Metzora

[itiswritten]

This weeks Torah parsha (portion) is Metzora usually poorly translated as "leper." This is a continuation from last weeks portion "Tazria." There are several strange paradoxes and odd aspects to the guidelines regarding a metzora. Why do you suppose that if the tzara'at (leprosy) completely covers one's body that they are pronounced "tahor" (clean)?

[pioneer]

I am shocked! I've read that portion sooo many times and did not catch that!
Needed a good teacher I suppose. Maybe a nodoz, lol.

[itiswritten]

Yes, it is really a strange ruling. Among the many titles for the Messiah in Judaism is one strange one that refers to "The Leper Messiah." This is one interpretation of Isaiah 52 when it says the Messiah take our infirmities.

The NT speaks of him saying "he who knew no sin became sin." It seems to me that once he was completely covered by the sin "tsara'at of the world that he was then declared clean. What do you think?

I will try to get the portion "Tazria" loaded on the website soon. I will probably wait until I do the teaching on Metzora this week and then add them both at the same time.

I know what you mean. Every year when I read through the portions, I am amazed at things that I never noticed before. I guess that's why we go through it every year.

[pioneer]

The NT speaks of him saying "he who knew no sin became sin." It seems to me that once he was completely covered by the sin "tsara'at of the world that he was then declared clean. What do you think?

I think you are onto something, for sure.

[itiswritten]

The Torah portions Tazria and Metzora are now available for listening.

joewhitten.com/keithmurray/lessonpage/

[flint]

see sin offering in Hebrew