Not to sacrifice blemished animals even if offered by non-Jews

This mitzvah prohibits offering blemished animals on the Mizbeach even if they were brought by non-Jews as gifts or sacrifices. While non-Jews were permitted to bring offerings to Hashem, the same standard of perfection applies to their korbanot as to those of Israel. The altar is reserved for complete, unblemished offerings that reflect the sanctity of Hashem’s service.

Rambam emphasizes that the Torah explicitly warns against accepting such animals, ensuring that the Temple’s service remains untainted. Sefer HaChinuch explains that Hashem’s honor requires consistency: blemished offerings dishonor the altar regardless of the source.

The Talmud notes that this mitzvah reflects the universal nature of reverence toward Hashem — holiness is not diminished because of the one who brings the korban. Ramban adds that the Torah highlights “from the hand of a stranger” to stress that no exceptions exist when it comes to preserving sanctity.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Hilchot Issurei Mizbeach 3:3): States that blemished offerings from non-Jews are disqualified just like those from Israelites.
• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 291): Explains that the honor of the Mizbeach demands perfection universally, without lowering standards for non-Jews.
• Rashi (Lev. 22:25): Interprets “from the hand of a stranger” as including all nations, whose blemished offerings are also unacceptable.
• Talmud (Menachot 73b; Bekhorot 32b): Discusses the rules of korbanot brought by non-Jews, affirming the same disqualifications.
• Ramban: Stresses that Hashem’s sanctity demands wholeness in every case, making blemished offerings unacceptable from anyone.