The metzora is spiritually contaminated. He is to remain secluded from society, calling out to others not to come close to him. “Tamei, tamei,” he calls out, notifying people of his present state. The Shelah Ha’Kadosh extends the interpretation of this pasuk by placing a “comma” between the first and second “tamei.” The pasuk would now read, “V’tamei – tamei yikra.” One who disparages others, who calls others tamei is generally projecting his own blemished character. In other words, the model behind most lashon hora is none other than oneself. He who has a character flaw will knowingly and unknowingly project this deficiency on to others. He will look for it, and if he does not find it, he will fabricate it.
An individual sees himself reflected in his friends’ behavior. The Baal Shem Tov says that one who is inherently good perceives good wherever he goes. One who is flawed sees flaws in everyone. Moreover, whatever we see is essentially a message for us regarding our own behavior. Nothing is coincidental. Indeed, we should look for Hashem’s message thoughout our every endeavor.
