Parshat Tazria details the procedures for a person afflicted with Tzara’at, including inspections and declarations by a local Kohen (priest). In the 47 pessukim (verses) that discuss the affliction, the Kohen is mentioned 45 times. Could the Torah not have said that a Kohen monitors the entire process?
Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky explains that it is easy for a person to feel alone because part of the healing process includes quarantine. Although the Kohen is the one to declare the affliction initially, he must also be there to compassionately provide support through the seclusion period, as well as the reintegration back into society.
It’s so important that people don’t feel alone that the Torah highlighted it 45 times. As we all go through Covid-19 lock-downs in relative isolation, we are reminded that we need to support each other, especially when times are tough. Sharing the burden of others can transform a challenging experience into a meaningful expression of compassion.
