The Unexpected Connection: Leprosy and the Search for Chametz

Our weekly Torah portion discusses the leper, and the date is right before Passover. Could there be a connection between these two themes? What links chametz and leprosy? How does the month of Nissan tie into purity laws that are not relevant today?<\/p>

Although Torah laws may seem poor in one context, they are rich in another—Torah principles touch on many issues that don't seem connected at first glance.<\/p>

To render a judgment on leprosy, the priest must examine, "And the priest shall see the blemish." Here's the question: Is seeing through glass considered seeing, according to Jewish law?<\/p>

When a person faces an immodest scene, but a pane of glass is in between, may they recite a blessing? This is a full topic in Tractate Berakhot.<\/p>

In the laws of sanctifying the new month, witnesses testifying about the moon must see it directly, not through a window. Witnesses who viewed the moon from behind a glazed window cannot give testimony, even if the sight was crystal clear to them.<\/p>

So, says the Rogatchover Gaon, what is to be done about a priest who wears glasses? Without them, he can't see well; with them, does the glass make it so he's not truly seeing the blemish?<\/p>

On checking for chametz, the Talmud also advises not doing so through a window. But must glasses be removed too?<\/p>

Leading halachic authorities decided there's no need to remove glasses. They are considered part of the eyes, not as a barrier between the observer and the object.<\/p>

Thus, when it comes to both checking for chametz and inspecting blemishes, you can relax—work as usual with glasses.<\/p>

Interestingly, according to Melkiel, a priest cannot work in the Temple with glasses because they are considered an "extra garment." If you're a priest hoping to serve in the future Temple, maybe consider laser surgery so you're fit and proper for that holy service, speedily in our days, Amen. <\/p>