Old Testament
Leviticus 22:13
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"But if a priest's daughter becomes a widow or gets divorced and has no children, and she returns to live in her father's house as she did when she was young, she may eat from her father's food again. No outsider, however, may eat any of it."
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But if the priest’s daughter be a widow, or divorced, and have no child, and is returned unto her father’s house, as in her youth, she shall eat of her father’s meat: but there shall no stranger eat thereof.
What Leviticus 22:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 22:13, the text addresses the situation of a priest's daughter who has become a widow or divorced and has no children. If she returns to her father's home, she is allowed to eat from her father's food, which is considered holy. This provision highlights the importance of family and the special status of the priestly family. However, it also emphasizes that outsiders, or those not part of the priestly family, are not permitted to partake in this food. This reflects the boundaries set around sacred things and the privileges granted to those within the priestly lineage. The verse underscores the care for women in vulnerable situations, ensuring they have support and sustenance from their family, while also maintaining the sanctity of the priestly offerings.
How to apply Leviticus 22:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to support family members in difficult situations, ensuring they have the care and resources they need. It also reminds us to respect the boundaries of sacred things in our lives, recognizing the importance of community and family ties.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Keep studying Leviticus 22:13
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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 22:13 mean?
Leviticus 22:13 explains that if a priest's daughter becomes a widow or is divorced without children, she can return to her father's house and eat from his food, which is holy. This highlights the importance of family support and the privileges of the priestly family.
What is the significance of a priest's daughter in Leviticus 22:13?
In this verse, a priest's daughter holds a special status within her family, allowing her to eat sacred food if she returns home after losing her husband or getting divorced. This reflects the care for women in vulnerable situations and the importance of family ties.
Why can't outsiders eat the food mentioned in Leviticus 22:13?
The verse specifies that no outsider may eat the priest's food to maintain the sanctity of what is considered holy. This establishes clear boundaries around sacred offerings and privileges granted to the priestly family.
How does Leviticus 22:13 relate to family support?
Leviticus 22:13 emphasizes the need for family support by allowing a priest's daughter in distress to return home and receive sustenance. It illustrates the responsibility of families to care for their members during difficult times.
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