Leviticus 22 focuses on the regulations regarding the sanctity and purity of the offerings presented to the Lord by the priests and the people of Israel. The chapter begins by emphasizing the importance of the priests maintaining their holiness and avoiding any defilement while handling the holy offerings. It highlights that the priests, as representatives of the people, must approach God with reverence and ensure that they themselves are ceremonially clean.
The chapter goes on to outline various restrictions and requirements for the offerings brought to the tabernacle. It establishes guidelines for animals that are acceptable as sacrifices, emphasizing that they must be without blemish or defect. Additionally, it stipulates that both the priests and their immediate families can partake in the holy offerings, but temporary residents, hired servants, and those who are unclean cannot partake.
Leviticus 22 also addresses the issue of unintentional violations of the holy offerings and prescribes specific rituals for atonement in such cases. It highlights the need for restitution and emphasizes the seriousness of defiling the holy offerings.
To delve deeper into the context and significance of each verse in Leviticus 22, click the links below: