1. Leviticus 21:6 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

What is the reasoning behind this command?

Leviticus 21:6 (ESV)

6 They shall be holy to their God and not profane the name of their God. For they offer the LORD’s food offerings, the bread of their God; therefore they shall be holy.

The priests are to be particularly holy because they oversee the ceremonial worship of Israel (see Ezekiel 44:20; Deuteronomy 14:1). As such they are to be circumspect in all areas of life, including burial customs and practices.