Leviticus 22:23

The rules for voluntary offerings were less strict, allowing the use of a deformed animal. But fulfilling a vow still required an animal that was not injured or sick. God would not accept a sacrifice that a person could not eat or that was not a whole animal.

This section, which discusses priestly rules, six times repeats the phrase I am the Lord who sanctifies (Leviticus 21:15, 23; 22:9, 16, 32; see also 21:8). These words emphasize the link between God's holiness and the holiness expected of priests. This extended to all of Israel (see 8:10; 11:44–45; 19:2). The text specifically addresses priests in 21:1–22:16, while including both clergy and common people in 22:17–33.