Leviticus 21:19

no man who has a broken foot or hand,

Study Bible

or one who has
This phrase introduces a condition or state of being that is relevant to the context of the Levitical priesthood. In Hebrew, the word used here is "אִישׁ" (ish), meaning "man" or "one." It emphasizes the individual nature of the condition being described. The use of "has" indicates possession or presence of a condition, which in this context, is a physical imperfection. This sets the stage for understanding the requirements for those serving in the priestly role, highlighting the importance of physical wholeness in the Old Testament priesthood.

a broken foot
The Hebrew word for "broken" is "שָׁבוּר" (shabur), which means fractured or shattered. The foot, "רֶגֶל" (regel), is symbolic of one's walk or way of life in biblical literature. A broken foot implies an inability to walk properly, which in the context of the priesthood, symbolizes a disruption in one's spiritual journey or service. The priests were required to be physically whole as a representation of spiritual wholeness and purity, reflecting the holiness of God whom they served.

or a broken hand
Similarly, "broken" here is again "שָׁבוּר" (shabur), and "hand" is "יָד" (yad) in Hebrew. The hand is often symbolic of action, power, and ability. A broken hand would imply an inability to perform tasks or duties effectively. In the priestly context, this would hinder the priest's ability to carry out the sacred rituals and offerings required in the temple service. The emphasis on physical perfection in the priesthood underscores the need for those who serve God to be without blemish, reflecting the perfection and holiness of God Himself.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The primary audience of Leviticus 21, where God gives specific instructions regarding the physical qualifications for those serving as priests in the tabernacle.

2. Moses
The mediator through whom God delivers the laws and instructions to the Israelites, including those in Leviticus.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are to be set apart and holy, with the priests serving as mediators between them and God.

4. Tabernacle
The sacred place where the Israelites worship God, and where the priests perform their duties.

5. God's Holiness
The overarching theme of Leviticus, emphasizing the need for purity and holiness in approaching God.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Service
The physical requirements for priests in Leviticus 21 highlight the importance of holiness and purity in serving God. While physical perfection was required for Old Testament priests, today, God calls us to spiritual purity and holiness in our service.

God's Standards
God's standards for those who serve Him are high, reflecting His own holiness. This challenges us to strive for excellence and integrity in our own lives as we serve Him.

Spiritual Wholeness
While physical imperfections disqualified priests in the Old Testament, in Christ, our spiritual wholeness is what matters. We are called to be spiritually whole and mature, reflecting Christ's character.

Inclusivity in Christ
The New Testament reveals that in Christ, all believers are part of a royal priesthood, regardless of physical imperfections. This inclusivity challenges us to value each person's unique contributions to the body of Christ.

Dependence on Christ
Recognizing our own imperfections, we are reminded of our dependence on Christ, the perfect High Priest, who intercedes for us and makes us acceptable before God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement for physical perfection in Leviticus 21:19 reflect God's holiness, and how can we apply this principle to our spiritual lives today?

2. In what ways does the New Testament redefine the concept of priesthood, and how does this impact our understanding of service to God?

3. How can we reconcile the physical requirements for priests in the Old Testament with the inclusivity of the New Testament church?

4. What are some practical ways we can strive for spiritual wholeness and maturity in our daily walk with Christ?

5. How does understanding Jesus as our perfect High Priest influence our approach to worship and service in the church today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28-29
These chapters provide details on the consecration and duties of the priests, highlighting the importance of holiness and purity in their service.

Hebrews 7
This chapter discusses Jesus as the perfect High Priest, contrasting the Levitical priesthood with the eternal priesthood of Christ.

Isaiah 53
The suffering servant passage, which speaks to the idea of brokenness and how God uses what is broken for His purposes.

1 Peter 2:9
This verse speaks to the priesthood of all believers, emphasizing spiritual rather than physical qualifications.

Matthew 5:48
Jesus calls His followers to be perfect as the Father is perfect, echoing the call to holiness found in Leviticus.