Definition: No man that hath a blemish of the seed of Aaron the priest shall come nigh to offer the offerings of the LORD made by fire: he hath a blemish; he shall not come nigh to offer the bread of his God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 21:21. It’s a pretty serious and important passage about purity and holiness in the Jewish tradition. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse deals with priests and offering rituals – specifically, the bread and incense that was used to honor God. It says that anyone who has a “blemish” (a problem or imperfection) in their bloodline, as connected to the priesthood of Aaron, is completely excluded from participating in these sacred rituals. Let’s break it down piece by piece: “No man that hath a blemish of the seed of Aaron the priest shall come nigh to offer…” This means anyone who has a genetic connection to someone who was part of the priestly family – specifically, someone descended from Aaron – is forbidden. The word "blemish" means something that is wrong or imperfect. “…to offer the offerings of the LORD made by fire:” This refers to the bread and incense used in religious ceremonies. “Made by fire” implies they were prepared with a special method, likely involving smoke and heat – a symbol of God’s presence and holiness. “He hath a blemish; he shall not come nigh to offer the bread of his God.” This is the crucial part. It means that if someone has a genetic link to a priest, they are not allowed to participate in these rituals. They're considered "unclean" and therefore excluded from receiving the blessings or gifts associated with these offerings. What does this mean practically? Historically, this verse was part of a system designed to maintain purity within the Jewish community. It aimed to prevent the mixing of priestly blood with those who weren’t chosen for that role. It's a reminder of the importance of being pure in your lineage and actions. Important Context: This verse is found in the Old Testament, specifically in Leviticus. It was part of a larger set of laws and regulations surrounding religious life. In short, this verse highlights the deep holiness and purity required for those who serve God through his priesthood. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points further? For example, would you like me to: Explain why it's considered a significant passage in Jewish tradition? Give an analogy to help understand the concept of "blemish"?