Exodus 40:32

They washed whenever they entered the Tent of Meeting or approached the altar, just as the LORD had commanded Moses.

Study Bible

They washed whenever they entered the Tent of Meeting
The act of washing symbolizes purification and sanctification, essential for approaching a holy God. The Tent of Meeting, also known as the Tabernacle, was the central place of worship and God's dwelling among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. This washing ritual underscores the importance of cleanliness and purity in worship, reflecting the holiness required to enter God's presence. The priests, specifically Aaron and his sons, were required to wash their hands and feet, signifying the need for spiritual cleanliness. This practice foreshadows the New Testament emphasis on inner purity and the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice (Hebrews 10:22).

or approached the altar
The altar was the place of sacrifice, where offerings were made to atone for sin and express devotion to God. Approaching the altar required ceremonial cleanliness, highlighting the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. This practice points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the sacrificial system by offering Himself as the perfect and final atonement for sin (Hebrews 9:12-14). The altar's significance in the Old Testament worship system is a type of Christ's redemptive work on the cross.

just as the LORD had commanded Moses
This phrase emphasizes obedience to God's commands, a recurring theme in the relationship between God and Israel. Moses, as the mediator of the covenant, received direct instructions from God, which were to be followed precisely. This obedience is crucial for maintaining the covenant relationship and receiving God's blessings. The detailed instructions given to Moses reflect God's desire for order and holiness in worship. This obedience to divine command is mirrored in the New Testament, where Jesus fulfills the law and calls His followers to live in accordance with His teachings (John 14:15).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and to receive the Law, including the instructions for the Tabernacle.

2. Aaron and his sons
The first priests of Israel, appointed by God to serve in the Tabernacle and perform the rituals and sacrifices.

3. Tent of Meeting
Also known as the Tabernacle, this was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where He would meet with Moses and the priests.

4. The Altar
A sacred place where sacrifices were made to God, symbolizing atonement and worship.

5. The LORD's Command
The divine instructions given to Moses regarding the construction and use of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the requirement for ceremonial washing.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The priests' washing was an act of obedience to God's command. Our lives should reflect a commitment to follow God's instructions as revealed in Scripture.

Spiritual Cleansing
Just as the priests needed physical cleansing, we require spiritual cleansing through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

Approaching God with Reverence
The washing before entering the Tent of Meeting signifies the need to approach God with reverence and purity, recognizing His holiness.

Symbolism of Water
Water symbolizes purification and renewal. In the New Testament, baptism represents the believer's cleansing and new life in Christ.

Role of the Priesthood
The priesthood in the Old Testament points to the priesthood of all believers in Christ, who are called to live holy lives and offer spiritual sacrifices.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of washing before entering the Tent of Meeting reflect the broader theme of holiness in the Bible?

2. In what ways does the requirement for the priests to wash relate to the concept of spiritual cleansing in the New Testament?

3. How can we apply the principle of approaching God with reverence in our daily lives and worship practices?

4. What are some modern-day practices or rituals that help us remember the importance of spiritual purity and obedience to God?

5. How does understanding the role of the Old Testament priesthood enhance our appreciation of Jesus' role as our High Priest?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 8
Describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons, emphasizing the importance of washing and purification in their priestly duties.

John 13
Jesus washes the disciples' feet, illustrating the importance of spiritual cleansing and humility, echoing the purification rituals of the Old Testament.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the new and living way opened through Jesus, highlighting the fulfillment of the Old Testament purification rituals in Christ's sacrifice.