What does Exodus 30:30 mean?
ESV: You shall anoint Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, that they may serve me as priests.
NIV: "Anoint Aaron and his sons and consecrate them so they may serve me as priests.
NASB: And you shall anoint Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, so that they may serve as priests to Me.
CSB: Anoint Aaron and his sons and consecrate them to serve me as priests.
NLT: Anoint Aaron and his sons also, consecrating them to serve me as priests.
KJV: And thou shalt anoint Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, that they may minister unto me in the priest's office.
NKJV: And you shall anoint Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, that they may minister to Me as priests.
Verse Commentary:
Please see our chapter commentary on Exodus 30; verse-level content coming soon!
Verse Context:
Exodus 30:22–33 gives the components to a sacred anointing oil. Moses will make this from olive oil infused with aromatic substances such as myrrh, cinnamon, and other local spices. This is the oil used to consecrate the priests (Exodus 29) and all the objects associated with the tabernacle (Exodus 25:8–9). Every other use of this anointing oil is strictly forbidden, as are imitations of it.
Chapter Summary:
Items described here function with other sacred objects (Exodus 25—28) constructed for the tabernacle (Exodus 25:8–9). One is a small gold-lined altar for incense. The other is a large bronze basin for ceremonial washing. The last two sets of instructions are for specially formulated anointing oil and sacred incense. Israel will establish a national tax to pay for these.
Chapter Context:
Much of Exodus is a description of the tabernacle and its components (Exodus 25—28). This is the last section of new designs given in this book. God will assign craftsmen to make the sacred objects (Exodus 31). But while Moses receives these instructions, Israel slips into idolatry (Exodus 32). The last several chapters of Exodus record how God's earlier instructions were followed with precision.
Book Summary:
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.
Accessed 7/3/2025 7:10:33 AM
© Copyright 2002-2025 Got Questions Ministries. All rights reserved.
Text from ESV, NIV, NASB, CSB, NLT, KJV, NKJV © Copyright respective owners, used by permission.
www.BibleRef.com