Leviticus 8:2

"Take Aaron and his sons, their garments, the anointing oil, the bull of the sin offering, the two rams, and the basket of unleavened bread,

Study Bible

Take Aaron and his sons with him
The Hebrew word for "take" is "קַח" (laqach), which implies a deliberate action of selection and setting apart. This phrase signifies God's sovereign choice of Aaron and his sons for the priesthood, emphasizing the divine calling and consecration necessary for spiritual leadership. Aaron, as the first high priest, and his sons represent the establishment of a hereditary priesthood, which foreshadows the eternal priesthood of Christ. This selection underscores the importance of divine appointment in ministry, reminding believers that true spiritual authority comes from God.

the garments
The Hebrew term "בִּגְדֵי" (bigdei) refers to the sacred vestments designed for the priests. These garments were not merely functional but symbolic, representing holiness, dignity, and the beauty of serving God. Each piece, from the ephod to the breastplate, held spiritual significance, pointing to the righteousness and purity required of those who minister before the Lord. The garments also prefigure the righteousness of Christ, which clothes believers, enabling them to stand before God.

the anointing oil
The Hebrew word "שֶׁמֶן הַמִּשְׁחָה" (shemen ha-mishchah) refers to the sacred oil used for consecration. Anointing with oil in the Old Testament symbolizes the Holy Spirit's empowerment and presence. This act of anointing set Aaron and his sons apart for holy service, marking them as chosen vessels for God's work. In the New Testament, believers are anointed by the Holy Spirit, signifying their sanctification and empowerment for ministry.

the bull for the sin offering
The Hebrew term "פַּר הַחַטָּאת" (par ha-chatat) indicates a sacrificial animal used to atone for sin. The sin offering was essential for purification, acknowledging humanity's inherent sinfulness and the need for atonement. This sacrifice points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who bore the sins of the world, providing a once-for-all atonement. It highlights the gravity of sin and the necessity of a mediator between God and man.

the two rams
The Hebrew "שְׁנֵי הָאֵילִם" (shenei ha-eilim) refers to the rams used in the ordination ceremony. One ram was for the burnt offering, symbolizing complete dedication to God, while the other was for the ordination offering, signifying the consecration of the priests. These sacrifices illustrate the dual aspects of worship: total surrender and divine commissioning. They foreshadow Christ's complete obedience and His role in consecrating believers for service.

and the basket of unleavened bread
The Hebrew "סַל הַמַּצּוֹת" (sal ha-matzot) refers to bread made without yeast, symbolizing purity and the absence of sin. Unleavened bread was a key element in sacrificial offerings, representing sincerity and truth. This bread points to Christ, the Bread of Life, who is without sin and sustains believers spiritually. It serves as a reminder of the call to live a life of holiness and integrity before God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The brother of Moses, chosen by God to be the first high priest of Israel. His role is central in the establishment of the priesthood.

2. Aaron's Sons
They are to serve as priests under Aaron, signifying the beginning of the hereditary priesthood in Israel.

3. The Garments
Special clothing designated for the priests, symbolizing their holy service and separation for God's work.

4. The Anointing Oil
Used to consecrate Aaron and his sons, representing the Holy Spirit's empowerment and sanctification.

5. The Bull for the Sin Offering
A sacrifice for atonement, highlighting the need for purification from sin before serving God.

6. The Two Rams
Used for the burnt offering and the ordination offering, symbolizing dedication and consecration to God.

7. The Basket of Unleavened Bread
Represents purity and the absence of sin, used in the ordination ceremony.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Preparation for Service
Just as Aaron and his sons were prepared and consecrated for their priestly duties, Christians today must prepare their hearts and lives for service to God.

The Role of Sacrifice in Worship
The sin offering and other sacrifices underscore the necessity of atonement and dedication in our relationship with God. Jesus' ultimate sacrifice fulfills these Old Testament requirements.

Holiness and Separation
The garments and anointing oil symbolize holiness and separation. Believers are called to live distinct lives, set apart for God's purposes.

The Continuity of God's Plan
The ordination of Aaron and his sons is part of God's unfolding plan, which finds its fulfillment in Christ. Understanding this continuity enriches our appreciation of God's redemptive work.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the consecration of Aaron and his sons in Leviticus 8:2 reflect the seriousness with which God views the role of spiritual leadership?

2. In what ways can the preparation and consecration of the priests in Leviticus 8:2 inspire us to prepare for our own roles in God's service today?

3. How do the elements used in the ordination ceremony (garments, anointing oil, sacrifices) symbolize aspects of our spiritual lives as Christians?

4. What parallels can we draw between the priesthood of Aaron and the priesthood of all believers as described in 1 Peter 2:9?

5. How does understanding the Old Testament priesthood enhance our appreciation of Jesus' role as our High Priest, as discussed in Hebrews 5:1-4?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28-29
These chapters provide detailed instructions for the priestly garments and the consecration ceremony, offering a broader context for Leviticus 8:2.

Hebrews 5:1-4
Discusses the role of the high priest, drawing parallels between Aaron's priesthood and the ultimate priesthood of Christ.

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