The role of the priest in the Bible is a significant one, deeply rooted in the religious and cultural life of ancient Israel. Priests were chosen by God to serve as mediators between Him and His people, performing sacred duties that were essential for maintaining the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The priesthood was established through the line of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and was primarily associated with the tribe of Levi.

Consecration and Holiness

Priests were required to be consecrated and set apart for their sacred duties. This consecration involved specific rituals, including washing, anointing with oil, and the wearing of special garments (Exodus 29:1-9). The holiness of the priests was paramount, as they were to reflect the holiness of God Himself. Leviticus 21:6 states, "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."

Sacrificial Duties

One of the primary responsibilities of the priests was to offer sacrifices on behalf of the people. These sacrifices were central to the worship and atonement practices of Israel. The Book of Leviticus outlines various types of offerings, including burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings (Leviticus 1-7). The priests were responsible for ensuring that these sacrifices were conducted according to the precise instructions given by God.

Teaching and Instruction

In addition to their sacrificial duties, priests were also tasked with teaching the people the laws and statutes of God. They served as instructors in the ways of the Lord, helping the Israelites understand and apply the commandments in their daily lives. Malachi 2:7 emphasizes this role: "For the lips of a priest should preserve knowledge, and people should seek instruction from his mouth, because he is the messenger of the LORD of Hosts."

Intercession and Blessing

Priests acted as intercessors, standing between God and the people to offer prayers and supplications. They were responsible for blessing the people in the name of the Lord, invoking His favor and protection. The Aaronic Blessing, found in Numbers 6:24-26, is a well-known example: "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."

Maintaining the Sanctuary

The priests were charged with the care and maintenance of the Tabernacle, and later the Temple, where God's presence dwelled among His people. This included ensuring the sanctity of the holy place, managing the sacred objects, and overseeing the daily operations of worship. Numbers 18:5 highlights this duty: "You are to perform the duties of the sanctuary and of the altar, so that wrath will not fall on the Israelites again."

Judicial Functions

In certain cases, priests also served in a judicial capacity, helping to resolve disputes and interpret the law. Deuteronomy 17:9-11 instructs the Israelites to consult the priests in difficult legal matters, emphasizing their role as arbiters of God's justice.

Moral and Ritual Purity

Priests were held to high standards of moral and ritual purity. They were required to avoid defilement from contact with the dead, certain foods, and other sources of impurity. Leviticus 21 outlines specific regulations regarding their conduct, family life, and physical condition, underscoring the importance of their role as representatives of God's holiness.

The priestly duties and responsibilities were integral to the spiritual life of Israel, serving as a constant reminder of God's presence and the need for holiness among His people. Through their service, the priests facilitated the worship and covenant relationship between God and His chosen nation.