Leviticus 21:21

No descendant of Aaron the priest who has a defect shall approach to present the offerings made by fire to the LORD. Since he has a defect, he is not to come near to offer the food of his God.

Study Bible

No descendant of Aaron the priest who has a defect
This phrase establishes a standard for the priesthood, emphasizing the importance of physical wholeness in those who serve in the sanctuary. The descendants of Aaron were set apart for priestly duties, and any physical defect disqualified them from performing certain sacred functions. This requirement underscores the holiness and perfection expected in those who serve God, reflecting the perfection of God Himself. In the broader biblical context, this can be seen as a type pointing to Jesus Christ, the perfect High Priest, who was without blemish or defect (Hebrews 7:26-28).

shall approach to present the food offerings to the LORD.
The food offerings, also known as grain offerings, were a significant part of the sacrificial system, symbolizing the dedication of the fruits of labor to God. The priest's role in presenting these offerings was crucial, as it represented the people's worship and devotion. The restriction on those with defects highlights the need for purity and holiness in worship, a theme that runs throughout Leviticus. This also foreshadows the ultimate offering of Christ, who presented Himself as the perfect sacrifice to God (Ephesians 5:2).

Since he has a defect,
The repetition of the term "defect" emphasizes the importance of physical integrity in the priestly service. In the ancient Near Eastern context, physical perfection was often associated with divine favor and suitability for religious roles. This requirement served as a constant reminder of the need for holiness and the separation from anything that might symbolize imperfection or sin.

he is not to come near to offer the food of his God.
The prohibition against approaching to offer the food of God underscores the sanctity of the priestly office and the offerings themselves. The phrase "food of his God" refers to the offerings that were considered as God's portion, symbolizing His provision and sustenance. This restriction serves as a reminder of the reverence due to God and the seriousness of approaching Him in worship. It also points to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who, as the sinless High Priest, offers believers access to God (Hebrews 4:14-16).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The first high priest of Israel, brother of Moses, and ancestor of the Levitical priesthood. His descendants were set apart for priestly duties.

2. Priests
The descendants of Aaron who were responsible for performing sacrifices and maintaining the rituals of the Tabernacle and later the Temple.

3. Physical Defect
Refers to any physical imperfection or disability that would disqualify a priest from performing certain sacred duties.

4. Food Offerings
Sacrificial offerings made to God, which were a central part of Israelite worship and included grain, oil, and animal sacrifices.

5. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who established the laws and rituals for His people, Israel.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Perfection in Service
The requirement for priests to be without physical defect underscores the holiness and perfection expected in those who serve God. This reflects God's perfect nature and the need for purity in worship.

Symbolism of Physical Perfection
Physical perfection in the priesthood symbolizes spiritual purity and the need for those who approach God to be without blemish. This points to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who is spiritually and morally perfect.

Inclusivity in the New Covenant
While the Old Testament law restricted those with physical defects from priestly service, the New Covenant, through Christ, opens the way for all believers to serve God, regardless of physical condition.

Christ as the Perfect High Priest
Jesus Christ, as the sinless and perfect high priest, fulfills the requirements of the law and offers believers access to God, highlighting the grace and mercy available through Him.

Spiritual Wholeness Over Physical Perfection
In the New Testament, the emphasis shifts from physical perfection to spiritual wholeness, encouraging believers to focus on inner purity and holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement for priests to be without physical defect reflect the nature of God and His expectations for worship?

2. In what ways does the priesthood of Jesus Christ fulfill and transcend the requirements of the Levitical priesthood?

3. How can believers today apply the principle of spiritual wholeness in their service to God, regardless of physical limitations?

4. What does the shift from physical to spiritual requirements in the New Covenant teach us about God's inclusivity and grace?

5. How can understanding the symbolism of the Old Testament priesthood enhance our appreciation of Christ's role as our high priest?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28
Describes the garments and consecration of the priests, emphasizing the need for holiness and perfection in those who serve before God.

Hebrews 7
Discusses the priesthood of Jesus Christ, who is without defect and serves as the perfect high priest, contrasting with the Levitical priesthood.

Isaiah 53
Describes the suffering servant, who, despite being despised and rejected, fulfills the ultimate priestly role through His sacrifice.