Ezekiel 44:22

And they shall not marry a widow or a divorced woman, but must marry a virgin of the descendants of the house of Israel, or a widow of a priest.

Study Bible

They must not marry
This phrase sets a clear directive for the Levitical priests, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a certain standard of holiness and purity in their personal lives. The Hebrew root for "marry" is "laqach," which means to take or to receive. This reflects the covenantal nature of marriage, seen as a sacred union that should reflect God's holiness. The priests, as mediators between God and the people, were to exemplify this holiness in their marriages.

a widow or a divorced woman
The prohibition against marrying a widow or a divorced woman underscores the importance of ritual purity and the symbolic representation of the priesthood. In ancient Israel, marriage to a widow or a divorced woman could be seen as a potential source of ritual impurity, which was a significant concern for those serving in the temple. The historical context reveals that the priesthood was to be set apart, maintaining a higher standard to symbolize the purity and faithfulness of God to His people.

but only a virgin
The term "virgin" in Hebrew is "bethulah," which signifies a woman who has not been married or had sexual relations. This requirement for priests to marry virgins was not merely about physical purity but also about the symbolic representation of Israel as a pure and devoted bride to God. The marriage of a priest to a virgin was a living metaphor for the covenant relationship between God and Israel, highlighting themes of faithfulness and dedication.

of the offspring of the house of Israel
This phrase emphasizes the importance of maintaining the cultural and religious identity of Israel. By marrying within the "house of Israel," priests were to ensure that their families remained within the covenant community, preserving the distinctiveness of God's chosen people. This reflects the broader biblical theme of Israel as a distinct and holy nation, set apart for God's purposes.

or a widow who is the widow of a priest
This exception to the rule acknowledges the unique status of a widow who had been married to a priest. Such a woman would have already been part of the priestly community and understood the demands and responsibilities of priestly life. This provision shows a compassionate understanding of the social and religious dynamics of the time, allowing for continuity and stability within the priestly families.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, who received visions and messages from God concerning the restoration of Israel and the temple.

2. The Priests
Specifically, the Levitical priests, who were given specific instructions regarding their conduct and duties in the temple.

3. The House of Israel
Refers to the descendants of Jacob, the chosen people of God, who were to maintain purity and holiness.

4. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

5. Marriage Regulations
Specific guidelines given to the priests regarding whom they could marry, emphasizing purity and holiness.

Teaching Points

Holiness in Leadership
The priests were held to a higher standard of holiness, reflecting their role as mediators between God and the people. This principle applies to spiritual leaders today, who are called to live lives of integrity and purity.

Purity in Relationships
The marriage regulations for priests highlight the importance of purity in relationships. Believers are encouraged to pursue relationships that honor God and reflect His holiness.

Symbolism of the Bride
The requirement for priests to marry a virgin or a widow of a priest symbolizes the purity and faithfulness expected of God's people, who are often depicted as the bride of Christ in the New Testament.

Covenant Faithfulness
The emphasis on marrying within the house of Israel underscores the importance of covenant faithfulness, both in marriage and in our relationship with God.

Role of the Priesthood
The priesthood's role in maintaining the sanctity of the temple serves as a reminder of the believer's role in maintaining the sanctity of their own lives as temples of the Holy Spirit.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the marriage regulations for priests in Ezekiel 44:22 reflect the broader theme of holiness in the Bible?

2. In what ways can the principles of purity and holiness in relationships be applied to modern Christian marriages?

3. How does the concept of the priesthood in the Old Testament relate to the New Testament idea of believers as a royal priesthood?

4. What are some practical ways that spiritual leaders today can uphold the standards of holiness and integrity in their personal lives?

5. How can understanding the covenant faithfulness required of the priests help us in our own covenant relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 21:7, 13-14
These verses provide similar instructions for the priests regarding marriage, emphasizing the need for holiness and purity in their personal lives.

1 Timothy 3:2
This verse outlines the qualifications for church leaders, including being the husband of one wife, which reflects the importance of marital fidelity and purity.

1 Peter 2:9
This verse describes believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the Old Testament priestly standards to the New Testament call for holiness among all believers.