The Priests of Jerusalem hold a significant role in the religious and cultural history of Israel, serving as mediators between God and the people. Their duties, lineage, and influence are extensively documented throughout the Old and New Testaments, reflecting their central place in the worship and governance of ancient Israel.

Lineage and Appointment

The priesthood in Jerusalem traces its origins to Aaron, the brother of Moses, who was appointed by God as the first high priest. This appointment is recorded in Exodus 28:1, where God commands Moses, "Bring near to you your brother Aaron and his sons with him, from among the Israelites, to serve Me as priests—Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar." The Aaronic priesthood was hereditary, passed down through Aaron's descendants, specifically through the line of Eleazar and Ithamar.

Duties and Responsibilities

The primary role of the priests was to perform sacrifices and offerings in the Temple, as outlined in Leviticus. They were responsible for maintaining the sanctity of the Temple, teaching the Law, and serving as judges in religious and civil disputes. Leviticus 10:11 states, "You must teach the Israelites all the statutes that the LORD has given them through Moses." The priests also played a crucial role during the festivals and holy days, ensuring that the rituals were conducted according to divine instructions.

The High Priest

The High Priest held the highest religious authority among the priests and was the only one permitted to enter the Holy of Holies in the Temple once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). This is detailed in Leviticus 16:32-34, where the High Priest makes atonement for himself, his household, and the entire assembly of Israel. The High Priest wore special garments, including the ephod, breastplate, and turban, as described in Exodus 28.

The Temple in Jerusalem

The Temple in Jerusalem was the central place of worship and the focal point of the priestly ministry. Solomon's Temple, the First Temple, was built around 957 BC and served as the primary location for priestly activities until its destruction by the Babylonians in 586 BC. The Second Temple, rebuilt under Zerubbabel and later expanded by Herod the Great, continued to be the center of Jewish worship until its destruction in AD 70.

Priestly Challenges and Reforms

Throughout Israel's history, the priesthood faced challenges, including corruption and idolatry. Prophets like Malachi rebuked the priests for their failures, as seen in Malachi 2:7-8: "For the lips of a priest should preserve knowledge, and people should seek instruction from his mouth, because he is the messenger of the LORD of Hosts. But you have departed from the way, and your instruction has caused many to stumble." Reforms were periodically instituted, notably under kings like Hezekiah and Josiah, who sought to restore proper worship and adherence to the Law.

The Priests in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the priests of Jerusalem are often depicted in their interactions with Jesus and the early Christian community. They played a significant role in the events leading to the crucifixion of Jesus, as seen in passages like Matthew 26:3-4: "At that time, the chief priests and elders of the people assembled in the courtyard of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas, and they conspired to arrest Jesus covertly and kill Him." Despite this, some priests became followers of Christ, as noted in Acts 6:7: "So the word of God continued to spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith."

Conclusion

The Priests of Jerusalem were integral to the religious life of Israel, serving as custodians of the Law and mediators between God and His people. Their legacy is a testament to the enduring significance of the priestly office in biblical history.