Exodus 29 - Printer Friendly

What does Exodus 29 mean?

Chapter Commentary:

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).

Exodus 29:1–9 introduces the process to consecrate Israel's first priests under this covenant (Exodus 19:5–6). The early stages of consecration require a bull and two rams for sacrifice, various unleavened foods, and the priestly garments (Exodus 28). After washing, the priests put on these sacred clothes and begin the main part of the ordination ceremony. This will inaugurate a permanent line of priests through Aaron's descendants.

Exodus 29:10–14 describes the sacrifice of a bull during the consecration of Israel's first priests. Blood, fat, and certain entrails are burned on the bronze altar (Exodus 27:1). The animal's skin and the contents of its bowels are to be burned away from the tabernacle's court.

Exodus 29:15–28 explains the sacrifice of two rams. This is part of the Lord's commands for Moses to consecrate Israel's first priests under the Mosaic covenant. The first ram is cut into pieces and burnt entirely on the altar (Exodus 27:1). Blood from the second ram is applied to Aaron and his sons (Exodus 40:13–15). The second ram's organs are handled in various ways.

Exodus 29:29–46 records the final details for Moses to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests (Exodus 40:13–15; Numbers 3:10). The priests don their holy garments and eat the various breads and meats prepared for this ritual. God also establishes a twice-daily sacrifice of lambs. These practices are meant to remind Israel of their special relationship with the Lord.

Chapter Summary:

God will establish Aaron as the first high priest. Aaron's sons will begin serving in a hereditary priesthood (Exodus 40:13–15; Numbers 3:10). In this passage, the Lord gives Moses detailed instructions about how to consecrate this new priesthood. The ritual involves several sacrificial animals and the application of blood. These physical rituals and objects remind Israel of God's loving works on their behalf.

Chapter Context:

The last several chapters gave detailed instructions for various components of the tabernacle (Exodus 25—27). Chapter 28 explained the intricate uniform of Israel's high priest. It also sets requirements for garments worn by the rest of the priesthood. In this chapter, God explains how Moses is to consecrate Aaron as the first high priest, and Aaron's sons as the first generation of the general priesthood. Final details about the construction of the holy items will follow (Exodus 30—31).

The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.

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