Leviticus 22:10 Meaning and Explanation
“There shall no stranger eat of the holy thing: a sojourner of the priest, or an hired servant, shall not eat of the holy thing.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Only those belonging to the priestly household may eat the holy offerings; outsiders are excluded.
The Context of Leviticus 22:10
The priestly offerings are reserved for the priest's own household and family.
What Does Leviticus 22:10 Mean?
The holy offerings—the portions of sacrifices given to the priests—are restricted to family members. A sojourner (a temporary resident attached to the household) and a hired servant (a worker with a time-limited contract) do not have the right to eat these sacred foods, no matter how long they serve or live in the priest's house.
This exclusion underscores that the offerings belong to the covenant—the specific relationship between God and the priestly house. Eating from them affirms membership in that covenant family. Outsiders, by definition, stand outside that relationship.
Leviticus 22:10 in the Original Language
stranger (זָר, zar) — one who is outside the family, not belonging to the group; a foreigner or outsider.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 22:10
What does Leviticus 22:10 mean?
Only those belonging to the priestly household may eat the holy offerings; outsiders are excluded.
What is the context of Leviticus 22:10?
The priestly offerings are reserved for the priest's own household and family.