Leviticus 21:13 Meaning and Explanation

The high priest's marriage requirement is stated in its simplest form: only a virgin. Ordinary priests could not marry women known for immorality or those who were divorced, but the high priest's restriction goes further. He must choose a woman who has never been with any man, ensuring absolute purity in his household and eliminating any question about the legitimacy of his children's lineage.

This stringent requirement reflects the belief that the high priest's role demanded perfection in all domains of his life. His household had to be beyond reproach. A virgin bride from the community ensured continuity of the priestly line through unquestionable descent and symbolized the high priest's authority to maintain Israel's covenant purity standards.