Named Appearances and Signs of Tzaraat
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.
שאת · Se’et
A named white appearance discussed among the principal shades of skin nega’im.
Study Se’etספחת · Sapachat
A secondary or accompanying shade associated with one of the principal named appearances.
Study Sapachatבהרת · Baheret
The brightest of the principal named white appearances, classically compared to snow.
Study Baheretמחיה · Michyah
An area of healthy living flesh within the larger appearance.
Study Michyahשחין · Shechin
A healed inflammatory or boil-like area that forms its own Torah category for examination.
Study Shechinמכוה · Michvah
A burn area that is examined within the distinct framework given for a fire injury.
Study Michvahנתק · Netek
The Torah category for a scalp or beard appearance involving hair loss and its own signs and process.
Study Netek and Alopeciaבהק · Bohak
A lighter white appearance that falls below the ordinary threshold of the four principal white appearances.
Study Bohakפתוך · Patuch
A mixed white-and-reddish appearance requiring attention to the combined visual pattern.
Study PatuchWhitish-Red Scalp Appearance
A localized scalp category described through a combined white and reddish appearance.
Study the scalp appearanceGarment and Leather Nega’im
A distinct Torah framework applying to qualifying wool, linen, and leather articles.
Study garment nega’imפסיון · Pisyon
The spread or expansion of an appearance after the relevant period of observation.
Study PisyonContinue the Study
Explore Kehuna’s broader visual study material on the colors, shades, signs, and categories of tzaraat.
Tzaraat Colors and Signs