This verse supports the principle that God’s design for holiness never negates compassion and responsibility within the immediate family.
Leviticus 21:3 version states, "also for his virgin sister, who is near to him because she has not had a husband; for her he may defile himself" (v.3). This verse appears in the midst of guidelines directed toward the Levitical priests, who were descendants of Levi and set apart for sacred duties. These regulations were revealed to Moses (circa 1525-1406 BC) when the Israelites were at Mount Sinai, emphasizing that priests should maintain ritual purity. However, this passage clarifies that in the event of the death of a priest’s unmarried sister, he is permitted to “defile” himself by attending to her burial, underscoring the very practical need to show dignity and compassionate involvement for close kin.
The verse stresses the family bond that exists between a priest and his near relative, reminding us that holiness does not invalidate genuine care for one’s immediate family. By including “virgin sister” in this category, Scripture indicates a situation where she is likely dependent on familial support, as she does not have a husband. These detailed instructions echo the broader principle found throughout Leviticus: God calls His people to be holy, yet He also calls them to honor and attend to legitimate family responsibilities (Exodus 20:12). This nuanced balance between maintaining priestly purity and showing compassion reveals God’s concern for both spiritual and relational well-being.
From a New Testament perspective, Jesus reminded His followers of the significance of familial connections while also expanding the notion of spiritual family (Mark 3:35). Though priests were to remain undefiled for service to the Lord, God granted them permission to tend to family members who passed away, demonstrating the value He places on honoring close bonds. In this way, Leviticus 21:3 shows that holiness and love for family go hand in hand in God’s plan for His people.
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Leviticus 21:3 meaning
Leviticus 21:3 version states, "also for his virgin sister, who is near to him because she has not had a husband; for her he may defile himself" (v.3). This verse appears in the midst of guidelines directed toward the Levitical priests, who were descendants of Levi and set apart for sacred duties. These regulations were revealed to Moses (circa 1525-1406 BC) when the Israelites were at Mount Sinai, emphasizing that priests should maintain ritual purity. However, this passage clarifies that in the event of the death of a priest’s unmarried sister, he is permitted to “defile” himself by attending to her burial, underscoring the very practical need to show dignity and compassionate involvement for close kin.
The verse stresses the family bond that exists between a priest and his near relative, reminding us that holiness does not invalidate genuine care for one’s immediate family. By including “virgin sister” in this category, Scripture indicates a situation where she is likely dependent on familial support, as she does not have a husband. These detailed instructions echo the broader principle found throughout Leviticus: God calls His people to be holy, yet He also calls them to honor and attend to legitimate family responsibilities (Exodus 20:12). This nuanced balance between maintaining priestly purity and showing compassion reveals God’s concern for both spiritual and relational well-being.
From a New Testament perspective, Jesus reminded His followers of the significance of familial connections while also expanding the notion of spiritual family (Mark 3:35). Though priests were to remain undefiled for service to the Lord, God granted them permission to tend to family members who passed away, demonstrating the value He places on honoring close bonds. In this way, Leviticus 21:3 shows that holiness and love for family go hand in hand in God’s plan for His people.