Old Testament

Leviticus 21:9

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

This verse addresses the serious consequences for a priest's daughter who engages in prostitution.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness
CBTClear Bible Translation

If a priest's daughter dishonors herself by becoming a prostitute, she disgraces her father. She must be burned with fire.

KJVKing James Version

And the daughter of any priest, if she profane herself by playing the whore, she profaneth her father: she shall be burnt with fire.

Verse Analysis

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

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.

The Book of Leviticus
Book Summary

The Book of Leviticus

Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering

The LORD calls to Moses from the tabernacle and gives instructions for the burnt offering. A man who brings a burnt offering from the herd presents a male without blemish at the door of the tabernacle. He lays his hand on the head of the offering, kills it, and Aaron's sons the priests sprinkle the blood around the altar. The animal is flayed and cut into pieces, and the whole is burned on the altar as a sweet savor to the LORD.

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