Leviticus 8:11

And he sprinkled thereof upon the altar seven times, and anointed the altar and all his vessels, both the laver and his foot, to sanctify them.

And he sprinkled {H5137} thereof upon the altar {H4196} seven {H7651} times {H6471}, and anointed {H4886} the altar {H4196} and all his vessels {H3627}, both the laver {H3595} and his foot {H3653}, to sanctify {H6942} them.

He sprinkled some on the altar seven times, anointing the altar with all its utensils and the basin with its base, to consecrate them.

He sprinkled some of the oil on the altar seven times, anointing the altar and all its utensils, and the basin with its stand, to consecrate them.

And he sprinkled thereof upon the altar seven times, and anointed the altar and all its vessels, and the laver and its base, to sanctify them.

Commentary

Leviticus 8:11 details a significant ritual performed by Moses during the consecration of the Tabernacle and the ordination of Aaron and his sons as priests. This verse highlights the meticulous process of setting apart sacred objects for divine service, emphasizing the absolute necessity of holiness in God's presence.

Context

This verse is found within Leviticus Chapter 8, which provides a detailed account of the ordination of Aaron and his sons to the priesthood, a ceremony lasting seven days. Moses, acting under God's precise instructions, carries out each step. After anointing Aaron and his priestly garments (Leviticus 8:7-9), the focus shifts to the Tabernacle itself and its essential furnishings. The holy anointing oil, whose composition was divinely prescribed (Exodus 30:23-25), is now applied to the altar of burnt offering, its vessels, and the laver (basin for washing) with its stand, signifying their dedication and separation for sacred use.

Key Themes

  • Consecration and Holiness: The primary purpose of Moses' actions was to "sanctify" (set apart) these objects. The repeated sprinkling and anointing underscore that everything used in God's worship must be made holy, reflecting His own perfect holiness and purity.
  • Divine Authority and Obedience: The entire process in Leviticus 8 is performed precisely "as the LORD commanded Moses" (Leviticus 8:9). This emphasizes that true worship and service are not based on human innovation but on faithful adherence to God's revealed will and instructions.
  • Symbolism of Seven: Moses sprinkles the altar "seven times." In biblical symbolism, the number seven often represents completeness, perfection, or divine fullness. This indicates a thorough and perfect consecration, making the altar fully dedicated and acceptable to God.
  • Preparation for Service: The anointing of the altar, its vessels, and the laver ensures that every component of the Tabernacle is ritually pure and ready for the sacrifices, offerings, and priestly duties that will take place there. This preparation is essential for facilitating communion between a holy God and His people.

Linguistic Insights

The crucial Hebrew verb translated as "sanctify" in this verse is qadash. It fundamentally means "to set apart," "to make holy," or "to dedicate." When applied to objects, it signifies their separation from common, profane use and their appropriation for sacred, divine service. The act of anointing with oil was the tangible sign of this setting apart, imbuing the objects with a sacred status necessary for their function within the Tabernacle system.

Practical Application

While the Old Testament ceremonial laws are no longer in effect for New Covenant believers, the underlying principles of consecration and holiness remain vital. Just as the Tabernacle vessels were set apart for God's use, believers are called to be a holy nation, a people belonging to God (1 Peter 2:9). Our lives, our bodies, and our actions are to be presented as "living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God" (Romans 12:1). This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of purity, dedication, and obedience in our personal walk with God and in our service to Him, reflecting the sanctifying work of Christ in our lives.

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Cross-References

  • Exodus 4:6 (2 votes)

    And the LORD said furthermore unto him, Put now thine hand into thy bosom. And he put his hand into his bosom: and when he took it out, behold, his hand [was] leprous as snow.

  • Isaiah 52:15 (2 votes)

    So shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their mouths at him: for [that] which had not been told them shall they see; and [that] which they had not heard shall they consider.

  • Exodus 16:14 (2 votes)

    And when the dew that lay was gone up, behold, upon the face of the wilderness [there lay] a small round thing, [as] small as the hoar frost on the ground.

  • Exodus 16:19 (2 votes)

    And Moses said, Let no man leave of it till the morning.

  • Ezekiel 36:25 (2 votes)

    ¶ Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.

  • Exodus 4:17 (2 votes)

    And thou shalt take this rod in thine hand, wherewith thou shalt do signs.

  • Exodus 30:29 (2 votes)

    And thou shalt sanctify them, that they may be most holy: whatsoever toucheth them shall be holy.