Leviticus 22:12

If the priest's daughter is married to a man other than a priest, she is not to eat of the sacred contributions.

Study Bible

If the priest’s daughter is married to a man other than a priest
In ancient Israel, the priesthood was a distinct and holy calling, set apart for service to God. The priests, from the tribe of Levi, had specific roles and responsibilities, including offering sacrifices and maintaining the sanctity of the tabernacle and later the temple. A priest's family, including his daughter, was considered part of this sacred community. However, if a priest's daughter married outside of this community, to a man who was not a priest, she would no longer be part of the priestly household. This reflects the importance of maintaining the purity and distinctiveness of the priestly line, as seen in other passages such as Numbers 18:11-13, which outlines the privileges and responsibilities of the priestly family.

she is not to eat of the sacred contributions
The sacred contributions refer to portions of the offerings that were designated for the priests and their families, as described in Leviticus 7:31-34. These included parts of the peace offerings and other sacrifices that were considered holy and set apart for those serving in the temple. By marrying outside the priestly line, the daughter would no longer have the right to partake in these holy offerings, emphasizing the separation between the sacred duties of the priesthood and the rest of the community. This regulation underscores the holiness required of those who serve in God's presence and the need to respect the boundaries set by God for His people. It also foreshadows the New Testament teaching of being set apart for God's service, as seen in 1 Peter 2:9, where believers are called a "royal priesthood."

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest's Daughter
A female descendant of a priest, who is subject to specific laws regarding her conduct and privileges.

2. Priest
A male member of the tribe of Levi, specifically from the line of Aaron, responsible for performing sacrifices and maintaining the holiness of the sanctuary.

3. Sacred Contributions
Offerings made by the Israelites, which were designated for the sustenance of the priests and their families.

4. Marriage
The union of the priest's daughter to a man who is not a priest, which affects her rights to partake in the sacred offerings.

5. Israelite Community
The broader context in which these laws were given, emphasizing the holiness and separation of the priestly class.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
The priestly family was set apart for service to God, and their lifestyle reflected this separation. Believers today are called to live lives that are distinct and holy.

Identity and Privilege
The identity of the priest's daughter was tied to her father's role. Similarly, our identity in Christ grants us certain spiritual privileges and responsibilities.

Change of Status
Marriage to a non-priest changed the daughter's status and privileges. This illustrates how our choices can affect our spiritual standing and access to God's blessings.

Community and Responsibility
The laws regarding sacred contributions emphasize the community's role in supporting the priesthood, reminding us of our responsibility to support those in spiritual leadership.

Spiritual Nourishment
Just as the priest's family was nourished by the offerings, believers are nourished by the Word and the sacraments, which are sacred and should be approached with reverence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of holiness in Leviticus 22:12 apply to our lives as Christians today?

2. In what ways does our identity in Christ affect our privileges and responsibilities within the church community?

3. How can the change in the priest's daughter's status upon marriage serve as a warning or lesson for us in our spiritual walk?

4. What parallels can we draw between the sacred contributions in Leviticus and the spiritual nourishment we receive as believers?

5. How can we support our spiritual leaders today in a way that reflects the principles found in Leviticus 22:12?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 10:14-15
Discusses the portions of offerings that are to be eaten by the priest and his family, highlighting the sanctity and privilege of consuming these offerings.

Numbers 18:8-19
Details the rights of the priests to the offerings and the importance of maintaining the sanctity of these gifts.

1 Peter 2:9
Refers to believers as a "royal priesthood," drawing a spiritual parallel to the priestly duties and privileges in the Old Testament.

Hebrews 7:23-28
Discusses the eternal priesthood of Jesus, contrasting the temporary and conditional priesthood of the Old Testament.