Tzaraat, often mistranslated as "leprosy', is discussed in this week's Torah portion of Tazria.
Tzaraat used to strike when a Jew would indulge in gossip or malicious talk. It would present as various whitish spots that would break out on one's body, house or clothes. The Jew in question would then visit a Kohen, a priest, to confirm that he was indeed suffering from tzaraat and then be sent out of the city to undergo an intensive program of repentance and purification rituals.
Interestingly though, even if an educated member of the public were to diagnose the symptoms of tzaraat, the sufferer would STILL need to have the diagnosis confirmed by a member of the priesthood.
Why?
Why did one specifically need a Kohen, a priest, to declare him impure with this afflicted disease?
Kohanim were entrusted with a sacred responsibility. Daily, they would gather in the Temple to bless the nation. They have come to symbolize "men of blessing."
Because they were concerned with the benefit of the nation, they alone had the capability to render judgment in case one sinned.
Hence, an important lesson: Occasionally, one observes improper behavior on the part of another. How tempting to stand in judgment, and to banish the sinner "out of the camp." From the Torah's insistence that the Kohen play a part in the drama, we learn that the only ones qualified to condemn are those who have served their time in the cause of love.
Only someone who has proven himself to be truly dedicated to the welfare of others can dare to criticize, and he is to also then involve himself in the process of the Jew's atonement.
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This week we also bless the new month of Nissan and we do the special Hachodesh reading where it recounts G‑d's communication to Moshe two weeks before the Exodus, regarding the establishment of a Jewish (lunar) calendar, the Paschal Offering, matzah, bitter herbs, and the seder.
The special Hachodesh haftorah is a prophecy regarding the Paschal Offering that will be brought in the Third Holy Temple.
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