Leviticus 21:9
And the daughter of any priest, if she profane herself by playing the whore, she profaneth her father: she shall be burnt with fire.
Leviticus 21:9 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Leviticus, it is stated that if the daughter of a priest engages in promiscuous behavior, she brings shame and dishonor not only to herself but also to her father, who is a religious figure. The act of adultery or whoredom is considered a grave offense in the Bible, especially when committed by someone who is supposed to be associated with holiness, such as the daughter of a priest. By profaning herself, she is seen as defiling her father's reputation and breaking the sacred trust that is placed in her as a member of the priestly family. The punishment prescribed in this verse is to be burned with fire, a severe consequence that reflects the seriousness of the offense and the need to maintain purity within the religious community. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding moral standards and the consequences of straying from them, particularly for those in positions of spiritual leadership.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, a deeper theological interpretation reveals the seriousness of moral purity, especially within the context of the priesthood. The mention of a priest's daughter highlights the idea of purity and holiness in a family that is meant to represent and serve God. The concept of profaning oneself by "playing the whore" speaks to the violation of not only personal moral standards but also familial and spiritual ones. The drastic consequence of being burnt with fire symbolizes the severe punishment for defiling one's sacred lineage and responsibility to God. This serves as a warning against the defilement of oneself and one's family, emphasizing the importance of upholding moral standards and honoring one's sacred lineage.
Leviticus 21:9 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the daughter of any priest, if she profane herself by playing the harlot, she profaneth her father: she shall be burnt with fire.
World English Bible
“‘The daughter of any priest, if she profanes herself by playing the prostitute, she profanes her father. She shall be burned with fire.
Douay-Rheims
If the daughter of a priest be taken in whoredom and dishonour the name of her father, she shall be burnt with fire.
Geneva Bible (1599)
If a Priestes daughter fall to play the whore, she polluteth her father: therefore shall she be burnt with fire.