Emor Pt 2: Lev. 21:16-22:16
In this section, a cohen who is deformed/crippled, has “leprosy”, or is unclean is forbidden to serve in the Holy Place. This is not due to a moral failing, but a symbolic image, that we serve Yahveh and bring to Yahveh only our best. It is to engender an attitude of serving Yahveh with all one’s heart, soul, mind, and strength, using ones best. But it does not mean that Yahveh despises imperfection. Paul had a thorn in the flesh; a cohen with a club foot may be better as a teacher or mentor than one who is “perfect”. Let each serve wholeheartedly, as Yahveh has created each, for His purpose and in His wisdom.
