Deuteronomy 24:8-9

(10) LAWS OF LEPROSY TO BE OBSERVED (Deuteronomy 24:8-9)

8 Take heed in the plague of leprosy, that thou observe diligently, and do according to all that the priests the Levites shall teach you: as I commanded them, so ye shall observe to do. 9 Remember what Jehovah thy God did unto Miriam, by the way as ye came forth out of Egypt.

THOUGHT QUESTIONS 24:8, 9

416.

Read Leviticus Chapter s 13 and 14 to understand what the priests and Levites would teach concerning leprosy.

417.

What possible two-fold reason could there be in mentioning Miriam in these verses?

AMPLIFIED TRANSLATION 24:8, 9

8 Take heed in the plague of leprosy, that you watch diligently, and do according to all that the Levitical priests shall teach you, As I commanded them, so you shall be watchful and do. [Leviticus 13:14-15.]

9 Remember [earnestly] what the Lord your God did to Miriam by the way, after you had come out of Egypt. [Numbers 12:10.]

COMMENT 24:8, 9

Laws concerning leprosy are found in Leviticus 13:14. Note there that the priests are again and again involved in testing for leprosy and the cleansing process. Cf. Matthew 8:4, Moses here simply exhorts them to heed the priests instructionsinstructions which God had given them.

The case of Miriam is probably cited not only because Miriam became leprous (Num. ch. 12), but because she became such as a result of her disobedience and disrespect for Moses-' authority. As disobedience had caused her leprosy, disobedience could prevent the heating of leprosy. And as God, being merciful, healed Miriam, so could he heal them if they would do according to all that the Levites shall teach you.