Priestly consecration in the Bible refers to the process by which individuals are set apart and dedicated to serve in the priestly office, primarily within the context of the Levitical priesthood established under the Mosaic Covenant. This consecration is a significant event that underscores the holiness and sanctity required of those who minister before God on behalf of the people.

Old Testament Foundations

The primary account of priestly consecration is found in the Book of Exodus, where God commands Moses to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests. This event is detailed in Exodus 28–29 and Leviticus 8–9. The consecration process involved several key elements:

1. Selection and Calling: Aaron and his sons were chosen by God to serve as priests. This divine selection emphasizes that the priesthood is not a human appointment but a calling from God. Exodus 28:1 states, "Now you are to bring near to yourself your brother Aaron and his sons from among the Israelites to serve Me as priests—Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar."

2. Sacrificial Offerings: The consecration ceremony included specific sacrifices, such as a bull for a sin offering and two rams, one for a burnt offering and the other for ordination. These sacrifices symbolized atonement and dedication. Leviticus 8:14-15 describes the sin offering: "Then Moses brought the bull near for the sin offering, and Aaron and his sons laid their hands on its head. Moses slaughtered the bull, took some of the blood, and put it on the horns of the altar on all sides with his finger, purifying the altar."

3. Washing and Anointing: The priests were washed with water, symbolizing purification, and anointed with oil, representing the Holy Spirit's empowerment for service. Exodus 29:4-7 details this process: "Then you shall bring Aaron and his sons to the entrance of the Tent of Meeting and wash them with water. Take the garments and clothe Aaron with the tunic, the robe of the ephod, the ephod itself, and the breastpiece. Fasten the ephod on him with its woven waistband. Put the turban on his head and attach the holy diadem to the turban. Then take the anointing oil and anoint him by pouring it on his head."

4. Clothing in Sacred Garments: The priests were clothed in specific garments that signified their holy office. These garments included the ephod, breastpiece, robe, tunic, turban, and sash, each with symbolic meaning. Exodus 28:2 states, "Make holy garments for your brother Aaron, to give him glory and splendor."

5. Blood Application: Blood from the sacrifices was applied to the right ear, thumb, and big toe of the priests, symbolizing the consecration of their hearing, work, and walk to God. Leviticus 8:23-24 records, "Moses slaughtered the ram and took some of its blood and put it on the lobe of Aaron’s right ear, on the thumb of his right hand, and on the big toe of his right foot."

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the concept of priestly consecration finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is described as the Great High Priest. Hebrews 4:14-15 declares, "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. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin."

Furthermore, the New Testament expands the priestly role to all believers, who are called a "royal priesthood" in 1 Peter 2:9: "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."

Significance and Symbolism

Priestly consecration in the Bible highlights the themes of holiness, service, and divine calling. It underscores the necessity of purity and dedication for those who serve in God's presence. The rituals and symbols associated with consecration point to the greater spiritual realities fulfilled in Christ and the calling of all believers to live consecrated lives in service to God.