In the biblical context, the role of the priest is central to the religious and communal life of the Israelites. Priests served as mediators between God and the people, performing sacred rituals, offering sacrifices, and maintaining the sanctity of the tabernacle and later the temple. The priesthood was established by God through Moses, with Aaron and his descendants appointed as the first priests (Exodus 28:1).

Qualifications and Consecration

The priesthood was limited to the tribe of Levi, specifically the descendants of Aaron. The qualifications for priests were stringent, emphasizing holiness and physical perfection (Leviticus 21:17-23). The consecration of priests involved a detailed ceremony, including washing, anointing with oil, and the offering of sacrifices (Leviticus 8:1-36). This consecration set them apart for their sacred duties.

Duties and Functions

1. Offering Sacrifices: One of the primary responsibilities of the priests was to offer sacrifices on behalf of the people. These sacrifices included burnt offerings, sin offerings, and peace offerings, each with specific regulations (Leviticus 1-7). The priests acted as intermediaries, presenting the people's offerings to God.

2. Maintaining the Sanctuary: Priests were responsible for the upkeep and sanctity of the tabernacle and later the temple. This included tending to the altar, the lampstand, and the table of showbread (Exodus 27:20-21; Leviticus 24:5-9).

3. Teaching the Law: Priests were tasked with teaching the Israelites God's laws and statutes. They served as judges in legal matters and were expected to provide guidance based on the Torah (Deuteronomy 17:8-11; Malachi 2:7).

4. Intercession and Blessing: Priests interceded for the people, offering prayers and blessings. The Aaronic blessing, found in Numbers 6:24-26, is a well-known example of a priestly blessing: "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."

5. Purification and Atonement: Priests played a crucial role in rituals of purification and atonement. They conducted ceremonies to cleanse individuals from ritual impurity and performed the annual Day of Atonement rites to atone for the sins of the nation (Leviticus 16).

High Priest

The high priest held a unique position within the priesthood, serving as the chief religious leader. He alone could enter the Most Holy Place, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement, to make atonement for himself and the people (Leviticus 16:2-34). The high priest wore special garments, including the ephod, breastplate, and turban, symbolizing his authority and role (Exodus 28:4-39).

Priestly Lineage and Succession

The priesthood was hereditary, passed down through Aaron's lineage. This hereditary system ensured continuity in the religious practices and maintained the sanctity of the priestly office. However, the Old Testament records instances of corruption and failure among the priests, leading to divine judgment and reform (1 Samuel 2:12-17; Ezekiel 22:26).

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the role of the priest is redefined through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus is described as the ultimate High Priest, who offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin (Hebrews 4:14-16; 9:11-14). This new covenant established by Christ renders the old sacrificial system obsolete, as believers are now considered a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), called to offer spiritual sacrifices and proclaim the excellencies of God.

The priestly roles and responsibilities in the Bible highlight the importance of holiness, mediation, and service in the relationship between God and His people. Through the priesthood, God provided a means for His people to approach Him, receive instruction, and maintain covenantal faithfulness.