Dwarf
/dworf/
Summary
A person of unusually small stature or, in the Levitical context, one emaciated by disease—disqualified from priestly service at the altar.
☩Priestly Disqualification
Among the physical conditions that disqualified a descendant of Aaron from officiating at the altar was being a 'dwarf.' The Hebrew word dak means 'beaten small' or 'lean,' suggesting emaciation rather than simply short stature. Such a person could eat of the holy food but could not approach to offer sacrifices. These regulations emphasized the perfection required in those who represented the people before God.
Key verses:Leviticus 21:20
Related Verses1 mention
Leviticus· 1 verse
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Dwarf," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Dwarf," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. II (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).