Leviticus 21:15

so that he does not defile his offspring among his people, for I am the LORD who sanctifies him."

Study Bible

so that he will not defile
The Hebrew word for "defile" is "טָמֵא" (tamei), which means to make unclean or impure. In the context of Leviticus, this term often refers to ritual impurity, which could result from various actions or conditions that were considered inappropriate for those serving in the priestly role. The priests were held to a higher standard of purity because they were mediators between God and the people. This phrase underscores the importance of maintaining holiness and purity, not just in personal conduct but also in familial relationships, to preserve the sanctity of the priestly line.

his offspring
The Hebrew term "זֶרַע" (zera) is used here, meaning seed or descendants. This word emphasizes the continuity of the priestly line and the importance of maintaining its purity. The priests' offspring were expected to uphold the same standards of holiness, as they were potential future priests. This highlights the generational aspect of holiness and the responsibility of the current generation to ensure the sanctity of the next.

among his people
The phrase "among his people" situates the priest within the broader community of Israel. The priests were not isolated figures but were integral to the spiritual and communal life of the nation. Their actions and the purity of their lineage had implications for the entire community. This reflects the interconnectedness of individual holiness and communal well-being in the biblical worldview.

for I am the LORD
The declaration "I am the LORD" (Hebrew: "אֲנִי יְהוָה", Ani Yahweh) is a powerful reminder of God's authority and the divine origin of these commandments. It serves as a theological foundation for the laws given to the priests. The use of God's covenant name, Yahweh, emphasizes His personal relationship with Israel and His role as the ultimate source of holiness.

who sanctifies him
The Hebrew word "מְקַדְּשׁוֹ" (mekaddesho) means "who sanctifies" or "who makes holy." This term is derived from the root "קָדַשׁ" (kadash), which means to set apart for a sacred purpose. God is the one who sanctifies the priests, setting them apart for His service. This underscores the idea that holiness is not merely a human achievement but a divine gift and calling. The priests' sanctity is a reflection of God's own holiness, and their role is to manifest that holiness to the people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priests
The primary focus of Leviticus 21 is on the priests, specifically the high priest, who is held to a higher standard of holiness due to his role in mediating between God and the people.

2. The Offspring
The verse refers to the offspring of the priests, emphasizing the importance of maintaining purity and holiness within the priestly lineage.

3. The LORD
God Himself is the one who sanctifies the priests, setting them apart for His service and requiring them to adhere to His standards of holiness.

4. The Israelites
The broader community among whom the priests serve and whose spiritual well-being is impacted by the priests' adherence to God's commands.

5. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship where the priests perform their duties, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

Teaching Points

Holiness in Leadership
Leaders in the church are called to a higher standard of holiness, reflecting God's character to those they lead.

Generational Impact
The spiritual integrity of leaders affects not only their immediate ministry but also future generations.

God's Sanctification
It is God who sanctifies and sets apart His people for His purposes. Our role is to respond in obedience to His call.

Community Responsibility
The holiness of leaders impacts the entire community, underscoring the importance of accountability and support within the body of Christ.

Christ as Our High Priest
Jesus fulfills the role of the perfect high priest, and through Him, we are called to live lives of holiness and service.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the call to holiness for the priests in Leviticus 21:15 apply to church leaders today?

2. In what ways can the spiritual integrity of leaders impact future generations within the church?

3. How does understanding that God is the one who sanctifies us influence our approach to personal holiness?

4. What responsibilities do we have as a community of believers to support and hold our leaders accountable to God's standards?

5. How does Jesus' role as our high priest encourage us in our pursuit of holiness and service?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 19:6
This verse speaks of Israel as a kingdom of priests and a holy nation, highlighting the call to holiness for all God's people, not just the Levitical priests.

1 Peter 2:9
This New Testament passage echoes the call to be a royal priesthood, drawing a parallel between the Old Testament priesthood and the calling of all believers in Christ.

Hebrews 7:26
This verse describes Jesus as the perfect high priest, who is holy, blameless, and set apart, fulfilling the ultimate standard of priestly holiness.