But: in contrast with the person who is pronounced “clean” in the previous verse, this case is considered unclean. The transition word should therefore indicate this contrast.

The primary distinguishing characteristic is the presence of raw flesh (see verse 10), which is mentioned four times in these verses. This expression is used of an open sore where the flesh is no longer covered by skin, but exposed and therefore sensitive. This is taken as a sign of a serious disease that must be regarded as making the person unclean.

If the raw flesh turns again: the verb translated “turn” really indicates “healing” in this context and should be so translated in most languages. However, in others a verb like “to change” may be appropriate to represent the idea of healing and will also be closer to the Hebrew.

Quoted with permission from Péter-Contesse, René and Ellington, John. A Handbook on Leviticus. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1990. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .