Ezra 6:20

All the priests and Levites had purified themselves and were ceremonially clean. And the Levites slaughtered the Passover lamb for all the exiles, for their priestly brothers, and for themselves.

Study Bible

All the priests and Levites
This phrase emphasizes the unity and collective responsibility of the religious leaders in Israel. The priests and Levites were descendants of Levi, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, specifically set apart for religious duties. Historically, the Levites assisted the priests in temple services, and their collaboration here signifies a unified effort in restoring proper worship practices after the Babylonian exile. This unity is a powerful reminder of the importance of communal faithfulness and dedication to God's commands.

had purified themselves
The act of purification was essential for the priests and Levites to perform their duties. In the Hebrew context, purification involved various rituals to cleanse oneself from ceremonial impurity, often involving washing with water, offering sacrifices, and abstaining from certain activities. This purification underscores the holiness required to approach God and serve in His temple, reflecting the broader biblical theme of God's holiness and the need for His people to be set apart.

were ceremonially clean
Being ceremonially clean was a state required for participation in religious activities, especially significant events like the Passover. This cleanliness was not just physical but also spiritual, symbolizing a heart and life dedicated to God. The emphasis on ceremonial cleanliness highlights the importance of inner purity and righteousness in worship, a theme echoed throughout Scripture.

And the Levites slaughtered the Passover lamb
The Levites' role in slaughtering the Passover lamb is significant. The Passover lamb was central to the Passover celebration, commemorating Israel's deliverance from Egypt. The act of slaughtering the lamb was a sacred duty, symbolizing the sacrifice necessary for redemption. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, as described in the New Testament.

for all the exiles
The mention of "all the exiles" highlights the inclusive nature of this Passover celebration. After returning from Babylonian captivity, the exiles were re-establishing their identity as God's chosen people. This act of worship was a reaffirmation of their covenant relationship with God, reminding them of His faithfulness and their collective identity as His people.

for their brothers the priests
This phrase indicates the mutual service and support among the religious leaders. The Levites serving their "brothers the priests" reflects the biblical principle of serving one another in love and unity. It also underscores the interconnectedness of the community of faith, where each member plays a vital role in the worship and service of God.

and for themselves
The inclusion of "and for themselves" signifies the personal responsibility each Levite had in the worship process. It reminds us that while serving others is crucial, personal devotion and purity are equally important. This balance of communal and personal faithfulness is a recurring theme in Scripture, encouraging believers to maintain their own spiritual health while serving the broader community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests and Levites
These are the religious leaders responsible for performing the temple rituals and maintaining the spiritual purity of the community. In this verse, they have purified themselves to be ceremonially clean.

2. Exiles
Refers to the Jewish people who had returned from Babylonian captivity. They are the beneficiaries of the Passover sacrifice, symbolizing their renewed covenant with God.

3. Passover Lamb
The sacrificial animal that is central to the Passover celebration, representing deliverance and redemption. The Levites slaughtered it on behalf of the community.

4. Ceremonial Cleansing
A ritual purification process that the priests and Levites underwent to ensure they were fit to perform their religious duties.

5. Jerusalem
The city where the temple was located and where these events took place, symbolizing the restoration of worship and community life.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Purity
Just as the priests and Levites purified themselves, we are called to live lives of spiritual purity, setting ourselves apart for God's service.

Community and Leadership
The Levites' role in slaughtering the Passover lamb for the exiles highlights the importance of spiritual leadership in guiding and serving the community.

Symbolism of the Passover Lamb
The Passover lamb is a foreshadowing of Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. This connection deepens our understanding of redemption.

Restoration and Renewal
The return of the exiles and the celebration of Passover signify a renewal of faith and commitment to God, encouraging us to seek spiritual renewal in our own lives.

Unity in Worship
The collective participation in the Passover underscores the unity of God's people in worship, reminding us of the importance of communal faith practices.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the purification of the priests and Levites teach us about the importance of spiritual preparation in our own lives?

2. How does the role of the Levites in this passage reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?

3. In what ways does the Passover lamb in Ezra 6:20 point to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and how does this enhance our understanding of redemption?

4. How can the return of the exiles and their participation in the Passover inspire us to seek spiritual renewal and restoration in our own communities?

5. What lessons can we learn from the unity of the exiles in worship, and how can we apply these lessons to foster unity within our own church communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The original institution of the Passover, which provides the historical and theological background for the events in Ezra 6:20.

Leviticus 16
Discusses the Day of Atonement and the importance of purification, which parallels the ceremonial cleansing of the priests and Levites.

Hebrews 9
Explains the concept of purification and sacrifice in the New Testament, drawing a connection between the Old Testament rituals and the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.