LEPROSY
Leprosy is mentioned thirty-three times in the NASB. Tsara`ath, the Hebrew word for leprosy, is also translated as mold or mildew in clothing and buildings.

Leprosy is one Biblical disease that is interpreted symbolically. But, the symbolism of leprosy as sin does not go far enough. It is accurate to say that leprosy symbolizes sin, but it must also be said that religion is sin. With this understanding, we can see clearly how God feels about religion. We can also see clearly why we should avoid contact with religion and religious people.

Historically it was believed that physical contact with leprous people would result in leprosy. That is why known lepers were outcasts from the general society. They were call “unclean” and people without leprosy were very careful to avoid contact with them. It was considered to be a contagious curse.

Just like other diseases, Tsara`ath is a symbolic term for religion. The disgusting, pervasive, intrusive nature of religion is represented by its destructive effects on clothing and buildings.

STUDY TIP: See this link for more about leprosy in the Bible.

Medically speaking, Hanson’s disease (i.e. leprosy) is not a terminal disease and it can be cured. Because the people of Bible times did not know that it could be cured or that it was not contagious, it was a very good choice of disease used to represent the sin of religion. Religious people would do well to consider the vivid imagery that religion symbolizes.

As bad as it may be, Hansen’s disease and the sin of religion are curable. We see this in story of Jesus healing a leper, but we must remember that it was God’s spoken word, represented by Jesus reaching out his hand, that healed them from the sin of religion.