And the garment, either warp, or woof, or whatsoever thing of skin it be, which thou shalt wash, if the plague be departed from them, then it shall be washed the second time, and shall be clean.
LEVITICUS 13:58KJVWhat does Leviticus 13:58 mean?
Leviticus 13:58 explains that if a garment made of fabric or leather has been washed and the disease or stain is gone, the garment should be washed a second time and will then be considered clean. This verse gives a specific step for making sure clothing is free from ritual impurity after a suspected infection.
In this part of Leviticus, God is giving Moses instructions for the priests about how to handle garments that might have a kind of mold or mildew, which the text calls a "plague." The priests are told how to inspect, wash, and re-examine these items to decide if they are safe to use again. The verse shows the careful process for restoring something to a clean state in the community.
The Hebrew behind Leviticus 13:58
- "garment" (בֶּגֶד, beged): This word means any kind of clothing or fabric, showing that the rule applies broadly to what people wear or use.
- "plague" (נֶגַע, negaʿ): This term refers to a mark, spot, or infection, not just a disease but any visible sign of impurity.
- "wash" (כָּבַס, kavas): This verb means to wash or launder, pointing to a thorough cleaning process, not just a light rinse.
- "clean" (טָהֵר, taher): This word means ritually pure, making clear the concern is not just physical cleanliness but also readiness for religious life.
Why Leviticus 13:58 matters
- Leviticus 13:58 clarifies that ritual purity for garments required not just removal of visible stains but a repeated washing, emphasizing thoroughness and care.
- The verse shows the priests’ role as inspectors and guardians of community health, not just leaders in worship.
- This instruction fits into a larger section about purity laws, helping the reader see how everyday objects could affect spiritual and communal life in ancient Israel.