Exodus 40:31

And Moses and Aaron and his sons washed their hands and their feet thereat:

And Moses {H4872} and Aaron {H175} and his sons {H1121} washed {H7364} their hands {H3027} and their feet {H7272} thereat:

so that Moshe and Aharon and his sons could wash their hands and feet there -

and from it Moses, Aaron, and his sons washed their hands and feet.

And Moses and Aaron and his sons washed their hands and their feet thereat;

Commentary

Exodus 40:31 concludes the detailed account of the Tabernacle's completion and consecration, focusing on a crucial act of purification. Here, Moses, alongside Aaron and his sons (the designated priests), diligently perform the ritual washing of their hands and feet at the bronze laver. This act was not merely ceremonial but deeply symbolic, signifying the absolute necessity of purity for those who would minister in the Lord's presence.

Context

This verse is found at the very end of the Book of Exodus, which culminates with the glory of the Lord filling the newly erected Tabernacle. Following God's meticulous instructions for its construction, the final steps involve the setting up of the various elements and the consecration of the priests. The laver, described earlier in Exodus 30:18-21, was strategically placed between the tent of meeting and the altar. Its purpose was explicit: for Moses, Aaron, and his sons to wash their hands and feet before entering the Tabernacle or approaching the altar to minister. Failure to do so would result in death, underscoring the seriousness of approaching a holy God.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Holiness and Purity: The primary message is the absolute requirement of ritual purity for approaching God and engaging in sacred service. The physical washing symbolized an inner cleansing, a recognition of God's perfect holiness.
  • Obedience to Divine Command: Moses and the priests demonstrate precise obedience to every command given by God. This meticulous adherence highlights the importance of following God's instructions in worship and service, as seen throughout the Tabernacle's construction and operation.
  • Preparation for Ministry: The washing was an essential part of the priestly ordination and ongoing service. It teaches that those who serve God must first be prepared and purified, acknowledging their unworthiness apart from divine provision.
  • Distinction Between Sacred and Common: The act of washing demarcated the transition from the common activities of life to the sacred duties of ministry within the Tabernacle, emphasizing the reverence due to God's dwelling place.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "washed" is rachatz (ืจึธื—ึทืฅ), which simply means to wash or bathe. In this context, it refers to a specific, limited washing of the hands and feet, not a full body bath. This precise instruction highlights the specific parts of the body involved in priestly service: the hands for performing the sacrifices and rituals, and the feet for walking in the holy precincts.

Related Scriptures

The requirement for washing at the laver is first commanded in Exodus 30:19-21, where God warns that failure to wash would result in death. This command was reiterated and performed during the priestly ordination ceremony, as recorded in Leviticus 8:6. In the New Testament, while ceremonial washings are superseded, the principle of spiritual cleansing remains vital. Jesus' act of washing His disciples' feet in John 13 carries profound spiritual significance, pointing to the need for ongoing purification from the defilements of the world, even for those already 'clean' through faith. The author of Hebrews encourages believers to "draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our bodies washed with pure water," which speaks to the spiritual cleansing and preparation for approaching God through Christ (Hebrews 10:22).

Practical Application

While Christians are no longer bound by the Old Testament ceremonial laws, the principles behind the laver washing remain deeply relevant. We are called to approach God with reverence and a desire for purity. This translates into a commitment to ongoing spiritual cleansing through confession of sins (1 John 1:9) and a life lived in accordance with God's Word. Before engaging in worship, prayer, or ministry, it is vital to reflect on our spiritual state and seek God's purification. Just as the priests needed to wash their hands and feet, signifying their actions and walk, believers today are called to holy living in both their conduct and their path, reflecting the holiness of the God whom they serve.

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Cross-References

  • 1 John 1:7 (2 votes)

    But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

  • Psalms 51:6 (2 votes)

    Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden [part] thou shalt make me to know wisdom.

  • Psalms 51:7 (2 votes)

    ยถ Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

  • John 13:10 (2 votes)

    Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash [his] feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all.

  • Psalms 26:6 (2 votes)

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

  • Exodus 30:19 (2 votes)

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

  • Exodus 30:20 (2 votes)

    When they go into the tabernacle of the congregation, they shall wash with water, that they die not; or when they come near to the altar to minister, to burn offering made by fire unto the LORD: