Leviticus 21:16Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

When one engages with the Old Testament, even now, a curtain remains over Moses' face (2 Cor. 3:15). He speaks radiantly, and the people struggle to endure the brilliance of his countenance (Ex. 34:29-35). However, when we turn to the Lord, the veil is removed, the antiquated letter fades away, and the life-giving Spirit comes forth. For the Lord is Spirit, and the law is spiritual. It is also decreed that they shall not exhibit any imperfections: neither mutilated ears, nor a flawed eye, nor a disfigured nose, nor a lamed leg, nor an unnatural complexion; all these are linked to the defects of the soul. For in humanity, it is not the nature that warrants condemnation, but the will.