Leviticus 8:26

And from the basket of unleavened bread that was before the LORD, he took one cake of unleavened bread, one cake of bread made with oil, and one wafer, and he placed them on the fat portions and on the right thigh.

Study Bible

And from the basket of unleavened bread that was before the LORD
The basket of unleavened bread was part of the offerings presented during the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests. Unleavened bread, free from yeast, symbolizes purity and separation from sin, aligning with the holiness required of the priesthood. The presence of the basket "before the LORD" indicates the offering's dedication to God, emphasizing His holiness and the need for purity in worship.

he took one cake of unleavened bread
The cake of unleavened bread represents the sustenance provided by God, free from corruption. In the broader biblical narrative, unleavened bread is associated with the Passover (Exodus 12:8), symbolizing the haste of the Israelites' departure from Egypt and their reliance on God. This act of taking the bread signifies the priest's role in mediating between God and the people, offering what is pure and acceptable.

one cake of bread made with oil
Bread made with oil signifies richness and the presence of the Holy Spirit, as oil often symbolizes anointing and consecration in Scripture. The use of oil in the bread highlights the anointing of the priests, setting them apart for divine service. This can be seen as a type of Christ, the Anointed One, who fulfills the role of the ultimate High Priest.

and one wafer
The wafer, a thin unleavened bread, further emphasizes purity and simplicity in offerings to God. It reflects the need for humility and sincerity in worship. The wafer's inclusion in the consecration ceremony underscores the completeness of the offering, covering various forms of bread to symbolize the totality of devotion required.

and he placed them on the fat portions and on the right thigh
The fat portions and the right thigh were parts of the peace offering, symbolizing the best and most valued parts given to God. Placing the bread on these portions signifies the integration of the priestly role with the sacrificial system, highlighting the importance of offering the best to God. The right thigh, often reserved for the priest, indicates the provision for those who serve in God's presence, pointing to the sustenance and honor given to those dedicated to His service. This act foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who offered Himself wholly to God for the redemption of humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is performing the consecration ceremony for Aaron and his sons as priests.

2. Aaron and His Sons
The first priests of Israel, being consecrated for their service to the LORD.

3. The LORD
The God of Israel, who has commanded the consecration ceremony and the specific offerings.

4. The Tabernacle
The sacred place where the consecration ceremony is taking place, representing God's dwelling among His people.

5. The Basket of Unleavened Bread
Contains the offerings used in the consecration ceremony, symbolizing purity and dedication to God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The detailed instructions followed by Moses highlight the importance of obedience to God's commands in our lives.

Symbolism of the Offerings
The unleavened bread, oiled bread, and wafer symbolize purity, anointing, and dedication, reminding us of the qualities we should strive for in our spiritual walk.

Consecration for Service
Just as Aaron and his sons were set apart for service, believers today are called to be set apart for God's purposes.

The Role of Mediators
The priesthood in the Old Testament points to the ultimate mediator, Jesus Christ, who intercedes on our behalf.

Community and Worship
The communal aspect of the ceremony emphasizes the importance of community in worship and service to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of Moses in following God's instructions for the consecration ceremony challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the unleavened bread, oiled bread, and wafer be applied to our personal spiritual lives?

3. How does the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests relate to the New Testament concept of the priesthood of all believers?

4. What can we learn from the role of the Old Testament priests that can be applied to our understanding of Jesus as our High Priest?

5. How can we foster a sense of community and shared worship in our own church or fellowship, drawing from the communal aspects of the consecration ceremony?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
Provides the original instructions for the consecration ceremony, showing the continuity and obedience to God's commands.

Hebrews 7
Discusses the priesthood of Jesus Christ, drawing parallels between the Old Testament priesthood and the eternal priesthood of Christ.

1 Peter 2:9
Describes believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the consecration of Aaron and his sons to the spiritual consecration of all believers.