Book of Leviticus - Chapter 22 - Verse 10

This verse from Leviticus 22:10 emphasizes the importance of purity and sanctity when it comes to the holy things of the priest. In ancient times, the holy things referred to offerings and sacrifices made to the Lord in the tabernacle or temple. It was essential that only those who were consecrated or dedicated to God could partake in these holy things. This verse specifically states that no stranger, meaning someone outside of the priestly lineage, could eat of the holy things. Even a sojourner or hired servant, who were not of the priestly family, were not permitted to partake in these offerings. This restriction was put in place to maintain the sacredness of the rituals and to ensure that only those who were set apart for God could partake in such holy practices. It served as a reminder to the people of Israel of the importance of honoring God and approaching Him with reverence and purity.

In this verse, the concept of holiness is emphasized through the restriction on who may partake of the holy thing. The term "stranger" refers to those who are not of the priestly lineage, indicating that only those who are consecrated to God in a specific way are permitted to partake of the holy offering. This prohibition extends even to sojourners of the priest or hired servants, highlighting the exclusivity of the holy thing. This verse stresses the importance of maintaining the sanctity of the offerings dedicated to God by ensuring that only those who are authorized to do so partake of them. It serves as a reminder of the reverence and respect that must be shown towards the sacred objects and rituals in the service of God.