The "Basket of Unleavened Bread" is a significant element in the rituals and offerings described in the Old Testament, particularly within the context of the Levitical priesthood and the sacrificial system. Unleavened bread, or matzah, is bread made without yeast, symbolizing purity and the absence of sin, as leaven is often associated with sin and corruption in biblical symbolism.

Biblical References:

1. Exodus 29:1-3 : "Now this is what you are to do to consecrate them, so that they may serve Me as priests: Take a young bull and two rams without blemish, along with unleavened bread, unleavened cakes mixed with oil, and unleavened wafers anointed with oil. You are to make them out of fine wheat flour. Put them in a basket and present them in the basket, along with the bull and the two rams."

In this passage, the basket of unleavened bread is part of the consecration ceremony for Aaron and his sons as priests. The bread, along with the other offerings, is presented before the LORD as a symbol of dedication and service.

2. Leviticus 8:2 : "Take Aaron and his sons with him, the garments, the anointing oil, the bull for the sin offering, the two rams, and the basket of unleavened bread."

Here, the basket of unleavened bread is again mentioned in the context of the ordination of Aaron and his sons. It is part of the offerings that accompany the anointing and consecration process.

3. Numbers 6:15 : "together with their grain offerings and drink offerings, and a basket of unleavened bread made of fine flour, cakes mixed with oil and wafers coated with oil."

In the Nazarite vow, the basket of unleavened bread is included in the offerings made at the completion of the vow. This highlights the bread's role in various forms of dedication and consecration to God.

Symbolism and Significance:

The unleavened bread in the basket is rich in symbolic meaning. It represents purity, holiness, and separation from sin, aligning with the broader biblical theme of holiness required of those who serve God. The absence of leaven signifies the removal of corruption and the call to live a life set apart for divine purposes.

In the context of the Passover, unleavened bread also serves as a reminder of the Israelites' hasty departure from Egypt, when they did not have time to let their bread rise. This historical and spiritual significance is carried into the rituals of the priesthood, emphasizing readiness and obedience to God's commands.

Ritual Use:

The basket of unleavened bread is used in various sacrificial and ceremonial contexts, including:

· Consecration of Priests: As seen in Exodus 29 and Leviticus 8, the bread is part of the ordination offerings, symbolizing the priests' dedication to their sacred duties.
· Nazarite Vow: In Numbers 6, the bread is part of the offerings made when a Nazarite completes their vow, signifying a return to normal life after a period of special consecration.
· Peace Offerings and Other Sacrifices: Unleavened bread is often included in peace offerings and other sacrifices, representing fellowship with God and the community.

The basket of unleavened bread, therefore, is not merely a ritualistic element but a profound symbol of the covenant relationship between God and His people, underscoring themes of purity, dedication, and divine service throughout the Scriptures.