The Bible verse Leviticus 21:7 from the King James Version (KJV) states, "They shall not take a wife that is a whore, or profane; neither shall they take a woman put away from her husband: for he is holy unto his God."

This verse is part of the Old Testament book of Leviticus, which contains laws and regulations for the ancient Israelites, particularly pertaining to religious rituals and cleanliness. Leviticus 21 specifically addresses the qualities expected of the priests or high priests in their personal conduct and in their relationships, as they were chosen to serve as intermediaries between God and the people.

The verse begins by prohibiting the priests from marrying a woman who is a "whore" or "profane." This requirement is reflective of the holiness and purity expected of the priests. As representatives of God, they were to maintain high moral standards and lead a life that was set apart for God's service. Marrying a woman of questionable reputation would have been seen as a defilement of their sacred position and a betrayal of their commitment to God.

The verse also prohibits the priests from taking a woman who has been put away from her husband. In ancient Israelite society, divorce was permitted, but it was still stigmatized, and a woman who had been divorced may have been regarded with suspicion or considered undesirable as a potential wife. By prohibiting the priests from marrying such a woman, the verse emphasizes the importance of upholding the sanctity of marriage and maintaining social and moral standards within the community.

The underlying theme of Leviticus 21:7 is the concept of holiness and separateness. The priests were expected to live their lives in a manner that set them apart from the rest of society. They were to be examples of moral and spiritual purity, reflecting the character of God to the people. This verse reinforces the idea that those who are called to serve in a leadership or spiritual capacity are held to a higher standard of behavior and are called to live lives that are consistent with the values and principles they represent.

The context of this verse is important for understanding its significance. In ancient Israel, the priests served as mediators between God and the people, offering sacrifices, performing rituals, and teaching the religious laws. As such, they were expected to embody the values and ideals of the community and to demonstrate a strong commitment to their faith. The regulations regarding their personal conduct and relationships were designed to maintain the integrity and purity of the priestly office, ensuring that the sacred duties were performed with the appropriate reverence and respect.

Symbolically, this verse underscores the importance of living a life that reflects the values and principles of one's faith. It serves as a reminder that those in positions of spiritual leadership are called to uphold the standards of holiness and integrity, both in their public ministry and in their private lives. The emphasis on the purity of marriage and the sanctity of relationships also speaks to the broader significance of maintaining strong moral and ethical standards within the community.

In conclusion, Leviticus 21:7 from the King James Version of the Bible outlines the high standards expected of the priests in their personal conduct and relationships. It reflects the broader themes of holiness, moral purity, and the importance of upholding the sanctity of marriage and social standards within the community. As a foundational text in the religious and moral traditions of Judaism and Christianity, this verse continues to serve as a guiding principle for those in positions of spiritual leadership and for all believers in their personal and relational lives.