Leviticus 8:2

"Take Aaron and his sons, their garments, the anointing oil, the bull of the sin offering, the two rams, and the basket of unleavened bread,

Study Bible

Take Aaron and his sons
Aaron and his sons were chosen by God to serve as priests, establishing the Aaronic priesthood. This selection signifies the beginning of a hereditary priesthood in Israel, emphasizing the importance of lineage and divine appointment in spiritual leadership. Aaron, as the first high priest, prefigures Christ, our ultimate High Priest, who mediates between God and humanity.

their garments
The priestly garments were specifically designed and commanded by God, as detailed in Exodus 28. These garments symbolized holiness and were meant to set the priests apart for their sacred duties. Each piece of clothing had spiritual significance, such as the ephod, breastplate, and turban, representing various aspects of the priestly role and pointing to the righteousness and intercession of Christ.

the anointing oil
Anointing oil was used to consecrate the priests, signifying the Holy Spirit's empowerment and setting them apart for God's service. The oil's composition was unique and sacred, as described in Exodus 30:22-33. Anointing prefigures the anointing of Jesus by the Holy Spirit at His baptism and the anointing of believers in the New Covenant.

the bull of the sin offering
The sin offering was a crucial part of the sacrificial system, symbolizing atonement for sin and the need for purification. The bull, as a sin offering, foreshadows Christ's ultimate sacrifice for sin, fulfilling the requirements of the Law and providing a way for humanity to be reconciled to God.

the two rams
The two rams were used for different purposes: one for the burnt offering and the other for the ordination offering. The burnt offering represented complete dedication to God, while the ordination offering signified the consecration of the priests. These sacrifices point to Christ's total obedience and His role in consecrating believers for service.

and the basket of unleavened bread
Unleavened bread, free from yeast, symbolizes purity and the absence of sin. It was part of the ordination ceremony, reflecting the need for holiness in those who serve God. This bread connects to the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which commemorate Israel's deliverance from Egypt and point to Christ, the Bread of Life, who is without sin.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The brother of Moses, chosen by God to be the first high priest of Israel. His role is central in the establishment of the priesthood.

2. Aaron's Sons
They are to serve as priests under Aaron, signifying the beginning of the hereditary priesthood in Israel.

3. The Garments
Special clothing designated for the priests, symbolizing their holy service and separation for God's work.

4. The Anointing Oil
Used to consecrate Aaron and his sons, representing the Holy Spirit's empowerment and sanctification.

5. The Bull for the Sin Offering
A sacrifice for atonement, highlighting the need for purification from sin before serving God.

6. The Two Rams
Used for the burnt offering and the ordination offering, symbolizing dedication and consecration to God.

7. The Basket of Unleavened Bread
Represents purity and the absence of sin, used in the ordination ceremony.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Preparation for Service
Just as Aaron and his sons were prepared and consecrated for their priestly duties, Christians today must prepare their hearts and lives for service to God.

The Role of Sacrifice in Worship
The sin offering and other sacrifices underscore the necessity of atonement and dedication in our relationship with God. Jesus' ultimate sacrifice fulfills these Old Testament requirements.

Holiness and Separation
The garments and anointing oil symbolize holiness and separation. Believers are called to live distinct lives, set apart for God's purposes.

The Continuity of God's Plan
The ordination of Aaron and his sons is part of God's unfolding plan, which finds its fulfillment in Christ. Understanding this continuity enriches our appreciation of God's redemptive work.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the consecration of Aaron and his sons in Leviticus 8:2 reflect the seriousness with which God views the role of spiritual leadership?

2. In what ways can the preparation and consecration of the priests in Leviticus 8:2 inspire us to prepare for our own roles in God's service today?

3. How do the elements used in the ordination ceremony (garments, anointing oil, sacrifices) symbolize aspects of our spiritual lives as Christians?

4. What parallels can we draw between the priesthood of Aaron and the priesthood of all believers as described in 1 Peter 2:9?

5. How does understanding the Old Testament priesthood enhance our appreciation of Jesus' role as our High Priest, as discussed in Hebrews 5:1-4?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28-29
These chapters provide detailed instructions for the priestly garments and the consecration ceremony, offering a broader context for Leviticus 8:2.

Hebrews 5:1-4
Discusses the role of the high priest, drawing parallels between Aaron's priesthood and the ultimate priesthood of Christ.

1 Peter 2:9
Refers to believers as a "royal priesthood," connecting the Old Testament priesthood to the New Testament calling of all Christians.