“They shall not make baldness upon their head, neither shall they shave off the corner of their beard, nor make any cuttings in their flesh.”
This verse is part of a larger passage in Leviticus that outlines specific regulations and requirements for the priests, who were descendants of Aaron and were responsible for performing the sacred duties in the tabernacle and later the temple. The purpose of these regulations was to maintain a high standard of holiness and set the priests apart from the rest of the people of Israel.
Prohibition against making baldness upon the head:This instruction implies that the priests were not to shave their heads completely, leaving them bald. It is believed that this practice may have been associated with pagan mourning rituals or acts of humiliation. By prohibiting this practice, the priests were to maintain a dignified appearance and avoid participating in pagan customs.
Prohibition against shaving off the corner of the beard:The priests were also instructed not to shave off the edges or corners of their beards. This command emphasises the importance of maintaining the natural appearance of their beards and not altering it in any way. Again, this regulation helped distinguish the priests from the surrounding cultures where such practices might have been common.
Prohibition against making any cuttings in their flesh:This prohibition refers to self-inflicted cuttings or markings on the body, which were often associated with pagan mourning practices or idolatrous rituals. The priests were to avoid such practices and maintain their bodies as sacred vessels dedicated to God’s service.
These regulations were specific to the priests and were meant to reinforce the idea that they were consecrated to God and set apart for His service. By adhering to these instructions, the priests would demonstrate their commitment to holiness and serve as a model for the people of Israel.
It’s important to note that the ceremonial laws and regulations outlined in Leviticus, including Leviticus 21:5, were part of the Old Covenant given to the Israelites. With the coming of Jesus Christ, the New Covenant was established, and Christians are no longer bound by the ceremonial laws of the Old Testament. However, the principles of holiness, devotion, and separation from worldly practices still remain relevant for believers today.
In summary, Leviticus 21:5 provides instructions regarding the appearance and practices of the priests. It emphasises the importance of maintaining a distinct and holy appearance, avoiding participation in pagan customs, and preserving their bodies as sacred vessels dedicated to God’s service.
