Definition: And the priest shall see [him]: and, behold, [if] the rising [be] white in the skin, and it have turned the hair white, and [there be] quick raw flesh in the rising;
Explanation: Okay, letās break down this passage from Leviticus 13:10. Itās a really strange and unsettling verse, and it's packed with symbolism! Hereās an explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: A Test of Faith & Holiness This verse describes a very specific and unusual test for priests ā essentially, a trial to see if they are truly pure and devoted to God. Itās about showing your faith through your actions, and it's not about looking good; itās about being right with God. Letās break down the parts: āAnd the priest shall see [him]ā : This refers to a specific priest who is designated for this test. It's about someone chosen specifically to be examined. āand, behold, [if] the rising [be] white in the skinā : This is the crucial part. "Rising" here means appearing bright or glowing. The word ārisingā is key ā it suggests something thatās changing . So, the priest's skin is changing color. āand [it have] turned the hair whiteā : The hair is changing from its natural color to a pale, almost ghostly white. This symbolizes a complete transformation of their appearance, reflecting a spiritual change. āand [there be] quick raw flesh in the risingā : This is where it gets really unsettling. "Raw flesh" means that the flesh is not fully developed or mature. It's unripe and not yet fully formed . This suggests that the priestās spirit may be flawed, incomplete, or lacking in a vital quality ā like faith or purity. The Meaning & Symbolism (It's More Than Just a Physical Appearance) Now, hereās where it gets deeper: Symbol of a Spirit Test: Throughout much of the Old Testament, this test was a symbolic way for God to see if people were truly committed to following His laws and principles. It wasn't just about outward appearance; it was about inner transformation. "The rising" - A Moment of Revelation: The verse suggests that this is a momentary reveal ā a glimpse into the priestās true self. Itās not a permanent state, but a snapshot of a moment of intense spiritual scrutiny. āQuick raw fleshā - Imperfection & Lack of Perfection: This part emphasizes that the priest wasn't fully cleansed or perfected. It points to a potential for imperfection and a lack of complete devotion. Itās a reminder that even those who are righteous can be flawed. Important Note: The verse is often interpreted as an anomaly ā a strange and unsettling event that was part of a larger, symbolic narrative. It's not meant to be taken literally; it's a vivid illustration of the need for constant spiritual growth and purity. In short, this verse describes a moment where a priestās skin transforms into a pale, unnatural hue, suggesting a potential for imperfection or a lack of complete devotion. --- Disclaimer: Iāve provided an explanation based on common interpretations of biblical passages. Different theological perspectives can offer different understandings of the meaning behind these verses. Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss a particular aspect of this passage in more detail (e.g., its historical context)?