Exodus 29:21

KJV

And thou shalt take of the blood that [is] upon the altar, and of the anointing oil, and sprinkle [it] upon Aaron, and upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon the garments of his sons with him: and he shall be hallowed, and his garments, and his sons, and his sons' garments with him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou shalt take {H3947} of the blood {H1818} that is upon the altar {H4196}, and of the anointing {H4888} oil {H8081}, and sprinkle {H5137} it upon Aaron {H175}, and upon his garments {H899}, and upon his sons {H1121}, and upon the garments {H899} of his sons {H1121} with him: and he shall be hallowed {H6942}, and his garments {H899}, and his sons {H1121}, and his sons {H1121}' garments {H899} with him.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then take some of the blood that is on the altar and some of the anointing oil, and sprinkle it on Aharon and his clothing and on his sons and the clothing of his sons with him; so that he and his clothing will be consecrated, and with him his sons and his sons' clothing.

Berean Standard Bible

And take some of the blood on the altar and some of the anointing oil and sprinkle it on Aaron and his garments, as well as on his sons and their garments. Then he and his garments will be consecrated, as well as his sons and their garments.

American Standard Version

And thou shalt take of the blood that is upon the altar, and of the anointing oil, and sprinkle it upon Aaron, and upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon the garments of his sons with him: and he shall be hallowed, and his garments, and his sons, and his sons’ garments with him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 29:21 details a crucial step in the seven-day consecration ceremony for Aaron and his sons, establishing the Levitical priesthood. This verse describes the comprehensive sprinkling of sacrificial blood and holy anointing oil upon the priests themselves and their sacred garments. This dual application profoundly signifies their complete purification, divine empowerment, and formal setting apart as holy, dedicated servants uniquely authorized to mediate between God and His people within the Old Covenant framework.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 29 is entirely dedicated to the elaborate, divinely ordained ritual for consecrating Aaron and his sons into the priesthood, a process spanning seven days. This chapter follows the detailed instructions for constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings outlined in [Exodus 25-28](/exodus/25-28 "Exodus 25-28 - Instructions for the Tabernacle and Priestly Garments"), emphasizing that the priesthood is integral to the proper functioning of God's dwelling place among His people. Immediately preceding [Exodus 29:21](/exodus/29-21 "Exodus 29:21 - Consecration of Priests"), verses 20-21 describe the precise application of the blood of the "ram of consecration" ([Exodus 29:19](/exodus/29-19 "Exodus 29:19 - The Ram of Consecration")) to the tip of Aaron's and his sons' right ear, thumb, and great toe. This initial, specific application symbolized their dedication in hearing God's commands, performing His service, and walking in His ways. Verse 21 then expands upon this, commanding a broader sprinkling of this same blood, combined with the anointing oil, upon them and their garments. This further act signifies a more comprehensive and pervasive sanctification, ensuring that every aspect of their being and office was consecrated. The subsequent verses ([Exodus 29:22-30](/exodus/29-22-30 "Exodus 29:22-30 - Offerings and Garments")) detail the presentation of the wave offering, the eating of the consecrated portions, and the specific garments to be worn, all reinforcing the sanctity and divine authority of their newly established role.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The establishment of a divinely appointed priesthood was foundational to Israel's identity as God's chosen people, distinct from surrounding nations. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, priests often served various deities, and their roles could be hereditary or appointed by rulers. However, Israel's priesthood, as detailed in [Exodus](/exodus/ "The Book of Exodus") and [Leviticus](/leviticus/ "The Book of Leviticus"), was uniquely instituted by Yahweh Himself, emphasizing His absolute sovereignty and the necessity of approaching Him on His terms. The meticulous rituals, including the use of blood and oil, were not arbitrary but carried profound symbolic weight understood within the cultural milieu. Blood was universally recognized as the essence of life and, in Israel, was uniquely designated for atonement (as seen in [Leviticus 17:11](/leviticus/17-11 "Leviticus 17:11 - The Life is in the Blood")). Anointing with oil, prevalent in the ancient world for setting apart kings, prophets, and sacred objects, here signified divine selection, empowerment, and the impartation of God's presence. The very act of consecration underscored the chasm between a holy God and sinful humanity, highlighting the priests' indispensable role as mediators. This elaborate ceremony served to visually and experientially impress upon the Israelites the holiness required to approach God and the unique, sacred status of those who served in His Tabernacle.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, and indeed the entire chapter of [Exodus 29](/exodus/29 "Exodus 29 - Consecration of Priests"), contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of **Holiness and Separation**, emphasizing God's absolute purity and the necessity for His servants to be set apart from common use and dedicated exclusively to Him. The elaborate cleansing rituals, particularly the application of blood, underscore the theme of **Atonement and Purification**, revealing that sinful humanity cannot approach a holy God without a divinely provided means of covering sin. The anointing with oil highlights **Divine Empowerment and Presence**, signifying that the priests' authority and ability to minister derived directly from God's Spirit, not human capability. Finally, the establishment of the priesthood itself reinforces the theme of **Mediation and Access**, as these consecrated individuals become the divinely appointed bridge between God and His people, enabling Israel to maintain a covenant relationship with Yahweh.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Blood (Hebrew, _dâm'_):** (H1818) From דָּמַם (compare אָדָם); blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshed (i.e. drops of blood). In this context, "blood" is intrinsically linked to life and serves as the primary means of atonement and purification. Its application in this ritual signifies not merely cleansing, but a transfer of life and a covenantal dedication, making the priests and their garments acceptable to God through a life offered in sacrifice.
* **Oil (Hebrew, _shemen'_):** (H8081) From שָׁמַן; grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness. This refers to the specially compounded holy anointing oil ([Exodus 30:22-33](/exodus/30-22-33 "Exodus 30:22-33 - The Holy Anointing Oil")). Its use here, combined with the act of anointing (H4888, _mishchâh_), symbolizes the impartation of divine presence, empowerment for sacred service, and a setting apart for God's purposes. Just as kings and prophets were anointed, so too were the priests, signifying that their authority and ability to minister derived directly from God.
* **Hallowed (Hebrew, _qâdash'_):** (H6942) A primitive root; to be (causatively, make, pronounce or observe as) clean (ceremonially or morally); appoint, bid, consecrate, dedicate, defile, hallow, (be, keep) holy(-er, place), keep, prepare, proclaim, purify, sanctify(-ied one, self), [idiom] wholly. When Aaron and his sons were "hallowed," they were ceremonially purified and designated for a sacred purpose, separated from common or profane use and dedicated exclusively to God's service. This hallowing applied comprehensively to them and their garments, indicating that their entire person and professional representation were now under God's exclusive claim.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou shalt take of the blood that [is] upon the altar":** This clause specifies the sacred source of the blood for the sprinkling. It is not just any blood, but the blood from the ram of consecration, which has already been applied to the altar ([Exodus 29:16](/exodus/29-16 "Exodus 29:16 - Blood on the Altar")) and to the priests' ear, thumb, and toe ([Exodus 29:20](/exodus/29-20 "Exodus 29:20 - Blood on Ear, Thumb, Toe")). This highlights the continuity of the consecration process and the sacred, atoning nature of the sacrificial blood that has already been presented before God.
* **"and of the anointing oil":** This introduces the second, equally vital element to be combined with the blood. The anointing oil, a symbol of divine presence, empowerment, and sanctification, is essential for the priests' ministry. This combination underscores that the priests' comprehensive sanctification is a dual act of purification (blood) and divine enablement (oil), both indispensable for their holy office.
* **"and sprinkle [it] upon Aaron, and upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon the garments of his sons with him":** This describes the comprehensive and pervasive nature of the application. The mixture of blood and oil is sprinkled not only directly upon Aaron and his sons but also upon their official priestly garments. This signifies that their entire person, their very being, and the outward representation of their office were consecrated. The garments were not mere clothing but symbols of their sacred function, and their hallowing was essential for the integrity and efficacy of their ministry.
* **"and he shall be hallowed, and his garments, and his sons, and his sons' garments with him.":** This final clause states the direct and profound result of the sprinkling: a complete and comprehensive hallowing. The repetition of "hallowed" and the inclusion of both the priests and their garments emphasizes the thoroughness of this setting apart. It signifies that they are now ceremonially clean, divinely appointed, and formally dedicated for the sacred service of God, distinct from all others, thus fit to mediate between God and His people.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 29:21 employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound meaning and underscore the gravity of the priestly consecration. **Symbolism** is paramount, with the blood representing atonement, purification, and the essence of life offered in sacrifice, while the anointing oil symbolizes divine presence, empowerment, and sanctification. The garments themselves are also deeply symbolic, representing the office, authority, and sacred function of the priesthood. The act of sprinkling is a symbolic gesture of purification, dedication, and the impartation of holiness. **Repetition** is also evident in the repeated mention of "garments" and "sons," reinforcing the comprehensive nature of the consecration, ensuring that both the individuals and their official capacity were fully set apart for God. The verse also utilizes **Synecdoche**, where the garments stand in for the entire priestly office and its functions, implying that the sanctity extends beyond the person to the very duties they perform. Furthermore, the precise, step-by-step instructions reflect **Ritualistic Language**, emphasizing the divine order, meticulousness, and sacred formality required in approaching a holy God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 29:21 unveils profound theological truths concerning God's absolute holiness, the necessity of mediation, and the divinely prescribed means by which sinful humanity can approach a perfect God. The dual application of blood and oil encapsulates the core principles of purification from sin and divine empowerment for service, both indispensable for anyone entering God's presence or serving in His name. This ritual underscores that access to God is not on human terms but through His prescribed means, involving both the covering of sin and the enabling power of His Spirit. It highlights God's demand for holiness in those who represent Him and serve in His presence, setting a precedent for all future ministry and revealing the gravity of the sacred office.

* [Leviticus 17:11](/leviticus/17-11 "Leviticus 17:11 - The Life is in the Blood for Atonement")
* [Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Without Shedding of Blood There is No Forgiveness")
* [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood and Holy Nation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The ancient ritual of consecrating Aaron and his sons, though specific to the Old Covenant, carries enduring principles for believers today. Just as the priests were set apart by blood and oil, we are purified by the precious blood of Christ and empowered by the indwelling Holy Spirit for our service. This verse reminds us that our calling to be a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")) is not based on our merit or efforts but on God's gracious provision through Christ. It challenges us to live lives that reflect this spiritual "hallowing"—to be separated from the world's defilements and dedicated wholly to God's purposes. Every aspect of our being, our "garments" of daily life and work, our relationships, and our public conduct, should be consecrated to His glory. We are called to embody the holiness of God in our thoughts, words, and actions, recognizing that our ability to serve effectively comes from His Spirit, not our own strength or wisdom. This passage encourages a comprehensive dedication of our lives to the One who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to more fully embrace the "hallowing" process, setting yourself apart for God's exclusive use and glory?**
* **How does understanding the dual symbolism of blood (cleansing) and oil (empowerment) in the Old Testament deepen your appreciation for Christ's sacrifice and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in your life?**
* **Considering that the priests' garments were also consecrated, what does this imply about the importance of our outward conduct and the "garments" of our daily roles in representing Christ to the world?**
* **How can you more intentionally rely on the Holy Spirit's empowerment in your daily walk and service, rather than attempting to serve God in your own strength?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of sprinkling the blood and oil on the garments as well as the priests themselves?**

Answer: The sprinkling on the garments was profoundly symbolic, signifying that the entire office and function of the priesthood, not just the individuals, were consecrated and set apart for God. The garments were not mere clothing; they were integral to the priests' identity and authority in their sacred duties, representing their very ministry. By hallowing the garments, God underscored that every aspect of their service, both their person and their performance, was to be holy and dedicated to Him. This comprehensive hallowing ensured that their ministry was acceptable and effective in mediating between God and His people, emphasizing the purity required for divine encounter and service.

**How does this ritual in Exodus relate to the concept of atonement in the Old Testament?**

Answer: This ritual is deeply intertwined with the concept of atonement. The blood used for sprinkling came from the "ram of consecration" ([Exodus 29:19](/exodus/29-19 "Exodus 29:19 - The Ram of Consecration")), which was a sin offering and a burnt offering. The application of this blood, particularly on the altar and then on the priests, signifies purification and the covering of sin. While this specific ceremony was for consecration, it built upon the broader principle that "without shedding of blood there is no remission" of sins (as later stated in [Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Without Shedding of Blood There is No Remission of Sins")). The blood made the priests acceptable to God, allowing them to perform atoning sacrifices for the people. This ritual, therefore, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate, once-for-all atonement provided by Christ.

**Is this specific ritual still practiced or relevant for believers today?**

Answer: The specific ritual of sprinkling blood and oil on priests and their garments, as described in [Exodus 29](/exodus/29 "Exodus 29 - Consecration of Priests"), is not practiced today by Christians. It was part of the Old Covenant ceremonial law, which found its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. However, the *principles* behind the ritual remain profoundly relevant for believers. The need for purification from sin is met by the cleansing blood of Jesus ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing by Christ's Blood")). The need for divine empowerment is met by the indwelling Holy Spirit, who "anoints" believers for service and enables them to live holy lives ([1 John 2:27](/1_john/2-27 "1 John 2:27 - The Anointing You Received")). Furthermore, New Testament believers are called a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), signifying that all believers are set apart for God's service and have direct access to Him through Christ. Thus, while the form has changed, the spiritual realities of cleansing, empowerment, and comprehensive dedication to God are central to Christian life.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 29:21, with its vivid imagery of blood and oil consecrating the Old Testament priesthood, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ, our great High Priest, and in all believers who are united with Him. The blood sprinkled upon Aaron and his sons powerfully foreshadows the precious, atoning blood of Jesus, which was shed "once for all" on the cross to cleanse us from sin and make us holy before God (as declared in [Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Blood, Not Goats' Blood")). Unlike the Levitical priests who repeatedly offered sacrifices for their own sins and the sins of the people, Christ offered Himself as the spotless Lamb of God, whose perfect sacrifice eternally purifies those who believe ([Hebrews 10:10-14](/hebrews/10-10-14 "Hebrews 10:10-14 - Christ's Single Sacrifice and Eternal Perfection")). Furthermore, the anointing oil, symbolizing divine empowerment and the impartation of God's presence, points directly to the Holy Spirit, whom Christ poured out upon His church at Pentecost ([Acts 2:1-4](/acts/2-1-4 "Acts 2:1-4 - The Day of Pentecost and the Spirit's Outpouring")). Through Christ, believers are not only cleansed by His blood but also "anointed" by the Spirit, equipping them for service and enabling them to live lives consecrated to God ([2 Corinthians 1:21-22](/2_corinthians/1-21-22 "2 Corinthians 1:21-22 - God's Anointing and Seal")). Thus, the comprehensive hallowing of the priests in [Exodus 29:21](/exodus/29-21 "Exodus 29:21 - Consecration of Priests") culminates in the New Covenant, where all believers, through their union with Christ, are made a "royal priesthood" and a "holy nation," set apart by His blood and empowered by His Spirit to offer spiritual sacrifices and proclaim His excellencies ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood and Holy Nation")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Hebrews 9:22

And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.

Leviticus 8:30

And Moses took of the anointing oil, and of the blood which [was] upon the altar, and sprinkled [it] upon Aaron, [and] upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon his sons' garments with him; and sanctified Aaron, [and] his garments, and his sons, and his sons' garments with him.

Exodus 29:7

Then shalt thou take the anointing oil, and pour [it] upon his head, and anoint him.

Exodus 29:1

¶ And this [is] the thing that thou shalt do unto them to hallow them, to minister unto me in the priest's office: Take one young bullock, and two rams without blemish,

Psalms 133:2

[It is] like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, [even] Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;

John 17:19

And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.

Hebrews 10:29

Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?