Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Leviticus 21:14 mean?
A: Leviticus 21:14 specifies restrictions for a Kohen (priest) regarding whom he may marry. According to Orthodox Jewish interpretation, a Kohen is prohibited from marrying a widow, a divorced woman, a 'profaned' woman (likely referring to a woman who had forbidden relations), or a harlot. He must marry a virgin from among his own people. This law emphasizes the sanctity and purity required of the priestly line.
Q: Why is this verse important in Judaism?
A: This verse is important because it establishes the standards of marital purity for Kohanim (priests), who serve in the Temple and must maintain a higher level of holiness. The Talmud (Yevamot 59a) discusses these restrictions in detail, explaining that a Kohen's unique role requires him to avoid certain marital situations that could affect his spiritual status.
Q: Does this law apply to all Jewish men or only Kohanim?
A: This law applies specifically to Kohanim (priests), not to all Jewish men. Regular Israelites are permitted to marry widows or divorced women, as long as the marriage is otherwise permissible. The Rambam (Hilchot Issurei Bi'ah 17:1) clarifies that these restrictions are unique to the priestly class due to their elevated sanctity.
Q: What is the reason behind these restrictions for Kohanim?
A: Traditional Jewish sources, including Rashi and the Rambam, explain that these restrictions preserve the purity and honor of the priestly line. Since Kohanim serve in the Temple and represent holiness, their marriages must reflect the highest standards. The Midrash (Sifra) also connects this to the idea that a Kohen's offspring must be of unquestionable lineage to maintain the sanctity of the priesthood.
Q: How does this verse apply today if there is no Temple?
A: Even though the Temple is not standing, Orthodox Judaism maintains that Kohanim still retain certain sanctity and must follow these marital restrictions. The Shulchan Aruch (Even HaEzer 6:1) rules that a Kohen today is still forbidden from marrying a widow, divorcee, or other women mentioned in this verse, as the sanctity of the priesthood remains in effect.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Vayikra 21:14) is part of the Torah's laws concerning the sanctity of kohanim (priests), specifically addressing whom a kohen gadol (high priest) may marry. Unlike regular kohanim, who are permitted to marry widows, the kohen gadol is restricted to marrying a betulah (virgin) from among his people.
Interpretation of the Prohibited Marriages
Requirement to Marry a Betulah (Virgin)
The Torah mandates that the kohen gadol must marry a betulah from his own people. Rashi emphasizes that this ensures the highest level of sanctity in his household, as a virgin symbolizes purity and new beginnings. The Talmud (Yevamot 59b) further clarifies that this requirement applies even if she is a convert, provided she has never been married.
Underlying Principles
The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 266) explains that the kohen gadol, who serves in the holiest capacity, must maintain an elevated standard in all aspects of life, including marriage. His union must reflect the utmost sanctity, free from any associations with past relationships or impropriety. This law reinforces the idea that the spiritual leader's personal life must align with his sacred duties.