The consecration of Aaron and his sons marks a significant event in the establishment of the Levitical priesthood, as detailed in the Book of Exodus and Leviticus. This sacred ceremony was commanded by God to set apart Aaron and his descendants for the priestly service in the Tabernacle, ensuring that the worship and sacrifices of Israel were conducted according to divine ordinance.

Biblical Foundation

The instructions for the consecration are primarily found in Exodus 28-29 and Leviticus 8-9. God commanded Moses to consecrate Aaron and his sons, emphasizing the importance of holiness and obedience in the priestly office. Exodus 28:1 states, "And bring near to you your brother Aaron and his sons with him from among the Israelites to serve Me as priests—Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron’s sons."

Garments and Anointing

The consecration involved specific garments and anointing, symbolizing the sanctity and authority of the priestly role. Exodus 28 details the priestly garments, including the ephod, breastpiece, robe, tunic, turban, and sash, each with symbolic significance. The garments were made "for glory and for beauty" (Exodus 28:2), reflecting the divine nature of their service.

Anointing with oil was a critical part of the consecration, signifying the Holy Spirit's empowerment and the setting apart of the priests for God's service. Exodus 29:7 instructs, "Take the anointing oil and anoint him by pouring it on his head."

Sacrificial Offerings

The consecration ceremony included several sacrificial offerings, each with a distinct purpose. A bull was offered as a sin offering, symbolizing atonement for the priests' sins (Exodus 29:10-14). Two rams were also sacrificed: one as a burnt offering, representing complete dedication to God (Exodus 29:15-18), and the other as a ram of ordination, signifying the priests' consecration (Exodus 29:19-22).

The blood of the ram of ordination was applied to Aaron and his sons' right ears, thumbs, and big toes, symbolizing their total consecration to hear, serve, and walk in God's ways (Exodus 29:20).

Seven-Day Ceremony

The consecration process lasted seven days, underscoring the completeness and perfection of the ordination. Each day, sacrifices were made, and the priests were to remain at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting, signifying their readiness to serve (Exodus 29:35-37).

Significance in Israel's Worship

The consecration of Aaron and his sons established the priesthood as a perpetual institution in Israel, with Aaron as the first high priest. This event underscored the necessity of mediation between God and His people, foreshadowing the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who would offer Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin.

The consecration ceremony highlighted the themes of holiness, obedience, and the necessity of atonement, foundational principles for Israel's worship and relationship with God. Through the priesthood, God provided a means for His people to approach Him, maintain covenantal fellowship, and receive His blessings.