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The metzora is called this because the name is an acronym for motzi ra, (he) brings forth evil (speech). In the Talmud Arachin 16b, Chazal explain why the metzora is the only one of the tameiim, individuals who are subject to ritual contamination, who is isolated from the community. He was the cause of divisiveness between man and his fellowman; thus, he should also be separated from the society which he slandered. This presents a question. The first person to speak lashon hora, slanderous speech, was Chavah, who repeated the serpent’s critique of the Almighty. Exploiting a ploy favored by…

One would think that enough has been said and written about lashon hara, slanderous speech. Everyone knows what it is, the seriousness of this sin and the tragic effect it has on those involved. Yet, this does not seem to prevent the baal lashon hara, slanderer, from plying his trade. Is there anything left to be said that might have an effect on the baal lashon hara? There might be. As punishment for the baal lashon hara’s evil words, he is sent away from the community to live in solitude until that day that his tzaraas, spiritually inflicted leprosy, is…

Rashi explains that the reason for the declaration, Tamei!, Tamei!, is that it is a benefit for others, warning them not to come in contact with the spiritually defiled metzora. In the Talmud Shabbos 67a, Chazal explain that when he notifies the “world” that he is tamei, people will hopefully take pity and pray for him. While it is clearly commendable, how do Chazal derive from the words, Tamei, Tamei, Yikra that the metzora should encourage others to pray for him? It makes more sense that these words are a warning, so that people will not err and come in contact…