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Leviticus 21:14

A widow, or a divorced woman, or profane, or an harlot, these shall he not take: but he shall take a virgin of his own people to wife.

Leviticus 21:14 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse you are referring to is found in the Bible, specifically in the book of Leviticus. In this verse, it is stated that a priest should not marry a widow, a divorced woman, a profane woman, or a harlot. Instead, the priest is instructed to take a virgin from his own people as his wife. This directive was put in place to uphold the purity and sanctity of the priestly lineage. The reasoning behind this command may stem from the belief that a virgin wife would be more likely to maintain the religious and moral standards required of a priest's family. By marrying a virgin from his own people, the priest is seen as upholding the traditions and values of his community. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining purity and obedience to God's laws within the priesthood.

Theological Overview

The verse provided carries implications beyond its literal interpretation. In a theological sense, it reflects the Old Testament laws and cultural norms of ancient Israel regarding marriage. The verse emphasizes the importance of marrying within one's own people and community, highlighting the significance of preserving one's heritage and identity. It also underscores the value placed on purity and holiness, as seen in the prohibition against taking widows, divorced women, or those deemed profane or harlots as wives. This requirement aimed to maintain the sanctity of marriage and uphold the standards set by God for His people. Furthermore, the emphasis on marrying a virgin signifies the significance of entering into marriage with someone who is untainted and pure. The verse can serve as a reminder for readers to consider the cultural context and theological significance of biblical laws and commands, even as they engage with the text in a contemporary setting.

Leviticus 21:14 in other translations

American Standard Version

A widow, or one divorced, or a profane woman, a harlot, these shall he not take: but a virgin of his own people shall he take to wife.

World English Bible

A widow, or one divorced, or a woman who has been defiled, or a prostitute, these he shall not marry: but a virgin of his own people shall he take as a wife.

Douay-Rheims

But a widow or one that is divorced, or defied, or a harlot, he shall not take: but a maid of his own people.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But a widowe, or a diuorced woman, or a polluted, or an harlot, these shall he not marrie, but shall take a maide of his owne people to wife: