NOTES for Lev 14:33-57
At first glance these prescriptions seem to be only concern for the proper sanitary condition of household objects and dwellings: to prevent the spread of an epidemic or plague, the Israelites had to watch for the appearance of all kinds of fungal and other growths on dishes, clothing, and walls.
But if we look more deeply into the text, we can notice here a different foretelling - about the sanctification of the created world, about the fact that it too must belong to God, and be clean and unspoiled. This mystery will be revealed already to the New Testament Church (Rom 8:20-23). For us, this message reveals the need for the sanctification (dedication to God and healing) of the whole world around us - living and nonliving nature, earth, water, air, and also all the objects that surround us: dwellings, household items, dishes, food - everything that God created for Himself and that rightfully belongs to Him.