Leviticus 21:18 Meaning and Explanation
“For whatsoever man he be that hath a blemish, he shall not approach: a blind man, or a lame, or he that hath a flat nose, or any thing superfluous,”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Specific physical conditions—blindness, lameness, flat nose, and deformities—disqualify a priest from altar service.
The Context of Leviticus 21:18
Specific disqualifying physical conditions are listed.
What Does Leviticus 21:18 Mean?
The list begins enumerating particular examples of disqualifying conditions. Blindness prevented a priest from seeing the work required; lameness affected his movement around the altar. A flat nose was likely a visible injury or deformity. The phrase 'or any thing superfluous' indicates growths, extra limbs or digits, or other additions to normal form. Each example represents visibility and recognizable deviation from wholeness.
The specificity suggests these were not rare edge cases but conditions the community had encountered. The law was written to prevent awkward disputes about who could or could not approach the altar. By naming examples, it clarified that visual defect alone was the criterion, not questions about competence or spirituality. This protected both priests with blemishes and the community's confidence in worship.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 21:18
What does Leviticus 21:18 mean?
Specific physical conditions—blindness, lameness, flat nose, and deformities—disqualify a priest from altar service.
What is the context of Leviticus 21:18?
Specific disqualifying physical conditions are listed.