Leviticus 21:10
And he that is the high priest among his brethren, upon whose head the anointing oil was poured, and that is consecrated to put on the garments, shall not uncover his head, nor rend his clothes;
Leviticus 21:10 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Leviticus, the high priest is being instructed to maintain a certain level of decorum and respect for his position. The anointing oil poured on his head signifies his consecration and dedication to serving God and the people. As a symbol of his consecration, he is to keep his head covered and his garments intact, without tearing them. This symbolism emphasizes the high priest's role as a representative of God to the people, and the importance of holding his office with dignity and reverence. By following these guidelines, the high priest demonstrates his commitment to fulfilling his duties with honor and integrity. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the solemnity and gravity of the high priest's responsibilities and the need to uphold the sanctity of his position.
Theological Overview
In this verse, we see a commandment given to the high priest in the Old Testament regarding his appearance and conduct. The high priest, upon whom the anointing oil was poured and consecrated to serve in the tabernacle, was instructed not to uncover his head or tear his clothes. These actions were seen as signs of mourning or distress in ancient Hebrew culture. By prohibiting the high priest from engaging in these practices, God established a symbol of dignity and sanctity for the office of the high priest. This command emphasized the importance of reverence and honor for the priesthood and for the duties performed in service to God. The high priest was to maintain a sense of sacredness and distinctiveness in his role, and his attire and actions were to reflect this divine appointment. This verse serves as a reminder of the unique position of the high priest and the solemn responsibilities entrusted to him in the worship of God.
Leviticus 21:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he that is the high priest among his brethren, upon whose head the anointing oil is poured, and that is consecrated to put on the garments, shall not let the hair of his head go loose, nor rend his clothes;
World English Bible
“‘He who is the high priest among his brothers, upon whose head the anointing oil is poured, and that is consecrated to put on the garments, shall not let the hair of his head hang loose, nor tear his clothes;
Douay-Rheims
The high priest, that is to say, the priest who is the greatest among his brethren, upon whose head the oil of unction hath been poured; and whose hands have been consecrated for the priesthood; and who hath been vested with the holy vestments. He shall not uncover his head: he shall not rend his garments.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Also ye hie Priest among his brethren, (vpon whose head the anointing oyle was powred, and hath consecrated his hand to put on the garments) shall not vncouer his head, nor rent his clothes,