Only he shall not go in unto the vail, nor come nigh unto the altar, because he hath a blemish; that he profane not my sanctuaries: for I the LORD do sanctify them.
But he must not go behind the curtain or approach the altar because he has a physical defect. This would make my holy places unclean, for I the LORD make them sacred.
God is explaining that priests with physical disabilities cannot perform certain duties in the most sacred areas of the temple to maintain its holiness.
📚 Historical Context
This verse is part of God's instructions to Moses about priestly requirements in ancient Israel. The tabernacle (and later temple) had specific areas of increasing holiness, with the veil separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place where God's presence dwelt. These physical requirements for priests reflected the ceremonial purity laws that governed worship in the Old Testament system.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.