Question 1

What does Leviticus 21:13 mean?

Accepted Answer

Leviticus 21:13 states that a priest must marry a woman who is a virgin. This instruction sets a specific requirement for whom the priest is allowed to take as a wife, emphasizing her unmarried and untouched status. In this part of Leviticus, God is giving Moses detailed rules for the priests of Israel, especially the high priest. The focus is on maintaining ritual purity and setting priests apart from the rest of the people. This verse comes in a section that lists qualifications for the priest’s family life, showing the seriousness of the priest’s role and the high standards expected.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 21:13

Accepted Answer

The word "take" (לָקַח, laqach) means to take or to acquire, often used for marriage. Here, it emphasizes the priest’s active choice in selecting a wife. The word "wife" (אִשָּׁה, ishah) simply means a woman or wife, but in this context, it makes clear that the instruction is about marriage, not just any relationship. The word "virginity" (בְּתוּלִים, betulim) refers to the state of being a virgin. This word underlines that the woman has not had sexual relations, which was seen as important for ritual and symbolic purity in the priesthood.

Question 3

Why Leviticus 21:13 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that the priesthood had stricter marriage rules than the general population, highlighting the unique responsibilities and expectations for those serving at the altar. It shows that the priest’s personal life was considered a matter of public and spiritual concern, not just a private decision. Understanding this requirement helps explain later passages where the purity of the priesthood and their families is a recurring theme, connecting to the broader biblical idea of holiness and separation for God’s service.

Leviticus 21:13 (KJV)