Leviticus 8:35

You must remain at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting day and night for seven days and keep the LORD's charge so that you will not die, for this is what I have been commanded."

Study Bible

You must remain
The Hebrew root for "remain" is "שָׁכַן" (shakan), which conveys the idea of dwelling or abiding. This word emphasizes the importance of staying in a designated place, reflecting a commitment to God's instructions. In the context of the priestly consecration, it signifies a period of dedication and preparation, underscoring the seriousness of their divine service.

at the entrance
The phrase "at the entrance" refers to a specific location, the doorway of the Tent of Meeting. This was a sacred space where the divine presence was encountered. The entrance symbolizes a threshold between the common and the holy, a place of transition where the priests were to prepare themselves spiritually for their sacred duties.

to the Tent of Meeting
The "Tent of Meeting" was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites. It served as a central place of worship and a symbol of God's presence with His people. The Tent of Meeting was where Moses communicated with God, and it was the focal point of Israel's religious life, highlighting the importance of divine guidance and instruction.

day and night
This phrase indicates a continuous, unbroken period of time, emphasizing the totality of the priests' commitment. The requirement to remain day and night signifies vigilance and dedication, reflecting the seriousness of their consecration and the need for constant readiness in their service to God.

for seven days
The number seven in the Bible often represents completeness or perfection. The seven-day period of consecration for the priests symbolizes a complete cycle of preparation, purification, and dedication. It reflects the fullness of time required to be set apart for God's service, mirroring the creation week and the Sabbath rest.

and keep the LORD’s charge
The phrase "keep the LORD’s charge" involves obedience to God's commands and responsibilities. The Hebrew word for "charge" is "מִשְׁמֶרֶת" (mishmeret), which implies a duty or obligation. This highlights the priests' role as guardians of God's holiness and the importance of faithfully executing their divine responsibilities.

so that you will not die
This warning underscores the gravity of the priests' duties and the holiness of God. The consequence of death for disobedience reflects the seriousness of approaching God without proper preparation or reverence. It serves as a reminder of the sanctity of God's presence and the need for purity and obedience in worship.

for this is what I have been commanded
This phrase indicates divine authority and instruction. The command comes directly from God, emphasizing the importance of following His directives precisely. It reflects the principle that God's commands are not arbitrary but are given for the well-being and order of His people, ensuring that His holiness is respected and maintained.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is responsible for consecrating Aaron and his sons as priests.

2. Aaron and his sons
The first priests of Israel, who are being consecrated for their priestly duties.

3. Tent of Meeting
The sacred place where God meets with Moses and the priests, and where the consecration ceremony takes place.

4. Consecration Ceremony
A seven-day ritual commanded by God to set apart Aaron and his sons for their priestly service.

5. The LORD’s Charge
The divine command given to Aaron and his sons to remain at the Tent of Meeting and fulfill their duties.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God’s Commands
The importance of following God's instructions precisely, as Aaron and his sons were required to do, highlights the seriousness of obedience in our spiritual lives.

The Role of Consecration
Consecration is a setting apart for holy purposes. As believers, we are called to live consecrated lives, dedicated to God’s service.

The Significance of the Priesthood
The priesthood in Leviticus points to the ultimate priesthood of Christ. Understanding this helps us appreciate the role of Jesus as our High Priest.

The Presence of God
Remaining at the Tent of Meeting symbolizes dwelling in God’s presence. We are encouraged to cultivate a continual awareness of God’s presence in our daily lives.

The Seriousness of Sin and Death
The warning of death for disobedience underscores the gravity of sin and the need for atonement, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the command to remain at the Tent of Meeting teach us about the importance of being in God’s presence?

2. How does the consecration of Aaron and his sons relate to our calling as a "royal priesthood" in the New Testament?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of obedience from this passage to our daily walk with God?

4. How does the role of the Levitical priesthood foreshadow the priesthood of Jesus Christ?

5. What are some practical ways we can consecrate ourselves to God’s service in our current context?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
Provides detailed instructions for the consecration of priests, which is being carried out in Leviticus 8.

Hebrews 7
Discusses the priesthood of Jesus, drawing parallels to the Levitical priesthood and highlighting the fulfillment of the Old Testament priestly system.

1 Peter 2:9
Refers to believers as a "royal priesthood," connecting the concept of priesthood from Leviticus to the New Testament understanding of all believers having a priestly role.