Leviticus 8:6

And Moses brought Aaron and his sons, and washed them with water.

And Moses {H4872} brought {H7126} Aaron {H175} and his sons {H1121}, and washed {H7364} them with water {H4325}.

Moshe brought Aharon and his sons, washed them with water,

Then Moses presented Aaron and his sons and washed them with water.

And Moses brought Aaron and his sons, and washed them with water.

Commentary

Leviticus 8:6 describes a pivotal moment in the establishment of the Israelite priesthood, where Moses, acting under divine instruction, prepares Aaron and his sons for their sacred office by ritually washing them with water.

Context

This verse is part of a detailed account in Leviticus chapter 8, which meticulously records the seven-day ordination ceremony for Aaron and his sons to serve as priests. These instructions were first given by God to Moses in Exodus 29. The washing described here is the very first step in this elaborate process, signifying a necessary purification before approaching the holy God and performing sacred duties. It precedes their anointing, clothing, and the offering of sacrifices.

Key Themes

  • Purity and Consecration: The washing with water symbolizes the necessity of cleanliness and purity for anyone serving God. It set Aaron and his sons apart, making them ceremonially fit for their holy calling. This act was not merely hygienic but deeply symbolic of spiritual cleansing.
  • Divine Appointment and Authority: Moses's action of washing them underscores that their priesthood was not self-appointed but divinely ordained. They were chosen by God, and their purification was a prerequisite for their authorized service.
  • Preparation for Service: The washing highlights the importance of thorough preparation before embarking on any sacred task. It teaches that one must be set apart and cleansed before entering into God's presence or performing His work.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew verb used for "washed" is rachatz (ืจึธื—ึทืฅ), which denotes a thorough washing of the body. In this context, it implies a complete ritual cleansing, not just a superficial rinse. This thoroughness emphasizes the absolute purity required for those who would mediate between God and His people. This concept of washing for purification is seen throughout the Old Testament and finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament's emphasis on spiritual cleansing.

Reflection and Application

While the Levitical priesthood and its rituals have been fulfilled in Christ, the principles of purity and preparation remain profoundly relevant for believers today. As Christians, we are called a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), privileged to draw near to God. The washing of Aaron and his sons foreshadows the spiritual cleansing we receive through faith in Jesus Christ, whose blood purifies us from all sin (1 John 1:7). Furthermore, just as the priests were washed for service, believers are called to live lives of increasing holiness and dedication, being cleansed by the washing of water by the word and the Spirit (Titus 3:5) as we serve God and others.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 6:11 (4 votes)

    And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

  • Exodus 29:4 (4 votes)

    And Aaron and his sons thou shalt bring unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and shalt wash them with water.

  • Ephesians 5:26 (4 votes)

    That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,

  • Exodus 30:19 (3 votes)

    For Aaron and his sons shall wash their hands and their feet thereat:

  • Psalms 26:6 (3 votes)

    ยถ I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O LORD:

  • Ezekiel 36:25 (3 votes)

    ยถ 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.

  • Isaiah 1:16 (3 votes)

    ยถ Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil;