, God provides a chance for cleansing.

• Water signifies God’s word washing away defilement: “that He might sanctify her, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word” (Ephesians 5:26).

• Physical laundering also protected the camp’s health (Deuteronomy 23:14).

• Ultimately, cleansing points to salvation’s inner washing: “He saved us…through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:5).


and isolated

Even after washing, the item must be set apart.

• Separation prevents further spread: “Put out of the camp every leper…so they do not defile their camp” (Numbers 5:2–3).

• Spiritually, believers practice holy distance from unrepentant sin: “Come out from among them and be separate” (2 Corinthians 6:17).

• Isolation is temporary and purposeful—not rejection but protection, giving space for true assessment (Leviticus 13:4–5).


for another seven days

Seven days symbolize a complete, God-ordained period (Genesis 2:2–3).

• Patience allows time for hidden contamination to appear or for full restoration (Leviticus 13:6).

• Israel circled Jericho seven days before victory (Joshua 6:14–15); likewise, waiting here anticipates either cleansing or decisive action.

• The final review (Leviticus 13:55) mirrors future judgment when Christ will expose every work (1 Corinthians 4:5).


summary

Leviticus 13:54 shows God’s balanced approach: delegated authority inspects, corruption is identified, cleansing is offered, separation safeguards the community, and a complete period ensures thorough evaluation. The verse calls us to submit to godly oversight, invite the cleansing word of Christ, stay distinct from defiling influences, and wait on the Lord’s timing for full restoration or decisive judgment.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
the priest
הַכֹּהֵ֔ן (hak·kō·hên)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3548: Priest

is to order
וְצִוָּה֙ (wə·ṣiw·wāh)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6680: To lay charge (upon), give charge (to), command, order

the
אֲשֶׁר־ (’ă·šer-)
Pronoun - relative
Strong's 834: Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that

contaminated [article]
הַנָּ֑גַע (han·nā·ḡa‘)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5061: Mark -- a blow, a spot

to be washed
וְכִ֨בְּס֔וּ (wə·ḵib·bə·sū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Conjunctive perfect - third person common plural
Strong's 3526: To trample, to wash

and isolated
וְהִסְגִּיר֥וֹ (wə·his·gî·rōw)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5462: To shut up, to surrender

for another
שֵׁנִֽית׃ (šê·nîṯ)
Number - ordinal feminine singular
Strong's 8145: Second (an ordinal number)

seven
שִׁבְעַת־ (šiḇ·‘aṯ-)
Number - masculine singular construct
Strong's 7651: Seven, seven times, a week, an indefinite number

days.
יָמִ֖ים (yā·mîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 3117: A day


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OT Law: Leviticus 13:54 Then the priest shall command that they (Le Lv Lev.)
Leviticus 13:53
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