Leviticus 21 provides instructions for the priests, the descendants of Aaron, regarding their conduct, relationships, and responsibilities to maintain holiness and purity in their service to God.

1-3: Priests are instructed not to defile themselves by coming into contact with a dead body, except for close relatives.

4-6: They must not make bald spots on their heads, cut the edges of their beards, or cut their flesh. They are to be holy and not profane the name of God.

7-8: Priests are forbidden to marry a prostitute, a woman defiled, or a divorced woman. They must marry a virgin to uphold the holiness of the priesthood.

9: A priest’s daughter who defiles herself through prostitution is to be burned, as she defiles her father’s holiness.

10-15: The High Priest, being more set apart, has additional restrictions. He must not uncover his head, tear his clothes, come near any dead body, or make himself unclean, even for his parents. He must not leave the sanctuary or desecrate the sanctuary of God. He is to marry a virgin.

16-24: Descendants of Aaron with physical defects are not allowed to approach to offer sacrifices. However, they can eat the holy and most holy offerings.

Life Applications

1-3: We can learn the importance of maintaining our commitments and responsibilities, even when facing personal loss. The priests’ call to holiness is a reminder for us to uphold our duties with integrity.

4-6: The prohibition against certain physical alterations and the call to holiness teach us the importance of respecting our bodies and living in a way that honors our commitments and values.

7-8: The instructions regarding marriage highlight the importance of making wise and discerning choices in our relationships, ensuring that our partners share and uphold our values.

9: This severe penalty for a priest’s daughter serves as a warning about the serious consequences of compromising our values and integrity.

10-15: The additional restrictions on the High Priest illustrate the concept of greater responsibility coming with greater authority. Those in leadership positions should live to a higher standard.

16-24: The restrictions on priests with physical defects serving in certain capacities may seem harsh, but it underscores the Old Testament emphasis on physical wholeness as a symbol of spiritual wholeness. In a modern context, this invites reflection on how we can ensure inclusivity and support for those with physical challenges, recognizing their inherent value and potential to contribute in meaningful ways.

In applying these lessons to our lives today, it is crucial to interpret them in the context of the New Testament teachings of grace, inclusion, and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which fulfilled the Old Testament law.