Definition: It [is] an old leprosy in the skin of his flesh, and the priest shall pronounce him unclean, and shall not shut him up: for he [is] unclean.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 13:11. It's a really important and somewhat unsettling passage about sin and impurity. Here's what it means in simple terms: Essentially, this verse describes a situation where someone has been infected with a serious illness – leprosy – within their body. Let’s unpack it further: “It is an old leprosy in the skin of his flesh…” This refers to a deep, long-standing infection that's affecting the person's entire body. It wasn't just a small spot; it was something that had been going on for a while. “…and the priest shall pronounce him unclean…” This is where it gets serious. The priest, who was responsible for keeping the Israelites safe and holy, recognizes this infection as a significant problem. He declares that the person is “unclean” – meaning they’re not fit to be part of God's community or fulfill their religious duties. “…and shall not shut him up:” This means the priest will not release or allow the person to be treated as a prisoner. They won't let them go free, signifying that this infection is a serious matter that needs to be handled with care and restrictions. “For he [is] unclean.” This is the core of the verse. The person has been infected with a disease that’s considered a sin, and their body is marked as so. It’s a consequence of disobedience or wrongdoing, and it’s seen as a violation of God's law. What does this mean in the context of the Bible? This story is often interpreted as a warning about the importance of keeping the laws and rules given to us by God. It highlights that sin can have lasting consequences, and we must be careful not to let it affect our lives or our relationships with others. It’s a reminder that we are all susceptible to temptation and wrongdoing, and that it's important to remain pure and right according to God's standards. Important Note: This story is complex and has been debated throughout history. It’s often seen as a symbolic representation of sin, but its exact meaning remains open to interpretation. --- Do you want me to: Explain the historical context of this verse? Discuss what it might symbolize in a broader sense (like temptation or disobedience)?