Old Testament
Leviticus 21:9
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If a priest's daughter dishonors herself by becoming a prostitute, she disgraces her father. She must be burned with fire.
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And the daughter of any priest, if she profane herself by playing the whore, she profaneth her father: she shall be burnt with fire.
What Leviticus 21:9 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse addresses the serious consequences for a priest's daughter who engages in prostitution. In ancient Israel, the priesthood was held to a high standard of holiness, and the actions of a priest's family member could reflect poorly on the entire family and their ministry. The punishment of being burned with fire signifies the severity of the offense, emphasizing the importance of maintaining purity and honor within the priestly lineage. This harsh penalty illustrates the cultural and religious values of the time, where sexual immorality was seen as a direct affront to God and the community. The verse serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with certain roles and the impact of personal choices on one's family and community.
How to apply Leviticus 21:9 to your life
While the cultural context differs today, this verse highlights the importance of personal integrity and the impact of our actions on our families. It encourages individuals to consider how their choices reflect on their loved ones and to strive for a life that honors both themselves and their families.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 21:9 mean?
Leviticus 21:9 means that if a priest's daughter engages in prostitution, she brings shame to her father and the priestly family. The verse emphasizes the high standards of holiness expected from those in the priesthood and the severe consequences for actions that violate these standards.
What is the punishment in Leviticus 21:9?
The punishment in Leviticus 21:9 for a priest's daughter who becomes a prostitute is to be burned with fire. This reflects the seriousness of the offense and the cultural values regarding sexual morality and family honor at that time.
What does 'profaneth her father' mean in Leviticus 21:9?
'Profaneth her father' in Leviticus 21:9 means that the daughter's actions bring disgrace and dishonor to her father, who is a priest. It highlights the impact of her behavior on the family's reputation and the priestly role.
Why is sexual immorality addressed in Leviticus 21:9?
Sexual immorality is addressed in Leviticus 21:9 because it was viewed as a serious offense that could tarnish the holiness of the priestly family. The verse underscores the importance of maintaining moral integrity within the community.
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