The role of the priests in the Bible is a significant aspect of the religious and social life of ancient Israel, as outlined in the Old Testament. Priests served as mediators between God and the people, performing sacred rituals, teaching the Law, and maintaining the sanctity of worship. Their duties and responsibilities were divinely ordained, and their service was integral to the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

Priestly Lineage and Ordination

The priesthood was established through the tribe of Levi, specifically the descendants of Aaron, the brother of Moses. God appointed Aaron and his sons as priests, as recorded in Exodus 28:1 : "Bring near to you your brother Aaron and his sons from among the Israelites to serve Me as priests—Aaron, Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar." The ordination of priests involved a consecration process that included washing, anointing with oil, and the offering of sacrifices (Leviticus 8).

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Sacrificial System: Priests were responsible for offering sacrifices on behalf of the people. This included burnt offerings, sin offerings, and peace offerings, which were central to the atonement and worship practices of Israel (Leviticus 1-7). The high priest, in particular, had the unique role of entering the Holy of Holies once a year on the Day of Atonement to make atonement for the sins of the nation (Leviticus 16).

2. Teaching the Law: Priests were tasked with teaching the Israelites the statutes and commandments of God. They served as interpreters of the Law and were expected to guide the people in understanding and obeying God's commands (Leviticus 10:11, Deuteronomy 33:10).

3. Maintaining Ritual Purity: Priests ensured that the sanctuary and the people remained ritually pure. They diagnosed and managed cases of leprosy and other impurities, as outlined in Leviticus 13-14, and oversaw purification rituals.

4. Blessing the People: Priests were given the authority to bless the people in the name of the Lord. 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."

5. Judicial Functions: In certain cases, priests acted as judges, particularly in matters related to the Law and religious observance. They were involved in resolving disputes and ensuring justice according to God's commandments (Deuteronomy 17:8-13).

Priestly Garments and Holiness

The garments worn by priests were symbolic of their holy service and set them apart for their sacred duties. The high priest's attire included the ephod, breastplate, robe, and turban, each with specific significance and instructions for their creation (Exodus 28). These garments were a constant reminder of the holiness required of those who served in God's presence.

The Priesthood in Transition

The role of the priests evolved over time, especially during the periods of the monarchy, exile, and post-exilic restoration. The priesthood faced challenges, such as corruption and neglect of duties, which were addressed by prophets like Malachi (Malachi 2:1-9). Despite these challenges, the priesthood remained a central institution in Jewish religious life.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the role of the priesthood is fulfilled and transformed through the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is described as the ultimate High Priest. Hebrews 4:14 states, "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." Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection rendered the Old Testament sacrificial system obsolete, establishing a new covenant where all believers are considered a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), called to offer spiritual sacrifices and proclaim the excellencies of God.