Topical Bible: Laver of Brass: Made of Brazen Mirrors of the Women

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Laver of Brass, also known as the Bronze Laver, holds significant importance in the religious practices and rituals of ancient Israel as described in the Old Testament. This sacred basin was used for ceremonial washing by the priests before they performed their duties in the Tabernacle, and later in the Temple. The laver was a crucial element in maintaining the purity required for service to God, symbolizing the need for spiritual cleanliness.

Biblical Description and Construction

The construction of the Laver of Brass is detailed in the Book of Exodus. According to Exodus 30:18-21 , God instructed Moses to make a bronze basin with a bronze stand for washing. It was to be placed between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, and Aaron and his sons were to wash their hands and feet with water from it before entering the Tent of Meeting or approaching the altar to minister.

A unique aspect of the laver's construction is highlighted in Exodus 38:8 : "He made the basin of bronze and its stand of bronze from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting." This verse indicates that the laver was crafted from the polished bronze mirrors donated by the Israelite women. These mirrors, likely brought from Egypt, were highly reflective and symbolized the transformation of personal vanity into communal sanctity.

Symbolism and Significance

The use of mirrors in the construction of the laver carries deep symbolic meaning. Mirrors, objects of personal grooming and reflection, were repurposed for a holy function, signifying the surrender of personal vanity for the service of God. This act of devotion by the women of Israel underscores the communal effort and sacrifice involved in the construction of the Tabernacle.

The laver itself symbolizes purification and the necessity of holiness in approaching God. The act of washing was not merely a physical cleansing but represented the spiritual purification required to stand in the presence of the Almighty. This ritual washing prefigures the New Testament concept of spiritual cleansing through Christ, as seen in passages such as Ephesians 5:26 , which speaks of being cleansed "by the washing with water through the word."

Role in Worship and Ritual

In the daily life of the Tabernacle, the laver was indispensable. The priests were required to wash their hands and feet before performing any service, as a reminder of the holiness required in their duties. Failure to do so could result in death, as stated in Exodus 30:20-21 : "Whenever they enter the Tent of Meeting or approach the altar to minister by burning an offering made to the LORD, they must wash with water, so that they will not die."

The laver's presence between the altar and the Tent of Meeting signifies the transition from sacrifice to service, emphasizing that purification is necessary before one can enter into the presence of God or offer acceptable worship.

Historical and Theological Context

The laver's construction from the mirrors of the women reflects the broader theme of redemption and transformation found throughout Scripture. It illustrates how God can take what is ordinary or even self-serving and sanctify it for His purposes. This theme resonates with the Christian understanding of sanctification, where believers are called to present themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1).

In the broader context of Israelite worship, the laver served as a constant reminder of the need for purity and the grace of God in providing a means for cleansing. It foreshadows the ultimate purification offered through Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice cleanses believers from sin and allows them to approach God with confidence.

The Laver of Brass, therefore, stands as a testament to the holiness of God, the necessity of purity in worship, and the transformative power of divine grace.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 38:8
And he made the laver of brass, and the foot of it of brass, of the mirrors of the women assembling, which assembled at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.
Torrey's Topical Textbook