The offering of a bull and two rams is a significant ritual described in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of the consecration of priests and the establishment of the Levitical priesthood. This ritual is detailed in the Book of Exodus, where God provides Moses with specific instructions for the ordination of Aaron and his sons as priests.

Biblical Context

The primary reference to the bull and two rams is found in Exodus 29 and Leviticus 8. These chapters outline the procedures for the consecration of Aaron and his sons, marking the beginning of the priestly service in the Tabernacle. The ritual underscores the importance of holiness, atonement, and dedication in the service of God.

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."

The Bull

The bull is offered as a sin offering, symbolizing atonement and purification. The sin offering is a critical component of the consecration process, emphasizing the need for the priests to be cleansed from sin before they can serve in the holy capacity. The bull's blood is applied to the altar, signifying the purification of the altar and the sanctification of the priests.

Exodus 29:10-12 : "You are to bring the bull to the front of the Tent of Meeting, and Aaron and his sons are to lay their hands on its head. You are to slaughter the bull before the LORD at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. Take some of the bull’s blood and apply it to the horns of the altar with your finger; then pour out the rest of the blood at the base of the altar."

The Two Rams

The first ram is offered as a burnt offering, symbolizing complete dedication and surrender to God. The burnt offering is entirely consumed by fire, representing the total commitment of the priests to their divine service.

Exodus 29:15-18 : "Take one of the rams, and Aaron and his sons shall lay their hands on its head. You are to slaughter the ram, take its blood, and sprinkle it on all sides of the altar. Cut the ram into pieces, wash the entrails and legs, and place them with its head and other pieces. Then burn the whole ram on the altar. It is a burnt offering to the LORD, a pleasing aroma, an offering made by fire."

The second ram, known as the ram of ordination, is used in a unique ritual that involves the application of its blood to Aaron and his sons. This act signifies the consecration and sanctification of the priests for their sacred duties.

Exodus 29:19-21 : "Take the other ram, and Aaron and his sons shall lay their hands on its head. Slaughter the ram, take some of its blood, and put it on the right earlobes of Aaron and his sons, on the thumbs of their right hands, and on the big toes of their right feet. Then sprinkle the blood on the altar on all sides. And take some of the blood from the altar and some of the anointing oil, and sprinkle it on Aaron and his garments, as well as on his sons and their garments. In this way, he and his garments will be consecrated, as well as his sons and their garments."

Theological Significance

The offering of the bull and two rams is rich in theological meaning. It highlights the necessity of atonement, the call to holiness, and the dedication required of those who serve in the presence of God. The ritual underscores the gravity of sin and the need for purification, while also pointing to the complete devotion expected of the priests. This consecration ceremony foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the perfect High Priest, who offers Himself for the atonement and sanctification of all believers.