Or: this marks the introduction of the second example. In some languages it may be better to say “Or, to take another example…” or simply “Another case:….”

Unclean thing: in Leviticus the term unclean or “impure” is extremely important. It does not have to do primarily with physical cleanliness but is basically a religious idea (see chapters 11–15). But this ritual uncleanness may be transmitted by physical contact or in some cases simply by sight. The general term an unclean thing is clarified by specific examples in the text. It may be (1) the carcass of an unclean beast, that is, a dead animal that is wild, (2) a carcass of unclean cattle, that is, a dead animal that is tame (domesticated) or (3) a carcass of unclean swarming things, that is, the body of an animal classed by the Jews as “swarmers” (mouse, weasel, lizard or other reptile, and perhaps also insects). Because of the diversity of this last group, it is difficult to translate in most languages. New International Version has translated accurately but awkwardly “unclean creatures that move along the ground.” An American Translation, New English Bible, and Moffatt apparently understand the term as being limited to “reptiles.” And Good News Translation has avoided the problem by grouping all the categories together under the heading “a dead animal,” although this may be considered too general in some languages.

And it is hidden from him: most scholars take this to mean that the dead body is touched accidentally or unintentionally. But New English Bible interprets it to mean that the person performing this action conceals it from others, “and it is concealed by him although he is aware of it.” This interpretation, however, is unlikely and very few versions follow it. It is better to translate “without being aware of it at the time” (Moffatt). Compare 4.13.

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 .