Old Testament
Leviticus 22:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Leviticus 22:10, the text emphasizes the importance of maintaining the sanctity of sacred food designated for the priests and their families.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
"No outsider may eat the sacred food. This includes anyone staying temporarily with a priest and any hired worker."
There shall no stranger eat of the holy thing: a sojourner of the priest, or an hired servant, shall not eat of the holy thing.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 22:10, the text emphasizes the importance of maintaining the sanctity of sacred food designated for the priests and their families. It clearly states that no outsider, including temporary residents or hired workers, is allowed to partake in these holy offerings. This rule underscores the distinction between those who are part of the priestly community and those who are not. The sacred food is reserved for those who have a specific role in the religious practices of Israel, ensuring that the holiness of these offerings is preserved. This regulation reflects the broader theme of holiness in the Israelite community, where certain privileges and responsibilities are tied to one's status and role within the community. By restricting access to sacred food, the text reinforces the idea that holiness must be respected and that there are boundaries in religious practices that must not be crossed.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Leviticus 22:10 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of respecting sacred traditions and boundaries within our communities. It encourages us to understand our roles and responsibilities, ensuring that we honor what is considered holy and maintain the integrity of our spiritual practices.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 22:10 mean?
Leviticus 22:10 means that only those within the priestly community can eat the sacred food. It establishes boundaries to maintain the holiness of these offerings, ensuring that outsiders, including temporary residents and hired workers, are excluded from partaking.
What is the significance of sacred food in Leviticus 22:10?
The sacred food in Leviticus 22:10 represents the offerings set apart for God and the priests. This verse highlights the importance of preserving the sanctity of these offerings by restricting access to only those who are part of the priestly community.
Who is considered an outsider in Leviticus 22:10?
An outsider in Leviticus 22:10 refers to anyone who is not part of the priestly family, including temporary residents and hired workers. This distinction emphasizes the exclusivity of the sacred food to those with specific religious roles.
What are the boundaries mentioned in Leviticus 22:10?
The boundaries in Leviticus 22:10 refer to the restrictions placed on who can eat the sacred food. It establishes that only priests and their immediate families can partake, reinforcing the concept of holiness in religious practices.

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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