In the biblical tradition, the concept of anointed priests holds significant theological and liturgical importance. The anointing of priests is a practice rooted in the Old Testament, signifying their consecration and setting apart for sacred duties in the service of God. This entry explores the biblical foundation, roles, and significance of anointed priests within the context of the Israelite religious system.

Biblical Foundation

The anointing of priests is first detailed in the Book of Exodus, where God commands Moses to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests. In Exodus 28:41 , God instructs, "After you put these clothes on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint them, ordain them, and consecrate them, so that they may serve Me as priests." This anointing was performed with sacred oil, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's empowerment and the priest's dedication to God's service.

The anointing oil itself was a special blend, as described in Exodus 30:22-25 , "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Take the finest spices: 500 shekels of liquid myrrh, half as much (that is, 250 shekels) of fragrant cinnamon, 250 shekels of fragrant cane, 500 shekels of cassia—all according to the sanctuary shekel—and a hin of olive oil. Prepare from these a holy anointing oil, a fragrant blend, the work of a perfumer; it will be a sacred anointing oil.'"

Roles and Responsibilities

Anointed priests in Israel had several key responsibilities. They were mediators between God and the people, offering sacrifices and prayers on behalf of the nation. Leviticus 9:7 highlights this role: "Then Moses said to Aaron, 'Approach the altar and present your sin offering and your burnt offering to make atonement for yourself and the people. Present the offering of the people to make atonement for them, as the LORD has commanded.'"

The priests also taught the Law and maintained the sanctity of the tabernacle and later the temple. In Leviticus 10:11 , God commands Aaron and his sons to "teach the Israelites all the statutes that the LORD has given them through Moses."

Significance

The anointing of priests underscored the holiness required for those who served in God's presence. It was a physical manifestation of their spiritual calling and a reminder of their unique role in the covenant community. The anointing set them apart, not only for ritual duties but also as moral and spiritual exemplars for the people.

The concept of anointed priests also foreshadows the New Testament understanding of Jesus Christ as the ultimate High Priest. Hebrews 4:14 states, "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess." Jesus' priesthood is seen as the fulfillment of the Old Testament priestly system, offering a perfect and eternal sacrifice for sin.

Conclusion

The anointed priests of the Old Testament played a crucial role in the religious life of Israel, serving as intermediaries between God and His people. Their anointing symbolized their consecration and the divine authority bestowed upon them to perform sacred duties. This practice not only shaped the worship and spiritual life of ancient Israel but also pointed forward to the ultimate priesthood of Jesus Christ, who fulfills and transcends the Old Testament priestly office.