Exodus 40:32

They washed whenever they entered the Tent of Meeting or approached the altar, just as the LORD had commanded Moses.

Study Bible

Whenever they entered
This phrase indicates a repeated and consistent action, emphasizing the importance of ritual purity in the service of God. The Hebrew root for "entered" is "בּוֹא" (bo), which conveys the act of coming or going into a place. In the context of the Tabernacle, this entry was not casual but a sacred act, underscoring the reverence required when approaching God's presence. Historically, this reflects the Israelites' understanding of holiness and the need for preparation before engaging in worship.

the Tent of Meeting
The "Tent of Meeting" refers to the Tabernacle, a portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites. The Hebrew term "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (ohel mo'ed) signifies a place of divine-human encounter. This was where God communicated with Moses and the priests, making it a central location for worship and guidance. Archaeologically, the Tabernacle's design and function prefigure the later Temple in Jerusalem, symbolizing God's desire to dwell among His people.

or approached the altar
The altar was a sacred structure used for sacrifices, symbolizing atonement and worship. The Hebrew word "נָגַשׁ" (nagash) for "approached" implies drawing near with intention and reverence. This act of approaching the altar was not merely physical but spiritual, representing the worshiper's heart posture towards God. The altar's significance is rooted in its role as a place of sacrifice, pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

they washed
Washing was a ritual act of purification, essential for maintaining holiness. The Hebrew root "רָחַץ" (rachats) means to wash or bathe, signifying cleansing from impurity. This practice was a physical representation of spiritual purification, reminding the Israelites of their need for cleanliness before God. In a broader scriptural context, washing prefigures the cleansing from sin offered through Jesus Christ.

as the LORD had commanded Moses
This phrase underscores the divine authority behind the instructions given to Moses. The Hebrew word "צִוָּה" (tzavah) for "commanded" indicates a directive from God, highlighting the importance of obedience to His will. Moses, as the mediator of God's covenant, faithfully conveyed these commands to the people. This obedience to divine instruction is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing the relationship between God's commands and His people's faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and to receive the Law, including the instructions for the Tabernacle.

2. Aaron and his sons
The first priests of Israel, appointed by God to serve in the Tabernacle and perform the rituals and sacrifices.

3. Tent of Meeting
Also known as the Tabernacle, this was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where He would meet with Moses and the priests.

4. The Altar
A sacred place where sacrifices were made to God, symbolizing atonement and worship.

5. The LORD's Command
The divine instructions given to Moses regarding the construction and use of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the requirement for ceremonial washing.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The priests' washing was an act of obedience to God's command. Our lives should reflect a commitment to follow God's instructions as revealed in Scripture.

Spiritual Cleansing
Just as the priests needed physical cleansing, we require spiritual cleansing through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

Approaching God with Reverence
The washing before entering the Tent of Meeting signifies the need to approach God with reverence and purity, recognizing His holiness.

Symbolism of Water
Water symbolizes purification and renewal. In the New Testament, baptism represents the believer's cleansing and new life in Christ.

Role of the Priesthood
The priesthood in the Old Testament points to the priesthood of all believers in Christ, who are called to live holy lives and offer spiritual sacrifices.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of washing before entering the Tent of Meeting reflect the broader theme of holiness in the Bible?

2. In what ways does the requirement for the priests to wash relate to the concept of spiritual cleansing in the New Testament?

3. How can we apply the principle of approaching God with reverence in our daily lives and worship practices?

4. What are some modern-day practices or rituals that help us remember the importance of spiritual purity and obedience to God?

5. How does understanding the role of the Old Testament priesthood enhance our appreciation of Jesus' role as our High Priest?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 8
Describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons, emphasizing the importance of washing and purification in their priestly duties.

John 13
Jesus washes the disciples' feet, illustrating the importance of spiritual cleansing and humility, echoing the purification rituals of the Old Testament.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the new and living way opened through Jesus, highlighting the fulfillment of the Old Testament purification rituals in Christ's sacrifice.