THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
If any individuals who possess no faults and are blameless in their priestly duties happen to fall ill from common and persistent ailments, it is commanded that they should not go unpunished. The Lord spoke to Moses, instructing him to communicate to Aaron and his sons to exercise care regarding the sacred elements of the children of Israel, ensuring that they do not bring dishonor to His holy name through their consecrations. The Lord declared that any of their descendants who is unclean and approaches the offerings designated for the Lord will be cut off from His presence. Additionally, any descendant of Aaron who suffers from leprosy or has an issue shall refrain from consuming the sacred offerings until he is restored to purity.
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Furthermore, anyone who comes into contact with an unclean corpse, has a bodily discharge, or touches any unclean creature, thereby incurring defilement, will remain unclean until evening and must wash his body with water before partaking of the holy provisions. Once the sun sets and he is cleansed, he may partake in the sacred offerings, for they serve as his nourishment. He must avoid eating dead meat or flesh from beasts, lest he become defiled. It is essential that they adhere to the commands to avoid bearing sin and facing death for violating these precepts. The Lord, who sanctifies them, emphasized this.
Those who present sacrifices or make offerings from the holy elements of the children of Israel to God must ensure they do not profane His name by presenting what is unclean or not yet purified. They are forewarned that failure to comply will result in severe consequences. The Lord asserts He is not an idol; sin against Him imposes real accountability, unlike transgressions against stone or wood. Thus, through strong admonishments, He alerts us to be vigilant and wisely outlines the various forms of defilement that can affect us, so that ministers may understand how to maintain integrity and what steps to take to be pleasing and pure before God, thereby leading a life that honors the Lawgiver.