Leviticus 21:3

or his unmarried sister who is near to him, since she has no husband.

Study Bible

or his unmarried sister
The Hebrew word for "sister" is "אָחוֹת" (achot), which signifies a close familial relationship. In ancient Israelite society, family bonds were paramount, and the care for one's siblings was a significant responsibility. The term "unmarried" indicates a woman who has not entered into a marriage covenant, which in the cultural context of the time, often left her vulnerable and reliant on her family for support. This highlights the protective role that a brother, especially a priest, was expected to play in the absence of a husband.

who is dependent on him
The phrase "dependent on him" underscores the social and economic realities of the time. In a patriarchal society, women often relied on male relatives for provision and protection. The Hebrew root here suggests a state of reliance or need, emphasizing the brother's duty to care for his sister. This dependency is not merely financial but also social, as the brother would be her advocate and protector in the community.

since she has no husband
This clause provides the reason for her dependency. In ancient Israel, marriage was not only a personal union but also a social contract that provided security and status. A woman without a husband lacked the societal protection and provision that marriage afforded. This context highlights the vulnerability of widows and unmarried women, which is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where God often commands care for such individuals.

he may defile himself for her
The term "defile" in Hebrew is "טָמֵא" (tamei), which refers to a state of ritual impurity. Priests were generally prohibited from becoming ritually unclean, especially through contact with the dead, as they were set apart for service to God. However, this verse provides an exception, allowing a priest to become unclean for the sake of his immediate family, reflecting the high value placed on familial duty and compassion. This exception underscores the balance between religious duty and familial love, illustrating that God's laws are not merely rigid rules but are imbued with grace and understanding of human relationships.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The primary audience of Leviticus 21, priests were set apart for service in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. They were held to higher standards of purity and conduct.

2. Unmarried Sister
The specific family member mentioned in this verse, highlighting the familial responsibilities and the cultural context of dependency and protection.

3. Mourning Practices
The context involves the mourning practices of the Israelites, which could include becoming ceremonially unclean by touching a dead body.

Teaching Points

Family Responsibility
The verse underscores the importance of family obligations, especially towards those who are vulnerable or dependent.

Holiness and Compassion
While priests were called to maintain holiness, this verse shows that compassion and duty to family are also vital aspects of their service.

Cultural Context
Understanding the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel helps us appreciate the balance between religious duties and family responsibilities.

Modern Application
In today's context, this principle can be applied by ensuring we prioritize our family responsibilities, especially towards those who are dependent on us.

Balancing Duty and Compassion
The verse teaches us to balance our spiritual commitments with our earthly responsibilities, ensuring neither is neglected.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Leviticus 21:3 reflect the balance between religious duty and family responsibility?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of caring for dependent family members in our modern context?

3. How do the priestly regulations in Leviticus 21 compare to the New Testament teachings on family responsibilities?

4. What does this verse teach us about the nature of holiness in relation to compassion and duty?

5. How can understanding the cultural context of Leviticus 21:3 enhance our interpretation and application of this scripture today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 19
Discusses the purification process after becoming unclean, providing context for the priestly regulations.

1 Timothy 5
Offers guidance on caring for widows and family responsibilities, echoing the theme of familial duty.

Matthew 15
Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for neglecting family responsibilities, reinforcing the importance of caring for one's family.