The washing of Aaron and his sons is a significant event in the consecration of the priesthood, as described in the Book of Exodus. This ceremonial act is part of the broader ordination process that God commanded Moses to perform, setting apart Aaron and his descendants for the sacred duties of the priesthood.

Biblical Context

The instructions for the washing of Aaron and his sons are found in Exodus 29 and reiterated in Leviticus 8. This ritual is part of the larger consecration ceremony that includes anointing, the offering of sacrifices, and the donning of priestly garments. The washing signifies purification and preparation for the holy service they are to undertake.

Scriptural References

In Exodus 29:4 , God commands Moses: "Then bring Aaron and his sons to the entrance to the Tent of Meeting and wash them with water." This act of washing is the first step in the consecration process, symbolizing the cleansing from impurity and the readiness to serve in the presence of God.

Leviticus 8:6 records the fulfillment of this command: "Then Moses presented Aaron and his sons and washed them with water." This verse highlights Moses' obedience to God's instructions and the importance of ritual purity in the service of the Lord.

Theological Significance

The washing of Aaron and his sons holds deep theological significance. It represents the necessity of purity and holiness for those who minister before God. The act of washing with water is symbolic of spiritual cleansing, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture. It underscores the idea that those who serve God must be set apart, both outwardly and inwardly, for their sacred duties.

This ritual also prefigures the New Testament concept of baptism, where water symbolizes the washing away of sin and the believer's identification with Christ. Just as Aaron and his sons were washed before entering their priestly service, Christians are called to be cleansed and consecrated for service in the kingdom of God.

Priestly Garments and Anointing

Following the washing, Aaron and his sons were clothed in specific priestly garments, as detailed in Exodus 29:5-9. These garments included the tunic, robe, ephod, breastpiece, and turban, each with its own symbolic meaning and purpose. The anointing with oil, as described in Exodus 29:7, further consecrated them, signifying the Holy Spirit's empowerment for their priestly roles.

Ritual Purity and Holiness

The washing of Aaron and his sons emphasizes the importance of ritual purity and holiness in the worship of God. It serves as a reminder that those who approach God must do so with reverence and a heart prepared for service. This principle is echoed throughout the Old Testament and finds its fulfillment in the New Testament, where believers are called to live lives of holiness and dedication to God.

Conclusion

The washing of Aaron and his sons is a foundational event in the establishment of the Levitical priesthood. It highlights the necessity of purity, the significance of consecration, and the importance of obedience to God's commands. Through this ritual, God set apart Aaron and his descendants for a unique and holy service, foreshadowing the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who would offer the perfect sacrifice for the sins of humanity.