Scurvy
“From a root meaning 'to scratch'”
Summary
A skin condition characterized by scurf or scaly eruptions, possibly malignant, that disqualified priests from service and animals from sacrifice.
☩Biblical References
The Hebrew garab, translated 'scurvy,' denotes scurf on the skin, perhaps of a malignant kind. This condition disqualified descendants of Aaron from priestly service and rendered animals unfit for sacrifice. The term yallepheth, 'scabbed,' refers to a similar itching scab or tetter that adheres stubbornly to the skin.
☩Nature of the Condition
The biblical 'scurvy' differs from the modern disease of that name, which results from vitamin C deficiency during long confinement without fresh provisions. The biblical condition refers to visible skin scaliness or roughness that could be scraped off, similar to dandruff or other scaly eruptions.
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Scurvy," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Scurvy," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).