The "Command to the Priests" refers to the specific instructions and regulations given by God to the Levitical priesthood in the Old Testament. These commands are primarily found in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. The priests, who were descendants of Aaron, were set apart to serve in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple, acting as mediators between God and the people of Israel.

Priestly Duties and Responsibilities

The primary role of the priests was to perform sacrifices and offerings as prescribed by the Mosaic Law. Leviticus 1-7 outlines various offerings, including burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings. Each type of offering had specific instructions that the priests were to follow meticulously. Leviticus 6:9 states, "Command Aaron and his sons, 'This is the law of the burnt offering: The burnt offering shall remain on the hearth on the altar all night until morning, and the fire on the altar must be kept burning on it.'"

In addition to sacrifices, priests were responsible for maintaining the holiness of the sanctuary. They were to ensure that the sacred space was kept pure and that the rituals were conducted according to divine instructions. Leviticus 10:10-11 emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between the holy and the common, and between the clean and the unclean, and teaching the Israelites all the statutes that the LORD had spoken to them through Moses.

Priestly Garments and Consecration

The priests were required to wear specific garments that symbolized their holy service. Exodus 28 provides detailed descriptions of these garments, including the ephod, breastpiece, robe, tunic, turban, and sash. These garments were not only for glory and beauty but also served as a constant reminder of their consecration to God. Exodus 28:2-3 states, "Make holy garments for your brother Aaron, to give him glory and splendor. You are to instruct all the skilled craftsmen, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, to make Aaron’s garments for his consecration, so that he may serve Me as priest."

The consecration of the priests was a significant event, involving sacrifices and anointing with oil. Exodus 29 and Leviticus 8 describe the ordination process, which included washing, dressing in sacred garments, and anointing with oil, signifying their sanctification for service.

Holiness and Conduct

The priests were held to a high standard of holiness and conduct. Leviticus 21 outlines various regulations concerning their behavior, including restrictions on mourning practices, marriage, and physical blemishes. Leviticus 21:6 commands, "They must be holy to their God and not profane the name of their God. For they present the offerings made by fire to the LORD, the food of their God. So they must be holy."

Teaching and Judging

In addition to their ritual duties, priests were also responsible for teaching the Law to the people and serving as judges in certain legal matters. Deuteronomy 17:9 instructs, "Go to the Levitical priests and to the judge who is in office at that time. Inquire of them, and they will give you the verdict." This judicial role underscored their position as spiritual leaders and guardians of the covenant.

The Priestly Blessing

One of the most well-known commands to the priests is the priestly blessing found in Numbers 6:22-27. The LORD instructed Moses to tell Aaron and his sons to bless the Israelites with these words: "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace." This blessing was a powerful reminder of God's favor and presence among His people.

The commands to the priests highlight the importance of holiness, obedience, and reverence in the service of God. These instructions not only governed the religious life of ancient Israel but also pointed to the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin.