How did the Priests consecrate themselves in the Bible?

The role of the priest in the Bible was both sacred and central to Israel’s relationship with God. Priests were tasked with offering sacrifices, maintaining the sanctuary, and mediating between God and the people. However, before a priest could serve, he had to be consecrated—set apart and made holy for divine service.

The process and meaning of priestly consecration are described in detail, especially in the books of Exodus and Leviticus. This article will explore how priests consecrated themselves in the Bible, the rituals involved, and the significance of these actions for both ancient Israel and modern readers.

The Call to Holiness

The concept of consecration in the Bible centers on the idea of being “set apart” for God’s purposes. Priests were chosen from the tribe of Levi, specifically from the family of Aaron, Moses’ brother. God commanded that they be consecrated before serving in the tabernacle or temple. This consecration was not merely symbolic; it involved tangible, detailed rituals that underscored the seriousness of approaching a holy God.

The Rituals of Consecration: Exodus 29 and Leviticus 8

The most comprehensive description of the priestly consecration process is found in Exodus 29 and Leviticus 8. God instructed Moses to carry out this ceremony for Aaron and his sons. The rituals included several key steps:

1. Washing with Water

The ceremony began with Aaron and his sons being washed at the entrance of the Tabernacle (Exodus 29:4; Leviticus 8:6). This washing symbolized the need for purity and cleansing from sin before serving God.

2. Clothing in Sacred Garments

After washing, the priests were clothed in special garments: the tunic, sash, robe, ephod, breastpiece, and turban (Exodus 29:5-9). Each garment had symbolic meaning and set the priests apart visually as God’s representatives.

3. Anointing with Oil

Moses was instructed to anoint the priests by pouring sacred anointing oil on their heads (Exodus 29:7; Leviticus 8:12). This act signified being chosen and empowered by the Holy Spirit for service.

4. Sacrificial Offerings

The consecration included a series of sacrifices. A bull was offered as a sin offering, two rams as burnt and ordination offerings, and unleavened bread as a grain offering (Exodus 29:10-23; Leviticus 8:14-29). The blood of the sacrifices was applied to the altar and, uniquely, to the priests themselves—on their right earlobe, thumb, and toe—symbolizing the consecration of their entire being: hearing God’s word, serving God’s people, and walking in God’s ways.

5. The Laying on of Hands

Aaron and his sons laid their hands on the heads of the animals to be sacrificed, symbolizing the transfer of their sin and the identification with the offering (Exodus 29:10, 15, 19). This act highlighted the need for atonement and the seriousness of sin.

6. The Duration of Consecration

The consecration ceremony lasted seven days (Exodus 29:35-37; Leviticus 8:33-36). During this time, the priests remained at the entrance of the Tabernacle, eating the offerings and not leaving the sacred space. This period emphasized complete devotion and separation for God’s service.

The Meaning Behind the Rituals

Each step of the consecration process was rich in meaning. Washing with water represented spiritual cleansing. The special garments and anointing oil signified that the priests were chosen and equipped for their holy role. The sacrifices covered their sin and dedicated their lives to God’s service. The application of blood to specific body parts showed that every aspect of the priest’s life was to be devoted to God. The seven-day duration highlighted the completeness of the process.

Renewal and Ongoing Consecration

Priests did not just consecrate themselves once. There were regular rituals for purification, including daily offerings, washings, and at times, re-anointing or re-clothing, especially in cases of impurity (Leviticus 16:4, Numbers 8:5-22). The Day of Atonement, for example, included special ceremonies for the High Priest to ensure he was ritually pure before entering the Holy of Holies.

The Significance for Christians Today

While the specific rituals of priestly consecration are not practiced by Christians, the underlying principles remain relevant. The New Testament teaches that all believers are “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). Spiritual consecration today involves turning from sin, seeking God’s cleansing, and dedicating one’s life to service. The biblical pattern reminds believers that serving God is a sacred privilege that calls for wholehearted devotion and purity.