We are enjoined to send the afflicted leper out of the various camps, so that he be secluded from all people. It is appropriate that this individual who through his slander caused discord and strife among his fellow man, should now be forced to live in seclusion, which will cause him to reflect upon his terrible deeds. The Talmud includes the leper among the various people who because of their unfortunate situations are considered as dead (Nedarim 64b). At first glance it would appear that he is “considered as dead” due to the pain and gravity of his illness. The…
