Leviticus 22:10

No one outside a priest's family may eat the sacred offering, nor may the guest of a priest or his hired hand eat it.

Study Bible

No one outside a priest’s family
This phrase establishes a clear boundary regarding who is permitted to partake in the sacred offerings. The Hebrew word for "outside" is "zar," which often refers to a foreigner or someone who is not part of a specific group. In this context, it underscores the exclusivity of the priestly family in matters of holiness and sacred duties. Historically, the priesthood was a distinct and consecrated group within Israel, set apart for service to God. This separation emphasizes the holiness required to approach and handle sacred things, reflecting the broader biblical theme of God's holiness and the call for His people to be set apart.

may eat the sacred offering
The "sacred offering" refers to portions of sacrifices that were designated for the priests and their families. The Hebrew term "qodesh" for "sacred" signifies something that is holy, set apart for God. Eating these offerings was not merely a physical act but a participation in the holiness of God. It was a privilege and a responsibility, symbolizing the sustenance that comes from God’s provision. This reflects the broader biblical principle that what is holy must be treated with reverence and care, and those who partake in it must be consecrated.

nor may the guest of a priest
The term "guest" here is translated from the Hebrew "toshav," which means a sojourner or temporary resident. This indicates that even those who might be staying with a priest, perhaps for an extended period, were not permitted to eat the sacred offerings. This restriction highlights the importance of maintaining the sanctity of what is holy, ensuring that only those who are ritually pure and part of the covenant community through the priestly lineage could partake.

or his hired hand
The "hired hand" or "sakhir" in Hebrew refers to a laborer or worker who is employed by the priest. This distinction further emphasizes that the sacred offerings were not to be treated as common food or as part of regular compensation. The hired hand, despite being in the service of the priest, did not share in the priestly privileges. This delineation serves as a reminder of the unique role and responsibility of the priesthood, and by extension, the call for all believers to recognize and respect the boundaries of sacred service.

eat it
The act of eating in the biblical context often signifies fellowship and communion. In this verse, the restriction on who may "eat" the sacred offerings underscores the idea that communion with God through these offerings was a special privilege reserved for those who were consecrated. It serves as a metaphor for the spiritual nourishment that comes from a relationship with God, reminding believers of the importance of approaching God with reverence and purity. This principle is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called to partake in the Lord’s Supper with a heart of reverence and self-examination.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The descendants of Aaron, set apart to perform the duties of the tabernacle and later the temple. They were responsible for offering sacrifices and maintaining the holiness of the sacred offerings.

2. Sacred Offering
These were portions of sacrifices that were designated as holy and set apart for consumption by the priests and their families. They symbolized the provision and blessing of God.

3. Outsiders
Refers to anyone not belonging to the priestly family, including guests and hired workers. They were not permitted to partake in the sacred offerings, emphasizing the sanctity and exclusivity of these offerings.

4. Tabernacle/Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites where sacrifices and offerings were made. It was a place of divine presence and holiness.

5. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the Law through Moses, including the regulations concerning offerings and priestly conduct.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
The sacred offerings were a symbol of God's holiness and provision. Just as the priests were set apart, believers today are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness.

Respect for Divine Ordinances
The restriction on who could eat the sacred offerings underscores the importance of respecting God's commands and the boundaries He sets. This teaches us to honor God's instructions in our lives.

Spiritual Privileges and Responsibilities
The priests had the privilege of partaking in the sacred offerings, but with it came the responsibility to maintain purity. Believers, as a spiritual priesthood, have privileges in Christ but must also uphold their responsibilities.

Community and Inclusion
While the sacred offerings were exclusive, the broader community of Israel was included in God's covenant. This balance of exclusivity and inclusion can guide how we engage with our faith communities today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of holiness in Leviticus 22:10 apply to our daily lives as Christians today?

2. In what ways can we respect and honor God's commands in our modern context, similar to the respect shown for the sacred offerings?

3. How does understanding the role of the Old Testament priesthood enhance our appreciation of being called a "royal priesthood" in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical ways we can balance the exclusivity of our faith with the call to be inclusive and loving towards others?

5. How can we ensure that we are fulfilling both the privileges and responsibilities of our spiritual calling in Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
Details the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests, establishing the foundation for the priestly duties and privileges, including the consumption of sacred offerings.

Numbers 18
Expands on the rights and responsibilities of the priests, including the portions of offerings they are entitled to eat, reinforcing the exclusivity mentioned in Leviticus 22:10.

1 Peter 2:9
Describes believers as a "royal priesthood," drawing a spiritual parallel to the Old Testament priesthood and emphasizing the call to holiness and separation.