Metzora (parsha)
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Metzora (מְּצֹרָע)
Leviticus 14:1 – 15:33
| Book | Leviticus |
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| Parasha # | 28 of 54 |
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| Torah portion | Leviticus 14:1 – 15:33 |
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| Haftarah (Ashkenazi) | 2 Kings 7:3–20 |
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| Preceded by | Tazria |
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| Followed by | Acharei Mot |
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| Key figures | Priests, Israel |
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Metzora (Hebrew: מְּצֹרָע, "One afflicted with tzara'at") is the fifth Torah portion of Leviticus, covering Leviticus 14:1–15:33. It details the purification process for a person healed of tzara'at, tzara'at of houses, and laws of bodily discharges.
Purification of the Metzora
When a person is healed of tzara'at, the priest goes outside the camp. Two birds are taken: one is slaughtered over fresh water in an earthen vessel; the living bird, cedar wood, scarlet, and hyssop are dipped in the blood. The priest sprinkles the blood seven times on the person. The living bird is released into the open field. The person washes clothes, shaves all hair, and bathes; he is clean but remains outside his tent for seven days. On the seventh day, he shaves again, washes, and is clean. On the eighth day, he brings two lambs (or two pigeons/turtledoves if poor) and a meal offering. One lamb is a guilt offering; the priest puts blood on the person's right ear, thumb, and big toe. The other is a burnt offering with the meal offering. "And the priest shall make an atonement for him before the Lord" (Leviticus 14:18).
Tzara'at of Houses
If tzara'at appears on a house (greenish or reddish spots in the walls), the priest examines it. The house is shut for seven days. If the affliction spreads, the affected stones are removed and the house scraped; if it returns, the house is demolished. If it does not return, the house is purified with the same ritual as the person (two birds, cedar, scarlet, hyssop).
Laws of Bodily Discharges
The parasha details laws of zav (זָב, a man with a bodily discharge): he is unclean; anything he sits or lies on becomes unclean; he must count seven clean days and bring offerings. Similar laws apply to a woman with a discharge. The laws of niddah (menstruation) are repeated. "Thus shall you separate the children of Israel from their uncleanness; that they die not in their uncleanness, when they defile My tabernacle that is among them" (Leviticus 15:31).
Major themes
- Purification: The process of returning from impurity to purity.
- Community: The social impact of tzara'at and its cure.
- Holiness: Protecting the Tabernacle from defilement.
- Compassion: Provisions for the poor in the offerings.
Rashi
Rashi explains that the two birds represent the gossip and the silence — one bird is killed (the slander), the other is released (the silence that follows repentance). On the house, Rashi notes that tzara'at on a house is a divine warning.
Ramban
Ramban explains that the purification ritual symbolizes rebirth and renewal.
Midrashic interpretations
- Vayikra Rabbah 16:1: The metzora's isolation is a punishment for separating people through slander.
- Vayikra Rabbah 16:3: The two birds represent the gossip and the one who listens.
- Tanhuma, Metzora 1: Tzara'at on a house is a sign of miserliness.
Haftarah
The haftarah (2 Kings 7:3–20) tells of four lepers who discover that the Aramean army has fled. They bring the news to the city, and the famine ends. This connects to the theme of the metzora and divine deliverance.
References
- Leviticus 14:1 – 15:33 (Masoretic Text)
- Rashi, Commentary on the Torah
- Ramban, Commentary on the Torah
- Vayikra Rabbah (Midrash)
- Tanhuma, Metzora
- The JPS Torah Commentary: Leviticus (Baruch A. Levine, 1989)
- Etz Hayim: Torah and Commentary (JPS, 2001)
- Sefaria.org, "Metzora" (parasha)
Additional Commentary and Discussion
Scholars and rabbis have long debated the nuances of this text. The medieval commentators Rashi, Ramban, Ibn Ezra, and Sforno each offer distinct perspectives, ranging from grammatical analysis to theological reflection. Modern academic scholarship adds historical and literary context, comparing the text with ancient Near Eastern parallels.
In contemporary study, this material is explored through the lenses of halakha, aggadah, and Jewish thought. Synagogues and study groups worldwide engage with these texts weekly, finding new relevance in ancient words. The enduring vitality of this parasha lies in its ability to speak to every generation.
For a full Hebrew text and parallel translations, consult Sefaria.org. The JPS Torah Commentary series provides scholarly annotation. Contributions to expand this article are welcome.
Study Questions
- What are the central themes of this passage?
- How do the classical commentators differ in their interpretation?
- What practical lessons can be drawn for contemporary life?
- How does this connect to the broader narrative of the Torah?
These questions are designed to guide individual study and group discussion. Teachers and students are encouraged to add their own.
Further Reading
For deeper exploration, consult the following resources: Sefaria.org for the full Hebrew and English text; the JPS Torah Commentary series for scholarly annotation; Etz Hayim for a Conservative movement perspective; and the ArtScroll Stone Chumash for an Orthodox perspective. The Talmud and Midrash provide extensive rabbinic discussion.
Community study groups (shiurim) and online courses offer additional opportunities to engage with this material. Contributions to expand and improve this article are welcome.
Summary of Key Points
This parasha/holiday presents a rich tapestry of narrative, law, and theology. Its themes continue to resonate in Jewish life today, informing prayer, study, and practice. The text rewards careful reading and sustained engagement.
Whether approached through traditional commentary or modern scholarship, the material here offers enduring wisdom and challenge. Readers are encouraged to return to the source text and explore it in depth.