Named Appearances and Signs of Tzaraat

Byigudhakohanim
Tzaraat study guide

Named Appearances and Signs of Tzaraat

A concise index of the principal Torah terms used for visible skin appearances, related signs, scalp and beard conditions, and other categories examined by the Kohen.

The Sifra gives a general rule concerning skin nega’im: the appearance does not necessarily create an actual raising or lowering of the skin. Rather, it may merely appear that way to the Kohen’s view—לכל מראה עיני הכהן.

The Torah assigns specific names to different appearances and signs. Rishonim and classical Torah commentators describe these categories and the distinctions between them. The pages below provide focused introductions to those terms.

The task is not to react to a general impression, but to identify the named appearance, the relevant sign, its location, and the Torah process that applies to it.

שאת · Se’et

A named white appearance discussed among the principal shades of skin nega’im.

Study Se’et

ספחת · Sapachat

A secondary or accompanying shade associated with one of the principal named appearances.

Study Sapachat

בהרת · Baheret

The brightest of the principal named white appearances, classically compared to snow.

Study Baheret

מחיה · Michyah

An area of healthy living flesh within the larger appearance.

Study Michyah

שחין · Shechin

A healed inflammatory or boil-like area that forms its own Torah category for examination.

Study Shechin

מכוה · Michvah

A burn area that is examined within the distinct framework given for a fire injury.

Study Michvah

נתק · Netek

The Torah category for a scalp or beard appearance involving hair loss and its own signs and process.

Study Netek and Alopecia

בהק · Bohak

A lighter white appearance that falls below the ordinary threshold of the four principal white appearances.

Study Bohak

פתוך · Patuch

A mixed white-and-reddish appearance requiring attention to the combined visual pattern.

Study Patuch

Whitish-Red Scalp Appearance

A localized scalp category described through a combined white and reddish appearance.

Study the scalp appearance

Garment and Leather Nega’im

A distinct Torah framework applying to qualifying wool, linen, and leather articles.

Study garment nega’im

פסיון · Pisyon

The spread or expansion of an appearance after the relevant period of observation.

Study Pisyon
Source note: Sifra, Parashat Tazria, section 52. This page is a study index and does not replace direct Kohanic examination, full Torah study, or medical evaluation.

Continue the Study

Explore Kehuna’s broader visual study material on the colors, shades, signs, and categories of tzaraat.

Tzaraat Colors and Signs

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