Pisqa’ 274³⁷⁵

1. “Be careful” (Dt. 24:8)— this is a proscription.

footnotes: ³⁷⁵ H:268-269;JN2:219..

“Regarding the plague-sign” (Dt. 24:8)— this is the white hair [in the bright spot].

“Of scaly flesh” (Dt. 24:8)— this is an area of livid flesh.2. I might infer only that [the rule applies at the onset of the disease,] before the sign is implicated in uncleanness. But how do I know [to apply it] once the sign has been implicated in uncleanness, and even after the victim is [cleansed and] permitted [to re-enter the camp]? The Teaching states: “To scrupulously follow and do” (Dt. 24:8)— [from the onset till its conclusion].

3. I might infer only that [this rule applies] to plague-signs afflicting humans. How do I know that it applies to plague-signs of garments and plague-signs of houses? The Teaching states: “According to all that the levitical Priests instruct you” (Dt. 24:8)— [including plague-signs afflicting garments and houses as well].

4. I might infer only that [this rule applies] once the victim is confirmed to be unclean. How do I know that it applies [as well] during the period of quarantine [prior to the declaration]? The Teaching states: “As I commanded them” (Dt. 24:8).

5. I might infer only that all the Priests [must agree on a diagnosis]. How do I know that even a diagnosis declared by a minority of them [is valid] ? The Teaching states: “To scrupulously follow” (Dt. 24:8)— [even when only some offer an opinion]. “And do” (Dt. 24:8)— conduct life as usual [while awaiting the decision], and don’t worry that **your plague-sign has fallen out.**³⁷⁶

footnotes: ³⁷⁶ Cf. T. Neg. 3:2. It is forbidden to intentionally excise a plague-sign to avoid quarantine, but if it falls off in the course of normal activities, there is no punishment.