In those versions with two levels of section headings, a new subheading may be introduced here. It is at this point that the subject of deformities in priests is begun. The effect of this passage is to disqualify all abnormal descendants of Aaron from the priesthood.

Said to Moses: see 4.1.

Say …: see 1.2.

Throughout their generations: this has been shifted to the end of verse 17 in Good News Translation and translated as a separate sentence: “This applies for all time to come.”

A blemish: this word is used five times in the next seven verses. The Revised Standard Version rendering may be misleading. Most versions translate it “defect,” but since the context clearly defines it as a physical matter, Good News Translation translates more clearly “any physical defects.” Moffatt has “is disfigured.”

Bread: that is, “food.” See verses 6 and 8 above.

Quoted with permission from Péter-Contesse, René and Ellington, John. A Handbook on Leviticus. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1990. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .