Neither shall he go in to any dead body, nor defile himself for his father, or for his mother;
He must not go near any dead body or make himself ceremonially unclean, not even for his father or mother.
This verse is telling the high priest that he cannot participate in funeral rituals or touch dead bodies, even for his own parents, because he must remain ceremonially pure.
📚 Historical Context
In the book of Leviticus, God established detailed laws for the priests of Israel, who were descendants of Aaron, to ensure they remained holy and set apart for their sacred duties in the Tabernacle. This specific instruction prohibited the high priest from touching a dead body, even that of his parents, because contact with the dead caused ritual impurity that would disqualify him from serving before God. This rule reflected the ancient Israelite emphasis on maintaining strict separation between the holy and the profane to uphold the purity required for worship.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.