Leviticus 22:13

Arabic Bible (GNA) Good News Arabic - 1993 (الترجمة العربية المشتركة)

ولكنَّها إذا صارتْ أرملةً أو مُطلَّقَةً ولا نَسلَ لها، ورَجَعتْ إلى بَيتِ أبـيها كأيّامِ صِباها، فتأكُلُ مِنْ طَعامِ أبـيها الّذي لا يأكُلُ مِنهُ غَيرُ الكاهنِ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Leviticus explains that if a priest's daughter becomes a widow or is divorced and has no children, she can return to her father's home and eat from his provisions. This rule ensures her support and care, but no outsiders can partake of this privilege. The speaker here is the voice of God through Moses, giving clear rules for priestly families.

Explained for Children

Imagine a family where the mom and dad separate, and the mom has nowhere to go. This verse is like saying, 'It's okay for her to come back to her parents' house and eat with them, just like when she was a little kid.' It's about taking care of family members who need help.

Historical Background

Leviticus was written by Moses around 1400 BC for the Israelites. This part of the book outlines rules for priests and their families, ensuring social support and maintaining purity in the priestly lineage, reflecting the cultural norms of that time.

Living It Out Today

In modern terms, this could apply to a situation where an adult child, after divorce or widowhood, returns to their parent's home for support. It highlights the importance of family support networks and the obligation to care for those in need within the family structure.

Topics

• family
• support
• priestly duties
• divorce
• widowhood
• community care

Related Verses

• Exodus 22:22
• Numbers 36:8
• 1 Timothy 5:4
• Luke 7:11-17
• 1 Corinthians 7:39

Frequently Asked Questions

Who benefits from this rule in Leviticus 22:13?

The primary beneficiaries are widows or divorced priest's daughters without children, ensuring they have a place and support within their family.

How does this reflect on ancient Israelite society?

It reflects a society that valued familial support and had specific provisions for those who were vulnerable, like widows and divorced women, within the priestly community.

Can we apply this verse directly to today's situations?

While the specific rules about priests don't directly apply, the principle of providing for family members in need can be seen as a timeless value that can inform modern family and community support systems.

What does this verse say about the role of women in ancient Israel?

It highlights that women had certain rights and protections within the family structure, especially in cases of widowhood or divorce, reflecting a complex social system where women's welfare was acknowledged and provided for.