King James Version
What Does Leviticus 22:10 Mean?
“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.”
Context
8
That which dieth of itself, or is torn with beasts, he shall not eat to defile himself therewith: I am the LORD.
9
They shall therefore keep mine ordinance, lest they bear sin for it, and die therefore, if they profane it: I the LORD do sanctify them.
10
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.
11
But if the priest buy any soul with his money, he shall eat of it, and he that is born in his house: they shall eat of his meat. with: Heb. with the purchase of his money
12
If the priest's daughter also be married unto a stranger , she may not eat of an offering of the holy things. a stranger: Heb. a man a stranger
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) **There shall no stranger eat of the holy thing.**—By “stranger” here is meant a non-Aaronite who was a stranger to the priestly family, though he was an Israelite, or even a Levite. The holy things are the peace offerings. (See Leviticus 7:30.)
**A** **sojourner of the priest.**—This, during the second Temple, was a Hebrew servant whose ear had been pierced, and who thus became his master’s property till the year of jubile. (See Exodus 21:6.)
**Or an hired servant.**—That is, a Hebrew servant who is hired for several years, and who goes out free after six years. (See Exodus 21:2.) Neither of them was the property of the priest, though his labour and services belonged to him. As these Hebrew servants could not be bought with money like a heathen slave, they were treated like strangers, or non-Aaronites, and hence were not permitted to partake of the holy food.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 22:10 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 22:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge