Exodus 29:21

And take some of the blood on the altar and some of the anointing oil and sprinkle it on Aaron and his garments, as well as on his sons and their garments. Then he and his garments will be consecrated, as well as his sons and their garments.

Study Bible

And take some of the blood on the altar
The phrase "take some of the blood on the altar" signifies the importance of blood in the consecration process. In Hebrew, the word for blood is "דָּם" (dam), which is a symbol of life and atonement. The altar, a sacred place of sacrifice, represents the meeting point between God and man. The act of taking blood from the altar underscores the necessity of sacrifice for purification and sanctification, pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, whose blood would cleanse humanity from sin.

and some of the anointing oil
The anointing oil, "שֶׁמֶן הַמִּשְׁחָה" (shemen ha-mishchah) in Hebrew, is a symbol of the Holy Spirit and divine empowerment. Oil was used throughout the Old Testament to consecrate priests, kings, and prophets, setting them apart for God's service. The combination of blood and oil in this ritual highlights the dual aspects of cleansing and empowerment necessary for those who serve God, reflecting the New Testament understanding of being washed by the blood of Christ and filled with the Holy Spirit.

and sprinkle them on Aaron and his garments
The act of sprinkling, "הִזָּה" (hizah), is a ritualistic action that signifies purification and consecration. Aaron, as the high priest, represents the mediator between God and the Israelites. Sprinkling the blood and oil on him and his garments signifies the sanctification of his entire being and his role. This act foreshadows the New Testament concept of believers being clothed in the righteousness of Christ, set apart for a holy purpose.

and on his sons and their garments
Aaron's sons, who would also serve as priests, are included in this consecration. This inclusion emphasizes the hereditary nature of the priesthood in Israel and the importance of family in God's covenant community. The garments, often richly adorned, symbolize the dignity and responsibility of the priestly office. This consecration process underscores the need for purity and dedication in those who serve God, a principle that extends to all believers as a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9).

In this way, he and his garments will be consecrated
The Hebrew word for consecrated is "קָדַשׁ" (qadash), meaning to be set apart as holy. The consecration of Aaron and his garments signifies their dedication to God's service. This process of setting apart is not merely ceremonial but deeply spiritual, indicating a transformation that prepares them for their sacred duties. It reflects the Christian understanding of sanctification, where believers are set apart for God's purposes through the work of Christ and the Holy Spirit.

as well as his sons and their garments
The repetition of the consecration for Aaron's sons and their garments reinforces the continuity and communal aspect of the priesthood. It highlights the generational blessing and responsibility within the covenant community. This mirrors the Christian call to discipleship and the passing on of faith and service from one generation to the next, ensuring the perpetuation of God's work and witness in the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The brother of Moses, appointed as the first high priest of Israel. His consecration is central to this passage.

2. Aaron's Sons
They are also consecrated as priests, signifying the establishment of the priestly lineage.

3. The Altar
Represents the place of sacrifice and atonement, central to the worship practices of Israel.

4. Anointing Oil
A sacred mixture used to consecrate priests and objects for holy purposes.

5. Consecration Ceremony
A ritual act of setting apart Aaron and his sons for the service of God, involving blood and oil.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Consecration
Consecration is a vital process of setting apart for God's service. It involves both a divine calling and a human response.

Symbolism of Blood and Oil
Blood signifies atonement and purification, while oil represents the Holy Spirit's presence and empowerment.

Priestly Identity in Christ
As believers, we are called to live as a royal priesthood, consecrated for God's purposes in the world.

Holiness in Daily Life
Just as Aaron and his sons were set apart, Christians are called to live holy lives, reflecting God's character in all they do.

Unity and Blessing
The anointing of Aaron symbolizes unity and blessing among God's people, encouraging believers to seek harmony and peace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the consecration of Aaron and his sons in Exodus 29:21 relate to the concept of being set apart for God's service in the New Testament?

2. What is the significance of using both blood and oil in the consecration process, and how can this symbolism be applied to our spiritual lives today?

3. In what ways does the priestly role of Aaron and his sons foreshadow the priesthood of all believers as described in 1 Peter 2:9?

4. How can understanding the consecration ceremony in Exodus 29:21 enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice and our identity in Him?

5. Reflect on the unity and blessing symbolized by the anointing oil. How can we foster unity within our church communities and families?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 8
Describes the fulfillment of the consecration ceremony, providing more details on the process and significance.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the role of blood in purification and consecration, drawing parallels between the Old Covenant practices and the New Covenant in Christ.

1 Peter 2:9
Refers to believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the priestly consecration to the identity of Christians today.

Psalm 133:2
Compares the anointing oil on Aaron's head to the unity and blessing among God's people.

Revelation 1:5-6
Speaks of Jesus making believers a kingdom and priests, echoing the consecration theme.