Tazria (parsha)
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Tazria (תַזְרִיעַ)
Leviticus 12:1 – 13:59
| Book | Leviticus |
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| Parasha # | 27 of 54 |
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| Torah portion | Leviticus 12:1 – 13:59 |
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| Haftarah (Ashkenazi) | 2 Kings 4:42 – 5:19 |
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| Preceded by | Shemini |
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| Followed by | Metzora |
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| Key figures | Priests, Israel |
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Tazria (Hebrew: תַזְרִיעַ, "She shall conceive/bear seed") is the fourth Torah portion of Leviticus, covering Leviticus 12:1–13:59. It deals with ritual impurity after childbirth and the laws of tzara'at (a skin affliction, often mistranslated as leprosy).
Purification After Childbirth
After a woman gives birth to a male, she is unclean for seven days; on the eighth day the child is circumcised. She remains in a state of blood purification for 33 days (40 total). After a female, she is unclean for 14 days and in purification for 66 days (80 total). When the days of purification are fulfilled, she brings a lamb for a burnt offering and a pigeon or turtledove for a sin offering. If she cannot afford a lamb, she brings two pigeons or turtledoves.
Laws of Tzara'at
Tzara'at (צָרַעַת) is a supernatural affliction, not a medical disease. The priest examines the skin: if a bright spot (שְׂאֵת) or scab (סַפַּחַת) or bright spot (בַהֶרֶת) appears, the priest isolates the person for seven days. If the affliction spreads, it is tzara'at. If it does not spread, the person is isolated another seven days. If it fades, the person is clean but washes clothes. Specific rules apply to boils, burns, baldness, and scalls. A person with tzara'at must tear his clothes, let his hair grow, cover his upper lip, and cry "Unclean, unclean!" (Leviticus 13:45). He dwells alone outside the camp. Tzara'at can also affect garments (wool, linen, leather) — a greenish or reddish spot that spreads.
Major themes
- Purity and impurity: The system of tumah and taharah (impurity and purity).
- Tzara'at as divine punishment: Traditionally associated with lashon hara (evil speech).
- Priestly authority: The priest, not a doctor, diagnoses tzara'at.
- Isolation: The social and spiritual consequences of impurity.
Rashi
Rashi explains that tzara'at is a divine punishment for slander. The isolation of the afflicted person mirrors the damage done by his words — he separated people, so he is separated.
Ramban
Ramban explains that tzara'at is a miraculous sign, not a natural disease, and that it affects the house and clothing as well as the body.
Midrashic interpretations
- Vayikra Rabbah 15:5: Miriam was struck with tzara'at for speaking against Moses (Numbers 12).
- Vayikra Rabbah 15:7: The seven days of isolation correspond to the seven days of creation.
- Tanhuma, Tazria 1: Tzara'at is a punishment for ten sins, including murder, false oaths, and sexual immorality.
Haftarah
The haftarah (2 Kings 4:42 – 5:19) tells of Naaman, the Aramean general, who is cured of leprosy by Elisha. Naaman dips seven times in the Jordan and is healed. He declares: "Behold, now I know that there is no God in all the earth, but in Israel" (2 Kings 5:15).
References
- Leviticus 12:1 – 13:59 (Masoretic Text)
- Rashi, Commentary on the Torah
- Ramban, Commentary on the Torah
- Vayikra Rabbah (Midrash)
- Tanhuma, Tazria
- The JPS Torah Commentary: Leviticus (Baruch A. Levine, 1989)
- Etz Hayim: Torah and Commentary (JPS, 2001)
- Sefaria.org, "Tazria" (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.