---
title: 'S2E38: Ep 38 Leprosy and Pathology | From tzaraat to leprosy'
type: 'episode'
url: 'https://doc.social/episodes/s2e38-ep-38-leprosy-and-pathology-from-tzaraat-to-leprosy'
show: 'This Pathological Life'
show_url: 'https://doc.social/podcasts/this-pathological-life'
published: '2021-05-26'
audio: 'unavailable — the host retired the file'
---

# S2E38: Ep 38 Leprosy and Pathology | From tzaraat to leprosy

Leprosy the disease, is rife with myths and false beliefs. In 1863, Hawaii recognised leprosy an official public health threat. In 1865, a law of segregation was enacted forcing sufferers to Kalaupapa on Molokai island. As fate would have i…

## Summary

**Leprosy the disease, is rife with myths and false beliefs.**

In 1863, Hawaii recognised leprosy an official public health threat. In 1865, a law of segregation was enacted forcing sufferers to Kalaupapa on Molokai island.

**As fate would have it, St Damien of Molokai (canonized in 2009) was there to serve. **

His role was that of a model Priest and his feats were super-human. However, local legends are not always a perfect reflection of historical events, and Damien the man can be lost in St Damien the hero.

Leprosy is a terrible disease but it is much less contagious than commonly thought.

Its historical significance may have heightened due to inter-language Biblical translation over centuries.In any event, it is a fascinating disease and one worth knowing more about.

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