Leviticus 22:14

KJV

And if a man eat [of] the holy thing unwittingly, then he shall put the fifth [part] thereof unto it, and shall give [it] unto the priest with the holy thing.

KJV (with Strong's)

And if a man {H376} eat {H398} of the holy thing {H6944} unwittingly {H7684}, then he shall put {H3254} the fifth {H2549} part thereof unto it, and shall give {H5414} it unto the priest {H3548} with the holy thing {H6944}.

Complete Jewish Bible

If a person eats holy food by mistake, he must add one-fifth to it and give the holy food to the cohen.

Berean Standard Bible

If anyone eats a sacred offering in error, he must add a fifth to its value and give the sacred offering to the priest.

American Standard Version

And if a man eat of the holy thing unwittingly, then he shall put the fifth part thereof unto it, and shall give unto the priest the holy thing.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 22:14 establishes a precise regulation within Israel's ceremonial law concerning the inadvertent consumption of consecrated food by an unauthorized individual. If someone outside the priestly household unwittingly partakes of a "holy thing"—a portion of an offering designated for the priests—they are required to make full restitution for its value, augmented by an additional one-fifth (20%) surcharge. This total amount was to be given to the priest, ensuring the sanctity of God's provisions was upheld and the economic sustenance of His consecrated servants was maintained, even in instances of unintentional transgression against the divine order.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 22:14 is situated within a crucial section of the book (chapters 21-22) that meticulously defines the standards of holiness required for the priesthood and the sacred offerings they handled. Chapter 21 outlines the personal purity and conduct expected of priests, including strictures on marriage and contact with ritual impurity, all designed to ensure their fitness for ministering before a holy God. Chapter 22 then transitions to the regulations governing the "holy things" themselves—the portions of sacrifices and tithes designated for priestly sustenance. Verses 10-16 of chapter 22 specifically delineate who within a priest's household (e.g., immediate family, purchased slaves) was permitted to eat these consecrated items, explicitly excluding temporary residents, hired servants, and, by extension, any non-priestly Israelite. Verse 14 directly addresses the specific scenario of an unauthorized person consuming such an item by mistake, providing the legal and ritual remedy for this unintentional defilement of God's property. The surrounding verses emphasize the extreme care required in handling sacred provisions, reinforcing the gravity of any violation, whether intentional or not.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the Tabernacle (and later the Temple) served as the central locus of divine presence and worship. The concept of "holiness" (Hebrew: *qodesh*), signifying separation unto God and intrinsic purity, permeated every aspect of Israelite life, particularly their worship. Offerings presented to Yahweh were consecrated and became His exclusive property, with specific portions often allocated for the sustenance of the Levitical priests who served at the altar. This system was vital, as priests received no tribal land inheritance; their livelihood depended entirely on these divine provisions. The laws governing the handling and consumption of these "holy things" were not merely administrative; they underscored the profound reverence due to God and anything associated with His divine presence. Even unintentional transgressions, such as eating a holy thing unwittingly, were deemed serious because they violated the sanctity of God's property and the purity of His sanctuary system. The prescribed restitution, including the additional "fifth part," was a common legal principle in the Mosaic Law for trespasses, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense and deterring carelessness, as seen in laws concerning stolen property or damage (e.g., [Leviticus 6:5](/leviticus/6-5 "Leviticus 6:5 - Restitution for Trespass") and [Numbers 5:7](/numbers/5-7 "Numbers 5:7 - Restitution for Trespass")).
* **Key Themes:** Leviticus 22:14 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of **God's Absolute Holiness**. This verse underscores that God's holiness is inherent and demands meticulous reverence, regardless of human intent. Even an unwitting act of defilement requires rectification, demonstrating that the sacred realm is not to be trifled with. Closely related is the theme of **Purity and Separation**, as the law meticulously distinguishes between the sacred and the common, and between those authorized to handle holy things and those who are not. The verse also highlights the theme of **Justice and Restitution**, emphasizing that wrongs, even unintentional ones, must be made right. The "fifth part" surcharge serves as a punitive element, deterring carelessness and ensuring full compensation. Furthermore, it speaks to the theme of **Priestly Provision**, ensuring that the priests, who dedicated their lives to serving God, were not deprived of their divinely appointed sustenance due to the errors of others. This entire section reinforces the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where obedience to these detailed laws was a demonstration of their commitment to living as a holy people set apart for a holy God, as commanded throughout [Leviticus](/leviticus/1 "The Book of Leviticus").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **man (Hebrew, _ʼîysh'_):** This term refers to an individual, a male person, or simply "anyone." In this context, it signifies any person who is not a priest or a permitted member of a priestly household. The use of this general term emphasizes that the law applies universally to any unauthorized individual who might inadvertently come into contact with or consume a holy thing, highlighting the broad scope of the sanctity laws.
* **eat (Hebrew, _ʼâkal'_):** A primitive root meaning "to eat" literally or figuratively, "to consume," or "to devour." Here, it refers to the physical act of consuming the consecrated food. The simple, direct nature of the verb underscores the tangible violation that occurs when something set apart for God is consumed by one who is not authorized, regardless of the intention behind the act.
* **holy thing (Hebrew, _qôdesh'_):** This term denotes something consecrated, set apart, or dedicated to God. In the context of Leviticus, it specifically refers to offerings, portions of sacrifices, or other items that have been sanctified and are therefore considered God's exclusive property. Its inherent holiness renders it untouchable or consumable only by those ritually pure and explicitly authorized, primarily the priests and their qualified household members. The concept of *qôdesh* pervades the Mosaic Law, emphasizing God's absolute distinction and purity.
* **unwittingly (Hebrew, _shᵉgâgâh'_):** This term, derived from the root meaning "to err" or "to go astray," signifies an action done "by error," "mistake," "unintentionally," or "ignorantly." It is crucial because it distinguishes this transgression from a deliberate, defiant, or presumptuous sin, which typically carried a much more severe penalty, often involving being "cut off" from the community. The fact that even an unintentional act of defilement required restitution highlights the extreme sensitivity and non-negotiable nature of God's holiness and the sanctity of His provisions.
* **fifth part (Hebrew, _chămîyshîy'_):** This refers to an additional 20% surcharge added to the value of the "holy thing" that was consumed. This "penalty" or "fine" element, beyond mere repayment of the principal, is a recurring feature in Old Testament restitution laws for certain trespasses. It served multiple purposes: to underscore the seriousness of the offense (even if unintentional), to deter carelessness in handling sacred items, and to ensure that the wronged party (in this case, the priest, representing God's portion) was fully compensated and even received a punitive addition for the violation of sacred space or property.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And if a man eat [of] the holy thing unwittingly":** This opening clause establishes the specific scenario for which the law provides a remedy. It describes an unauthorized individual—anyone not a priest or a permitted member of his household—consuming something consecrated to God. The crucial qualifier "unwittingly" (or "by error") indicates that the act was not malicious, defiant, or intentional. This distinction is vital in Mosaic law, as intentional sins carried far more severe penalties, often capital. Here, the focus is on the objective violation of holiness, irrespective of subjective intent.
* **"then he shall put the fifth [part] thereof unto it":** This specifies the first component of the required restitution. The offender is commanded to calculate the monetary value of the consecrated item that was consumed and then add an additional 20% (one-fifth) to that value. This surcharge functions as a penalty or fine, demonstrating that even an unintentional violation of the sacred realm incurs a cost beyond mere replacement. It reinforces the gravity of the offense and serves as a deterrent against carelessness, ensuring that the act is not simply undone but that a consequence is incurred.
* **"and shall give [it] unto the priest with the holy thing":** This concludes the prescribed action, detailing the recipient and the complete nature of the restitution. The total amount—comprising the full value of the holy thing plus the added fifth part—is to be delivered to the priest. This ensures that the priest, whose sustenance relied on these offerings, does not suffer financial loss due to the unintentional error of another. It also reinforces the priest's divinely appointed role as the custodian of holy things and the rightful recipient of what is consecrated to God, maintaining the integrity of the sacrificial system and the provision for its ministers.

#### Literary Devices
The passage primarily employs **Casuistic Law**, characterized by its "if... then..." structure. This legal form presents a specific case ("And if a man eat...") and prescribes a precise consequence or remedy ("then he shall put... and shall give..."). This structure ensures clarity, enforceability, and comprehensiveness within the Israelite legal system, addressing potential scenarios with meticulous detail. There is also an implicit use of **Metonymy** where "the holy thing" stands for the sacred portion of an offering, highlighting its consecrated status. The detailed specification of the "fifth part" demonstrates **Legal Precision**, leaving no ambiguity regarding the required restitution and emphasizing the meticulousness of divine law. Furthermore, the passage implicitly highlights the foundational principles of **Justice** and **Restitution** within God's covenant, demonstrating that even unintentional wrongs against the divine order require a specific and tangible act of rectification to restore balance and honor.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 22:14 profoundly illustrates God's absolute holiness and the meticulous care required when dealing with anything consecrated to Him. It teaches that even unintentional defilement of sacred things or violation of divine ordinances carries consequences and requires rectification. This principle underscores that God's holiness is not dependent on human intention but is an inherent attribute that demands reverence and purity. The requirement of restitution, including the additional "fifth part," demonstrates God's commitment to justice, the preservation of the priestly provision, and the seriousness of any trespass against His sacred order, whether conscious or not. It reveals that sin, even when unwitting, creates a debt that must be paid, highlighting humanity's pervasive need for atonement.

* [Leviticus 5:15](/leviticus/5-15 "Leviticus 5:15-16 - Trespass Offering for Unintentional Sins")
* [Numbers 5:6](/numbers/5-6 "Numbers 5:6-7 - Confession and Restitution for Trespass")
* [Ezra 10:19](/ezra/10-19 "Ezra 10:19 - Restitution for Covenant Violation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific ceremonial laws of the Old Testament concerning "holy things" and their consumption are not directly applicable to New Covenant believers, the underlying spiritual principles of Leviticus 22:14 remain profoundly relevant. This verse calls us to a deep reverence for God's holiness and a recognition that even our unintentional missteps can have spiritual consequences, requiring acknowledgment and, where possible, rectification. It challenges us to consider how we treat "holy things" in our lives today—God's Word, His name, His church, our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit, the sacred trust of our spiritual gifts, and even the resources we steward. Do we approach these with the care and reverence they deserve, or do we sometimes treat them carelessly or presumptuously, even unwittingly? The call to restitution reminds us that true repentance often involves not just confession but also a willingness to make amends and restore what has been diminished or harmed, whether in our relationship with God or with others. It encourages a posture of humility and accountability before a holy God, acknowledging that even our best intentions can fall short of His perfect standard and that His holiness demands our utmost respect.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "holy things" in my life (e.g., time, talents, relationships, the church, God's Word) might I be treating with less reverence than they deserve, even unintentionally?**
* **How does the concept of "unwitting" sin in Leviticus 22:14 challenge my understanding of accountability and grace in my spiritual walk?**
* **In what ways can I practice "restitution" and "making amends" in my relationships and spiritual walk today, even for unintentional wrongs or neglects?**

### FAQ
**What is the modern relevance of a law about accidentally eating "holy things"?**

Answer: While Christians are not under the ceremonial laws of the Old Testament regarding specific food items or physical offerings, the underlying principles of Leviticus 22:14 remain highly relevant. It teaches us about God's absolute holiness and the seriousness of anything that violates His sacred standards, even if done unintentionally. For believers today, "holy things" can be understood metaphorically as anything God has set apart for Himself or declared sacred: His name, His Word ([2 Timothy 3:16](/2_timothy/3-16 "2 Timothy 3:16 - All Scripture is God-breathed")), the sanctity of human life, the church as the body of Christ ([1 Corinthians 12:27](/1_corinthians/12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:27 - You are the Body of Christ")), and our own bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19-20](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit")). The law reminds us that even unintentional disrespect, misuse, or defilement of these spiritual "holy things" requires acknowledgment, repentance, and a desire to make things right, reflecting God's unwavering demand for reverence and purity in all aspects of our lives.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 22:14, with its focus on unintentional sin and the need for restitution, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The law, in its meticulous detail, reveals humanity's pervasive need for atonement, underscoring that no amount of human effort or partial restitution (like adding a "fifth part") can truly purify from sin or fully satisfy God's perfect holiness. Christ, however, is the ultimate "holy thing," the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), whose perfect sacrifice on the cross fully atoned for *all* sin—intentional and unintentional alike. Unlike the temporary and partial restitution required under the Old Covenant, Jesus' once-for-all sacrifice provides complete and eternal forgiveness for those who believe ([Hebrews 10:10-14](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10-14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). He is our great High Priest ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")) who entered the true heavenly sanctuary, not with the blood of animals, but with His own blood, securing an eternal redemption ([Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). Through faith in Him, we are not merely making restitution for our errors; we are declared righteous and made holy, covered by His perfect obedience and atoning work, fulfilling the spirit of the law's demand for purity and justice in a way the old covenant could only foreshadow. His sacrifice fully satisfied the divine requirement for holiness, allowing us to approach God without fear of unwitting defilement, for [in Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins](/ephesians/1-7 "Ephesians 1:7 - Redemption Through His Blood").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Leviticus 27:15

And if he that sanctified it will redeem his house, then he shall add the fifth [part] of the money of thy estimation unto it, and it shall be his.

Leviticus 27:13

But if he will at all redeem it, then he shall add a fifth [part] thereof unto thy estimation.

Leviticus 5:15

If a soul commit a trespass, and sin through ignorance, in the holy things of the LORD; then he shall bring for his trespass unto the LORD a ram without blemish out of the flocks, with thy estimation by shekels of silver, after the shekel of the sanctuary, for a trespass offering:

Leviticus 5:19

It [is] a trespass offering: he hath certainly trespassed against the LORD.