Leviticus 21:8

Leviticus 21:8 highlights the profound importance of the priest's holy status within ancient Israel. This verse commands the community to treat the priest as sanctified, not merely out of respect for the individual, but because of his sacred role in ministering before God. His unique function of offering "the bread of thy God" — referring to the various sacrifices and offerings presented on the altar — necessitates that he be regarded as holy. The ultimate basis for this command is God's own holy nature and His role as the one who sanctifies His people.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in Leviticus (chapters 21-22) that details specific laws concerning the priests of Israel, particularly Aaron and his sons. These regulations cover their physical purity, marital status, and conduct, all designed to ensure their fitness for service in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. The strictness of these laws underscores the seriousness of their role as intermediaries between God and the people. The community's responsibility to "sanctify him" (the priest) means they must uphold and respect his consecrated status, ensuring he remains separate and dedicated for divine service.

Key Themes

• The Priest's Sacred Role and Consecration: The priest's holiness is directly tied to his function. By offering "the bread of thy God," he handles sacred things and performs rituals essential for the people's atonement and worship. This proximity to the divine requires a corresponding separation and purity. The community was therefore obligated to treat him as set apart for God's purposes.
• God's Holiness as the Foundation: The concluding phrase, "for I the LORD, which sanctify you, [am] holy," is the bedrock of all holiness requirements in Leviticus. It emphasizes that the priest's holiness, and indeed the holiness of the entire nation, is not self-derived but originates from God's own perfect and transcendent nature. God is the source of all sanctification, and His people are called to reflect His character, as seen in the broader command, "Ye shall therefore be holy, for I am holy" (Leviticus 11:44).

Linguistic Insights

• The Hebrew verb translated as "sanctify" is qadash (קָדַשׁ), meaning "to set apart," "to consecrate," or "to make holy." It signifies a separation from the common or profane and a dedication to God's exclusive use and purpose.
• "Bread of thy God" (לֶחֶם אֱלֹהָיו - lechem elohav) refers to the various offerings made by fire on the altar, which were considered God's "food" or portion. This highlights the intimate connection between the priest's service and the divine economy of worship.

Practical Application

While the Levitical priesthood has been fulfilled in Jesus Christ, our great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14), the principles of holiness and respect for sacred service remain relevant.

• Respect for Spiritual Authority: This verse underscores the importance of respecting those who serve in spiritual leadership roles, recognizing their dedication to God's work. While not demanding the same ceremonial holiness, it encourages acknowledging their unique calling.
• Personal Holiness for Believers: As New Testament believers, we are called a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9). This means that each believer is set apart for God's purposes and called to live a life of holiness. Our sanctification comes from God, and we are to reflect His character in our daily lives, embodying the truth that the Lord who sanctifies us is Himself holy.