King James Version

What Does Leviticus 21:13 Mean?

Leviticus 21:13 in the King James Version says “And he shall take a wife in her virginity.” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And he shall take a wife in her virginity.”

Leviticus 21:13 · KJV

Context

11

Neither shall he go in to any dead body, nor defile himself for his father, or for his mother;

12

Neither shall he go out of the sanctuary, nor profane the sanctuary of his God; for the crown of the anointing oil of his God is upon him: I am the LORD.

13

And he shall take a wife in her virginity.

14

A widow, or a divorced woman, or profane, or an harlot, these shall he not take: but he shall take a virgin of his own people to wife.

15

Neither shall he profane his seed among his people: for I the LORD do sanctify him.

Read Leviticus 21 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And he shall take a wife in her virginity.

This verse falls within the section on Priestly Holiness. Higher standards for priests due to their sacred role, including restrictions on mourning practices and marriage.


What Leviticus portrayed through types and shadows, Christ fulfilled in reality through His incarnation, perfect life, atoning death, and resurrection.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Higher standards for priests due to their sacred role, including restrictions on mourning practices and marriage. Chapters 17-27, often called the 'Holiness Code,' expand covenant obligations beyond ritual to encompass all of life—sexuality, economics, justice, and relationships. The repeated refrain 'I am the LORD' grounds these laws in God's character and covenant relationship with Israel. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. Ancient sacrificial texts from cultures surrounding Israel demonstrate the widespread practice of animal sacrifice, but Israel's system uniquely emphasized moral atonement over magical efficacy.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what ways does this verse challenge contemporary cultural values or your personal attitudes?
  2. How can you use this verse to worship God more fully, obey Him more faithfully, or love others more sacrificially?
  3. How does this verse help you understand both God's justice and His mercy in salvation?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
וְה֕וּא1 of 4
H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

אִשָּׁ֥ה2 of 4

“a wife”

H802

a woman

בִבְתוּלֶ֖יהָ3 of 4

“in her virginity”

H1331

(collectively and abstractly) virginity; by implication and concretely, the tokens of it

יִקָּֽח׃4 of 4

“And he shall take”

H3947

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Leviticus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Leviticus 21:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Leviticus 21:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Revelation 14:42 Corinthians 11:2Ezekiel 44:22Leviticus 21:7

Test Your Knowledge

Leviticus 21 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterLeviticus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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