Definition: Neither shall they take for their wives a widow, nor her that is put away: but they shall take maidens of the seed of the house of Israel, or a widow that had a priest before.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Ezekiel 44:22. It’s a really interesting and somewhat surprising passage about God’s plan for Israel. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: God is saying that He’s choosing specific women – specifically, young women – to be his companions and wives for the people of Israel. It's not just any woman; these are women who have a connection to the Jewish tradition and are considered part of the family lineage. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Neither shall they take for their wives a widow, nor her that is put away…” This means God isn't offering everyone a wife. He’s specifically choosing individuals who are available and willing to be part of his family. It's about selecting people with a specific role within the community. “…but they shall take maidens of the seed of the house of Israel, or a widow that had a priest before.” This is the key part. God wants to create a new covenant – a relationship with His people – and he’s choosing women who have a strong connection to the Jewish faith. Let's break down the “maidens of the seed of the house of Israel” further: “The seed of the house of Israel” - This refers to the lineage of the ancestors of the Israelites, the people God chose to bless. It’s a symbol of their heritage and connection to the divine. "A widow that had a priest before" : This suggests that women who were previously involved in religious rituals or traditions – particularly those with a deep understanding of the Jewish law – would be particularly valuable. They likely have a strong sense of faith and commitment to God's ways. What’s the Purpose? The verse is designed to strengthen the covenant relationship between God and His people. It shows that God values these women, recognizes their worth, and wants to build a new, lasting family with them. It’s about creating a deeper, more meaningful connection through faith and tradition. Important Note: This is a complex verse from ancient scripture, and there's been a lot of interpretation over the centuries. It doesn't necessarily mean that these women will literally marry and have children like in the Old Testament. It’s about establishing a special bond and strengthening the spiritual foundation of Israel. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail with examples? Discuss its historical context (when was it written, who wrote it)? Talk about what this verse might symbolize for Christians?