Exodus 29:37

For seven days you shall make atonement for the altar and consecrate it. Then the altar will become most holy; whatever touches the altar will be holy.

Study Bible

For seven days
The phrase "for seven days" signifies a period of completeness and divine perfection in the Hebrew tradition. The number seven is often associated with God's creation and covenant, as seen in the seven days of creation in Genesis. This period of seven days for consecration underscores the thoroughness and seriousness of the process, ensuring that the altar is fully prepared for its sacred purpose.

you shall make atonement
The Hebrew root for "atonement" is "kaphar," which means to cover, purge, or reconcile. Atonement involves a process of purification and reconciliation with God, highlighting the need for holiness and the removal of sin. This act of making atonement for the altar signifies the necessity of cleansing and sanctifying the place where sacrifices will be offered, ensuring it is acceptable to God.

for the altar
The altar is central to the worship practices of the Israelites, serving as the place where sacrifices are made to God. In the ancient Near Eastern context, altars were seen as points of contact between the divine and human realms. The consecration of the altar emphasizes its role as a sacred space, set apart for divine service and interaction.

and consecrate it
To "consecrate" means to set apart as holy. The Hebrew word "qadash" is used here, indicating a dedication to God’s service. This act of consecration is not merely a ritual but a declaration of the altar's purpose and identity as belonging to God. It reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness, where objects, people, and places are dedicated to God's glory.

Then the altar will be most holy
The phrase "most holy" elevates the status of the altar beyond ordinary holiness. In Hebrew, "qodesh qodashim" is used, indicating the highest level of sanctity. This designation is reserved for things that are directly associated with God's presence and worship, underscoring the altar's critical role in the sacrificial system and its symbolic representation of God's holiness.

whatever touches the altar will be holy
This statement reflects the transformative power of holiness. In the ancient world, contact with something holy could impart holiness to other objects or people. This principle illustrates the contagious nature of holiness and the altar's role as a conduit of divine sanctity. It serves as a reminder of the call to holiness for all who approach God, emphasizing the transformative impact of divine presence in the life of believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the consecration of the altar from God.

2. The Altar
A sacred structure used for sacrifices and offerings to God, central to the worship practices of the Israelites.

3. Consecration Ceremony
A seven-day ritual process to make the altar holy and set apart for God's purposes.

4. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given these laws and instructions as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

5. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, where the altar was located.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Holiness
The consecration of the altar underscores the necessity of holiness in approaching God. As believers, we are called to live lives set apart for His purposes.

The Role of Atonement
The seven-day atonement process signifies the seriousness of sin and the need for purification before God. This points to the ultimate atonement through Christ.

Symbolism of the Altar
The altar represents a place of meeting between God and man, a symbol of worship and sacrifice. In our lives, we must prioritize our spiritual "altars" where we meet with God.

Transformation through Contact
The idea that whatever touches the altar becomes holy can be seen as a metaphor for the transformative power of God's presence in our lives.

Continuity of God's Plan
The consecration rituals in the Old Testament foreshadow the work of Christ, showing the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout Scripture.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the process of consecrating the altar in Exodus 29:37 reflect the seriousness with which God views holiness?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of consecration in our daily lives as believers?

3. How does the idea of atonement in the Old Testament connect to the sacrifice of Jesus in the New Testament?

4. What are some "altars" in our lives today where we can meet with God, and how can we ensure they remain holy?

5. How does understanding the holiness of the altar enhance our appreciation for the role of Jesus as our ultimate High Priest and sacrifice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 8-9
Describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons, paralleling the consecration of the altar, emphasizing the holiness required for service to God.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Discusses the purification through the blood of Christ, drawing a parallel to the Old Testament sacrifices and the ultimate consecration through Jesus.

Isaiah 6:6-7
Illustrates the concept of holiness and purification, as Isaiah's lips are touched with a coal from the altar, symbolizing cleansing and consecration.

Matthew 23:19
Jesus speaks about the altar sanctifying the gift, highlighting the importance of the altar's holiness in worship practices.

1 Peter 2:5
Believers are described as a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices, connecting the idea of consecration to the New Testament church.