Leviticus 22:14
And if a man eat of the holy thing unwittingly, then he shall put the fifth part thereof unto it, and shall give it unto the priest with the holy thing.
Leviticus 22:14 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Leviticus, it outlines the procedure for handling a situation where a man unknowingly consumes a portion of the holy offerings dedicated to the Lord. The individual must make amends by adding a fifth of the value of the holy thing he consumed and giving it to the priest along with the holy item. This act of restitution is meant to highlight the importance of treating sacred items with the utmost respect and care. It also serves as a reminder of the need for individuals to be mindful and cautious in their interactions with holy objects and spaces. By following this directive, the individual demonstrates their commitment to honoring and upholding the sanctity of the offerings dedicated to the Lord. This verse underscores the significance of taking responsibility for one's actions and seeking to rectify any unintentional transgressions committed in relation to sacred rituals and practices.
Theological Overview
In this verse from Leviticus 22:14, the theological interpretation revolves around unintentional defilement of holy things. The text outlines the consequences for someone who unknowingly eats a holy portion of food that belongs to the Lord. The individual is required to make restitution by adding a fifth of its value and giving it to the priest along with the holy portion they consumed. This act of unintentional defilement reflects the importance of treating sacred objects and offerings with respect and care. It demonstrates the seriousness of defiling holy things, even if done accidentally. This passage also emphasizes the priestly role in overseeing and ensuring the sanctity of offerings brought to the Lord. The word "unwittingly" highlights the need for purity and reverence in approaching things dedicated to God in the Israelite religious system.
Leviticus 22:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
And if a man eat of the holy thing unwittingly, then he shall put the fifth part thereof unto it, and shall give unto the priest the holy thing.
World English Bible
“‘If a man eats something holy unwittingly, then he shall add the fifth part of its value to it, and shall give the holy thing to the priest.
Douay-Rheims
He that eateth of the sanctified things through ignorance, shall add the fifth part with that which he ate, and shall give it to the priest into the sanctuary.
Geneva Bible (1599)
If a man eate of the holie thing vnwittingly, he shall put the fift part thereunto, and giue it vnto the Priest with the halowed thing.