Exodus 40:13

And you are to clothe Aaron with the holy garments, anoint him, and consecrate him, so that he may serve Me as a priest.

Study Bible

And you shall dress Aaron
The act of dressing Aaron signifies a preparation and setting apart for a divine purpose. In Hebrew, the word for "dress" is "לבש" (lavash), which implies not just putting on clothes but being enveloped or clothed with a new identity. This act is symbolic of Aaron's transformation from an ordinary man to one who is set apart for God's service. Historically, this dressing was a public act, signifying to the Israelites that Aaron was chosen by God for a special role.

in the holy garments
The "holy garments" were not merely clothing but were imbued with spiritual significance. The Hebrew word for "holy" is "קדש" (qodesh), meaning set apart or sacred. These garments, described in detail earlier in Exodus, were made according to God's specific instructions, symbolizing purity, glory, and beauty. They served as a constant reminder of the holiness required of those who approach God and the dignity of the priestly office.

anoint him
Anointing, from the Hebrew "משח" (mashach), involves the application of oil, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's presence and empowerment. In ancient Israel, anointing was a common practice for consecrating kings, prophets, and priests, marking them as chosen by God. This act signifies the divine approval and the impartation of God's Spirit, enabling Aaron to fulfill his priestly duties.

and consecrate him
To "consecrate" is to make holy or dedicate to a sacred purpose. The Hebrew word "קדש" (qadash) is used here, indicating a setting apart for God's exclusive use. This consecration was not just a ritual but a profound spiritual transformation, aligning Aaron's life and service with God's will. It underscores the seriousness and sanctity of the priestly role.

so that he may serve Me
The ultimate purpose of Aaron's dressing, anointing, and consecration is service to God. The Hebrew word for "serve" is "שרת" (sharat), which implies ministering or attending to. This service is not merely a duty but a privilege, reflecting a life devoted to worship and obedience. It highlights the relational aspect of the priesthood, where service is an act of love and devotion to God.

as a priest
The role of a priest, or "כהן" (kohen) in Hebrew, is central to the spiritual life of Israel. Priests acted as mediators between God and the people, offering sacrifices and prayers on their behalf. This verse emphasizes the divine calling and responsibility of the priesthood, which is to lead the people in worship and maintain the covenant relationship with God. The priesthood is a foreshadowing of the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who perfectly mediates between God and humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The brother of Moses, chosen by God to be the first high priest of Israel. His role was crucial in mediating between God and the Israelites.

2. Holy Garments
Special clothing designed by God for the priests, symbolizing purity, holiness, and the unique role of the priesthood.

3. Anointing
The act of pouring oil on Aaron, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's empowerment and setting apart for God's service.

4. Consecration
The process of making Aaron holy, dedicating him entirely to God's service, signifying a life set apart for divine purposes.

5. Priesthood
The institution established by God for mediating His covenant with Israel, with Aaron and his descendants serving as the first priests.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Holiness
The holy garments and anointing oil symbolize the purity and holiness required to serve God. As believers, we are called to live holy lives, set apart for His purposes.

God's Calling and Equipping
Just as Aaron was called and equipped for his role, God calls and equips each of us for specific purposes in His kingdom. We should seek to understand and fulfill our unique callings.

The Role of Mediation
Aaron's role as a priest highlights the need for a mediator between God and humanity. Jesus fulfills this role perfectly, and we can approach God confidently through Him.

Symbolism of Anointing
The anointing of Aaron signifies the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. As Christians, we are anointed by the Spirit to carry out God's work in the world.

Priesthood of All Believers
While Aaron's priesthood was specific, the New Testament teaches that all believers are priests, called to represent God to the world and intercede for others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the consecration of Aaron as a priest in Exodus 40:13 relate to the concept of holiness in your own life?

2. In what ways does the anointing of Aaron foreshadow the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer today?

3. How can understanding the role of the Old Testament priesthood enhance your appreciation of Jesus' role as our High Priest?

4. What are some practical ways you can live out your calling as part of the "royal priesthood" mentioned in 1 Peter 2:9?

5. How does the process of consecration and anointing in Exodus 40:13 inspire you to seek God's purpose and empowerment in your daily life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 8
Describes the detailed process of consecrating Aaron and his sons, providing a fuller picture of the priestly ordination.

Hebrews 5
Discusses the role of Jesus as our High Priest, drawing parallels between the Old Testament priesthood and Christ's eternal priesthood.

1 Peter 2:9
Refers to believers as a "royal priesthood," connecting the Old Testament priesthood to the New Testament calling of all Christians.