Topical Bible: The High Priest: To Marry a Virgin of Aaron's Family

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the Old Testament, the role of the High Priest was of paramount importance within the religious and communal life of Israel. The High Priest served as the chief religious leader, responsible for performing sacrifices, entering the Holy of Holies on the Day of Atonement, and representing the people before God. Given the sacred nature of this office, the High Priest was subject to specific regulations, including those concerning marriage.

Biblical Mandate

The requirement for the High Priest to marry a virgin from his own people is explicitly stated in the book of Leviticus. Leviticus 21:13-14 provides the directive: "The woman he marries must be a virgin. He must not marry a widow, a divorced woman, or a woman defiled by prostitution, but only a virgin from his own people." This command underscores the importance of purity and holiness in the life of the High Priest, reflecting the sanctity of his office.

Significance of Marrying a Virgin

The stipulation that the High Priest marry a virgin is deeply rooted in the symbolic representation of purity and holiness. A virgin bride symbolizes a new beginning, untainted by previous relationships, which aligns with the High Priest's role as a mediator between God and Israel. The marriage to a virgin also serves to maintain the integrity and sanctity of the priestly lineage, ensuring that the High Priest's descendants remain within the covenant community.

Aaronic Lineage

The requirement that the High Priest marry a virgin from his own people, specifically from the tribe of Levi, further emphasizes the importance of maintaining the purity of the Aaronic lineage. Aaron, the brother of Moses, was the first High Priest, and his descendants were chosen to serve in the priestly office. By marrying within the tribe, the High Priest ensured that his offspring would be legitimate heirs to the priestly duties and privileges.

Cultural and Theological Context

In the cultural context of ancient Israel, marriage was not only a personal union but also a communal and covenantal act. The High Priest's marriage was a reflection of his commitment to God and his people. Theologically, the High Priest's marriage to a virgin from his own people can be seen as a foreshadowing of the relationship between Christ, the ultimate High Priest, and His bride, the Church, which is called to be pure and holy.

Implications for the Priesthood

The marriage regulations for the High Priest highlight the broader biblical theme of holiness and separation for those who serve in God's presence. The High Priest's adherence to these laws was a testament to his dedication to God's commands and his role as a spiritual leader. This requirement also served as a model for the entire priesthood, emphasizing the need for personal and familial purity in those who minister before the Lord.

In summary, the command for the High Priest to marry a virgin from his own people is a reflection of the high standards of holiness and purity required for those who serve in the sacred office. It underscores the importance of maintaining the sanctity of the priestly lineage and serves as a symbol of the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Leviticus 21:13,14
And he shall take a wife in her virginity.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Ancestors of the Blessed virgin
... Anne, the mother of the Blessed Virgin. ... who lived in a community, did not marry but
lived ... religious services, after the manner of the high priest in Jerusalem ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/i ancestors of the blessed.htm

Epistle Lxiii. Limenius, Bishop of Vercell??, Having Died, the See ...
... fallen asleep, she is freed, let her marry whom she ... honoured not Himself to be made
a High Priest, but He ... chief part in the election of the priest; [3716] not ...
/.../ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/epistle lxiii limenius bishop of.htm

part ii
... As a priest, pray above all for the cleansing from sins ... say, do you live worthily
of this high calling? ... He adorned His Mother, the Most Pure Virgin Mary, with ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm