Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Luke 5:12

"And it came to pass, while he was in one of the cities, behold, a man full of leprosy: and when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face, and besought him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean." — Luke 5:12 (ASV)

Leprosy is a general term in Scripture for certain skin diseases. Though not necessarily equivalent to what we know as Hansen’s disease , they were repulsive and resulted in physical, social, and psychological isolation of their victims (cf. Leviticus 13, esp. v.45). Luke is once again careful to note the nature and extent of a disease (“covered with leprosy”). The assumption is that the man has some knowledge of Jesus’ prior miracles. Just as Peter fell at Jesus’ feet for shame at his sinfulness (v.8), this man falls face downward for shame at his uncleanness. The appellation “Lord” (GK 3261) doubtless has less meaning than on Peter’s lips (v.8), meaning here little more than “Sir.” The condition “if you are willing” may express a sense of unworthiness rather than doubt as to Jesus’ ability or kindness.