Leviticus 8:27

He put all these in the hands of Aaron and his sons and waved them before the LORD as a wave offering.

Study Bible

He put all these in the hands of Aaron and his sons
This phrase refers to Moses placing the sacrificial elements in the hands of Aaron and his sons, signifying the transfer of priestly duties and responsibilities. This act symbolizes the consecration and ordination of Aaron and his sons as priests. The laying of hands is a significant biblical gesture, often used to confer authority or blessing (Numbers 27:18-23). It marks the beginning of their service in the tabernacle, highlighting the importance of the priesthood in mediating between God and the Israelites.

and waved them before the LORD
The wave offering is a specific type of sacrifice where the offering is moved back and forth before the altar. This act symbolizes presenting the offering to God and acknowledging His sovereignty. The wave offering is part of the peace offerings, which express fellowship and gratitude towards God (Leviticus 7:30-34). The motion of waving signifies the offering being given to God and then returned to the priests for their sustenance, illustrating the reciprocal relationship between God and His people.

as a wave offering
The wave offering is a subset of the peace offerings, which were voluntary and expressed thanksgiving and fellowship. This particular offering is unique because it involves a physical motion that sets it apart from other sacrifices. The wave offering is a reminder of God's provision and the priest's role in facilitating the people's relationship with God. It also foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who, as the perfect High Priest, offered Himself once for all (Hebrews 7:27). The wave offering, therefore, points to the greater reality of Christ's atoning work and the peace it brings between God and 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
The brother of Moses, who is being consecrated as the high priest.

3. Aaron's Sons
They are being consecrated alongside Aaron to serve as priests.

4. The LORD
The God of Israel, to whom the wave offering is presented.

5. Wave Offering
A specific type of offering in the Levitical system, symbolizing the presentation and dedication of the offering to God.

Teaching Points

The Role of Priests
The consecration of Aaron and his sons highlights the importance of the priestly role in mediating between God and the people. In the New Testament, Jesus fulfills this role as our High Priest.

Symbolism of the Wave Offering
The wave offering symbolizes dedication and consecration to God. As believers, we are called to present ourselves as living sacrifices, wholly dedicated to God's service.

Obedience to God's Commands
The detailed instructions for the consecration ceremony emphasize the importance of obedience to God's commands. Our lives should reflect a commitment to following God's Word.

Community and Leadership
The consecration of Aaron and his sons underscores the need for godly leadership within the community of faith. We should pray for and support our spiritual leaders.

Holiness and Service
The consecration process reminds us of the call to holiness and service. As a "royal priesthood," we are set apart to serve God and others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the consecration of Aaron and his sons in Leviticus 8 relate to the concept of Jesus as our High Priest in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we present ourselves as a "wave offering" to God in our daily lives?

3. What lessons can we learn from the obedience of Moses, Aaron, and his sons in following God's detailed instructions?

4. How can we support and pray for our spiritual leaders, drawing from the example of the consecration of the priests?

5. How does the concept of being a "royal priesthood" in 1 Peter 2:9 challenge us to live out our faith in practical ways?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
This chapter provides the instructions for the consecration of the priests, which is being carried out in Leviticus 8.

Hebrews 7
Discusses the priesthood of Jesus Christ, drawing parallels to the Levitical priesthood and highlighting the fulfillment of the Old Testament priestly system in Christ.

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