Hold Your Tongue!

By: Sondra Oster Baras
April 15, 2016
Only a priest can diagnose Tzaraat
Only a priest can diagnose Tzaraat

So begins a detailed description of the rituals involved with purifying someone who has been afflicted with Biblical Leprosy.

The original Hebrew word used in the Bible for this affliction is Zaraat, which is commonly translated as leprosy. As all modern individuals are aware, however, leprosy is a medical affliction which, since the invention of antibiotics, is fully treatable medically. In referring to Zaraat, the Bible discusses a purely spiritual cleansing, performed by the priest. It is clear, therefore, that the word leprosy is actually a mistranslation of the word Zaraat and that the disease referred to in the Bible, although similar in its physical manifestations to leprosy or some other skin disease, is actually a spiritual ailment requiring a purely spiritual cure.

Although the Bible does not mention in these chapters in Leviticus what the cause of such an affliction would be, we do have a hint of the cause in a later chapter. “Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses because of the Cushite he had married… And the anger of the Lord was kindled against them… behold, Miriam was leprous, like snow” (Numbers 12:1-10).

Miriam was stricken by God with this same skin disease, clearly as a punishment for having spoken ill of her brother Moses.

God does not treat gossip lightly. As men and women created in His image, we are commanded to love our neighbor as ourselves and to treat everyone with respect. This includes not maligning them, even in a light, gossipy way. Our sages have said that if one shames another person in public it is as if he has murdered him. The import of this statement is that a person’s honor, reputation, and dignity are often as important to him as his physical life. When you damage a person’s reputation, you are destroying an important part of his humanity. Similarly, when we gossip about people, we tarnish their reputation and cast a shadow upon their motivations or actions. When Miriam criticized Moses’ relationship with his wife, she did just that, and she was severely punished.

Zaraat was seen not just as a physical ailment but as a manifestation of a spiritual condition. Those afflicted with Zaraat were isolated from the community until they underwent a purification ritual performed by a Kohen (priest). This practice highlights the belief that Zaraat was more than a medical condition; it was a sign of a spiritual problem that required a spiritual solution. The role of the Kohen was crucial, as he acted as a mediator between the afflicted person and God, performing the necessary rituals to cleanse and reintegrate the individual into the community.

Biblical References and Analysis

The book of Leviticus provides a detailed description of the rituals associated with Zaraat. Leviticus 14:2 outlines the process by which a person is declared clean by the Kohen. This includes specific offerings and rituals that symbolize the cleansing of the individual’s spirit. The story of Miriam in Numbers 12:1-10 serves as a critical example of Zaraat as a consequence of unethical speech. Miriam’s punishment for speaking against Moses illustrates the severe consequences of gossip and slander in the biblical narrative.

Theological Implications

The story of Zaraat emphasizes the connection between our words and our spiritual well-being. In Jewish tradition, Lashon Hara (evil speech) is considered a grave sin. It is believed that our words have the power to harm not only others but also ourselves spiritually. The affliction of Zaraat acts as a physical reminder of this spiritual truth. By understanding the severity of Lashon Hara, we are reminded to speak with kindness and respect, upholding the dignity of others as creations in the image of God.

Moral and Ethical Lessons

Our sages have long taught the importance of speech in maintaining a just and compassionate society. The statement that shaming someone publicly is akin to murder underscores the profound impact of our words. When we tarnish someone’s reputation, we inflict deep harm on their sense of self and their place within the community. The story of Miriam and Moses teaches us that even seemingly minor gossip can have significant consequences, emphasizing the need for vigilance in our speech.

Contemporary Applications

In today’s digital age, the lessons from Zaraat and Miriam’s story are more relevant than ever. With the rapid spread of information (and misinformation) online, gossip and defamation can cause widespread harm in an instant. We must be vigilant in avoiding negative speech and strive to foster a culture of positivity and respect. By practicing mindful communication, we can prevent the harm caused by gossip and promote a more compassionate society.

Personal Reflections and Stories

Reflecting on personal experiences with gossip can help us appreciate the importance of positive speech. For instance, consider a time when a harmful rumor affected someone you know. How did it impact their reputation and relationships? Conversely, think of a time when kind words uplifted someone during a difficult period. Sharing stories of individuals or communities that prioritize respectful communication can inspire others to do the same.

Conclusion

Zaraat teaches us about the profound impact of our words on our spiritual and social well-being. By guarding our speech and promoting positive communication, we can cultivate a more respectful and compassionate society. The lessons from the biblical accounts of Zaraat remind us that our words matter deeply and that we have a responsibility to use them wisely.

Sondra Oster Baras

Sondra Oster Baras was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio in an Orthodox Jewish home. Upon completing her B.A. from Barnard, she obtained her J.D. at Columbia University’s School of Law. A longtime resident of Samaria, in 1998 she opened the Israel office of Christian Friends of Israeli Communities.

Taken from Shabbat Shalom by Sondra Oster Baras.

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