Leviticus 21:8
Thou shalt sanctify him therefore; for he offereth the bread of thy God: he shall be holy unto thee: for I the LORD, which sanctify you, am holy.
Leviticus 21:8 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse emphasizes the importance of sanctifying those who offer the bread of God, highlighting the significance of consecrating individuals who serve in roles of spiritual leadership and service. By sanctifying these individuals, they are set apart and considered holy, reflecting the holiness of God. This act of sanctification recognizes the sacred nature of their service and demonstrates respect for the role they play in representing God to the community. The verse underscores the idea that those who serve in the name of God should be honored and treated with reverence, as they are entrusted with the important task of offering the bread of God to the people. Through sanctification, these individuals are not only consecrated for their service but also reminded of their responsibility to uphold the holiness of God in all that they do. As the verse concludes with the reminder that it is the Lord who sanctifies, it reinforces the idea that ultimate holiness comes from God and is to be reflected in those who serve Him.
Theological Overview
This verse from Leviticus 21:8 speaks to the significance of the role of the priests in ancient Israel. The command to sanctify the priest emphasizes the holiness required for someone who is involved in offering sacrifices to God. The text highlights the priest's unique role as the one who offers the bread of God, symbolizing the provision and sustenance that comes from the presence of the Lord. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the importance of consecration and separation for those who are called to serve in the priesthood. The verse also emphasizes that the holiness of the priest comes from the Lord himself, as God is the one who sanctifies his people. This verse serves as a reminder of the sacredness of the priestly office and the need for those who serve in that capacity to be set apart and dedicated to God.
Leviticus 21:8 in other translations
American Standard Version
Thou shalt sanctify him therefore; for he offereth the bread of thy God: he shall be holy unto thee: for I Jehovah, who sanctify you, am holy.
World English Bible
You shall sanctify him therefore; for he offers the bread of your God. He shall be holy to you; for I Yahweh, who sanctify you, am holy.
Douay-Rheims
And offer the loaves of proposition. Let them therefore be holy because I also am holy: the Lord, who sanctify them.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thou shalt sanctifie him therefore, for he offereth the bread of thy God: he shall be holy vnto thee: for I the Lord, which sanctifie you, am holy.