Leviticus 21:7 Meaning and Explanation
“They shall not take a wife that is a whore, or profane; neither shall they take a woman put away from her husband: for he is holy unto his God.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Priests must marry virgins or women of unquestionable virtue, never divorced or sexually immoral women.
The Context of Leviticus 21:7
Restrictions extend to the priest's choice of spouse.
What Does Leviticus 21:7 Mean?
This restriction reflects the cultural assumption that a priest's wife's status affected his own. A woman known for sexual immorality or a woman divorced from another man would be seen as 'profane'—unsuitable for a holy man's household. The law protected not just the priest's ritual purity but his standing and his family's reputation within the community.
Beyond cultural preservation, the rule embodied a principle: those who serve in God's house should choose partners whose backgrounds align with sacred values. A priest's household was an extension of the sanctuary, and choosing a wife was a decision with spiritual implications. While this may seem harsh to modern ears, it reflects the ancient conviction that marriage partners significantly shaped each other's spiritual condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 21:7
What does Leviticus 21:7 mean?
Priests must marry virgins or women of unquestionable virtue, never divorced or sexually immoral women.
What is the context of Leviticus 21:7?
Restrictions extend to the priest's choice of spouse.