The second sign given at the burning bush reaches a dramatic climax through a miraculous act of healing. After his hand is struck with severe leprosy, Moses is instructed to return it to his garment. Upon removing it, the flesh is completely restored. This powerful display demonstrates that God's authority extends far beyond inanimate objects; He holds absolute control over the human body itself, possessing the power to afflict or heal according to His will [רש״ר הירש, ביאור יש״ר].
The specific manner in which Moses returns his hand to his chest carries multiple layers of meaning. On a physical level, the sudden onset of the leprosy caused immense pain, making it difficult for Moses to fully conceal his hand right away. Instead, he rested it near his chest until the agony subsided before bringing it entirely inside [העמק דבר]. Alternatively, hiding the afflicted hand mirrors the laws of quarantine associated with leprosy, simulating the isolation required for purification [דעת זקנים, הדר זקנים]. From a symbolic standpoint, placing a hand in one's clothing represents idleness and hesitation. God is urging Moses to overcome this tendency, draw his hand outward, and commit to his monumental task without fatigue [מלבי״ם].
A subtle contrast exists between the onset of the disease and its cure. The illness only appeared after Moses withdrew his hand, yet the healing occurred immediately while the hand was still hidden within his clothing. The primary approach among commentators is that this swift recovery reveals a profound spiritual truth: divine goodness and reward arrive much faster than punishment. God rushes to bring healing and blessing, but He delays retribution to grant people the opportunity to repent, as He takes no pleasure in their downfall [רש״י, תורה תמימה, משכיל לדוד, ברכת אשר]. Furthermore, the restored flesh did not merely return to its previous state. It emerged even purer and cleaner than before, as the illness served to purge the body of its impurities [העמק דבר].
This miraculous sign holds deep significance on several fronts. In ancient Egypt, where leprosy was widespread and considered completely incurable, an instantaneous healing would leave a staggering impression on any observer. Moses’ willingness to subject himself to such a terrifying condition simply to validate his message highlights his profound courage and absolute dedication to his mission [קאסוטו].
On a national scale, the purification of the hand foreshadows the future of the Israelites, who are destined to be cleansed from the spiritual impurity of Egypt [הדר זקנים]. The event also imparts a vital lesson about patience to the people. While inactivity can sometimes lead to ruin, there are moments when waiting and refraining from action, specifically when commanded by God, is precisely what brings about salvation [רש״ר הירש].
Finally, the sign offers a deeply personal reassurance to Moses. His initial attempt to intervene and save his brethren years earlier had ended in failure, fear, and exile. This dark period is mirrored by his hand turning diseased. However, just as his hand was ultimately healed and made purer than before, his return to his people now, after his enemies have died, will culminate in unprecedented success and greatness [העמק דבר].