Leviticus 21:17 Meaning and Explanation
“Speak unto Aaron, saying, Whosoever he be of thy seed in their generations that hath any blemish, let him not approach to offer the bread of his God.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Any descendant of Aaron with a physical blemish is barred from offering sacrifices.
The Context of Leviticus 21:17
The introduction of blemish restrictions for all of Aaron's descendants.
What Does Leviticus 21:17 Mean?
'Blemish' encompasses any visible physical defect or disease—whether minor marks, scars, blindness, lameness, or chronic conditions. The restriction was not based on whether the priest could physically perform the work but on the principle that one approaching the altar must represent wholeness and purity. The priest's body itself was part of the offering, in a symbolic sense, and imperfection would contradict the message being conveyed.
This rule applied specifically to performing priestly duties at the altar. A priest with a blemish was not expelled from his heritage or denied all participation in the sanctuary—later verses clarify he could eat the holy bread—but he was restricted from the visible, central act of making the offering. The distinction protected the visual integrity of worship without completely denying him access to the sanctuary.
Leviticus 21:17 in the Original Language
mum (מוּם), 'blemish' — any visible physical defect, mark, or imperfection that would render something unsuitable for sacred offering.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 21:17
What does Leviticus 21:17 mean?
Any descendant of Aaron with a physical blemish is barred from offering sacrifices.
What is the context of Leviticus 21:17?
The introduction of blemish restrictions for all of Aaron's descendants.