Exodus chapter 29

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What does Exodus chapter 29 mean?

For several chapters, Exodus has described the sacred components of the Israelite sanctuary (Exodus 25—28). This chapter focuses on ritual consecration of the priesthood. Aaron (Exodus 7:7), Moses' brother, will become the first high priest (Exodus 40:13). Aaron's male descendants will carry the priesthood into future generations (Exodus 29:9; 40:14–15; Numbers 3:10).

Consecrating the priests requires seven bulls (Exodus 29:35–36) and at least two rams. It also consumes various bread items made without yeast. Aaron and his sons are to wear the required uniforms (Exodus 28). First in the ritual is the sacrifice of a bull. This is an early atonement sacrifice which Israel is to perform at regular intervals (Exodus 30:10). The bull's fat, liver, and kidneys will be burnt on the sacrificial altar (Exodus 27:1). Its blood will be smeared on the altar and the rest poured at the base. The meat, skin, and other remnants will be burnt somewhere else (Exodus 29:1–14)

The first ram's blood is splashed on the sides of the altar. It is butchered, washed, and completely burnt on the sacrificial altar. The second ram's blood is applied to right ears, thumbs, and toes of the priests. Moses will then mingle blood with a special oil (Exodus 30:25) to sanctify the priestly garments. These garments must be worn during the entire process. The rest of the second ram's blood is splashed onto the altar's sides. Most of the second ram is burnt on the altar as well. The remaining pieces are contributed to the priesthood. Meat from the second ram is then boiled and eaten with the unleavened bread stored on the sacred table (Exodus 25:23–24, 30). Only the priests may consume these foods. Anything left uneaten by morning must be burnt entirely (Exodus 29:15–34).

Ordaining the priests is a week-long process. Each day another bull is brought for sacrifice. This will make the altar "most holy." To be "holy" is to be separated from other things; it means something entirely given over to the Lord. The altar is so sacred that anything touching it also becomes holy. This does not transfer spiritual power. Rather, it means that whatever touches the altar now belongs to God (Exodus 29:35–37).

The end of this chapter explains the daily sacrifices expected at the tabernacle (Exodus 25:8–9). These are separate from the consecration animals and the seven-day ritual. Israel is to bring one yearling lamb each morning and each evening. Both are sacrificed along with flour, oil, and wine. These sacrifices happen inside the tabernacle courtyard (Exodus 27:9). Using these as physical reminders, the Lord will "dwell" with His people (Exodus 29:38–46).

The next two chapters explain more sacred objects used in Israel's worship, such as a washing basin and an altar for incense (Exodus 30). The people also contribute a set amount of taxes to support the work of the Levite. God selects two men to lead construction of the sanctuary items (Exodus 31). Unfortunately, while Moses receives these instructions on Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:1–6), the people are running wild (Exodus 32).
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