A priest with a physical defect could not serve at the altar, but he could still eat the holy food. The law creates a distinction: he's excluded from visible, public service, but not excluded from provision. He remains part of the priestly community. He receives.
This is surprisingly generous. Rather than completely excluding someone with a physical limitation, the law provides a way for them to participate. They might not be able to perform the rituals visible to everyone, but they're not abandoned or shamed. They're still supported by the community.
There's an implicit argument here about worth. A person's value isn't determined by their ability to perform public function. The blind priest didn't become worthless when he couldn't serve at the altar. He simply found a different place in the community. For those who've experienced limitation, illness, or change in capability, this is good news. Your value doesn't depend on your productivity or your ability to perform visible roles. You remain part of God's family, still receiving His provision, still valued.
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