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Book of Leviticus - Chapter 13 - Verse 21

13:21
But if the priest look on it, and, behold, there be no white hairs therein, and if it be not lower than the skin, but be somewhat dark; then the priest shall shut him up seven days:

Meaning

In this verse, the priest is instructed to examine a skin condition on a person and determine if it is a serious skin disease or not. The presence of white hairs in the affected area along with the condition being lower than the skin are signs of leprosy, which was a feared and highly contagious disease in ancient times. If the priest finds no white hairs and the affected area is somewhat dark but not lower than the skin, the person is to be isolated for seven days. This period of isolation is to allow for observation and to prevent the potential spread of disease to others. During this time, the priest will continue to monitor the person's condition to determine if it worsens, improves, or remains stable. This process reflects the meticulous attention to health and hygiene in the Biblical times, as well as the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment of illnesses.

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