Topical Encyclopedia The Laver of Brass, also known as the Bronze Laver, was a significant element in the Tabernacle of the Old Testament, serving as a crucial instrument for ritual purification. It was situated in the courtyard of the Tabernacle, between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, and was used by the priests for washing before they performed their sacred duties. This act of washing symbolized the need for purity and holiness in approaching God.Biblical Description and Construction The instructions for the construction of the Laver are found in Exodus 30:17-21. The LORD commanded Moses, saying, "You are to make a bronze basin with a bronze stand for washing. Place it between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, and put water in it. Aaron and his sons are to wash their hands and feet with water from it" (Exodus 30:18-19). The laver was made from the bronze mirrors donated by the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting (Exodus 38:8). This use of mirrors may symbolize self-examination and reflection, essential aspects of spiritual purification. Purpose and Ritual Use The primary purpose of the Laver was for the priests to wash their hands and feet before entering the Tent of Meeting or approaching the altar to minister. This act was not merely for physical cleanliness but was a ritualistic cleansing, signifying the removal of impurity and the preparation to serve in the presence of a holy God. The LORD emphasized the importance of this ritual by stating, "Whenever they enter the Tent of Meeting or approach the altar to minister by presenting an offering made by fire to the LORD, they must wash with water, so that they will not die" (Exodus 30:20). This underscores the seriousness of approaching God with reverence and purity. Symbolism and Theological Significance The Laver of Brass holds deep symbolic meaning within the broader narrative of Scripture. It represents the necessity of cleansing and sanctification for those who serve God. The washing at the Laver prefigures the New Testament concept of spiritual cleansing through the Word and the Holy Spirit. In Ephesians 5:26, Paul speaks of Christ sanctifying the church, "cleansing her by the washing with water through the word" . This connection highlights the continuity of God's requirement for holiness from the Old Covenant to the New. Furthermore, the Laver's position between the altar and the Tent of Meeting signifies the transition from sacrifice to service. The priests, having offered sacrifices at the altar, needed to be cleansed before entering the holy space of the Tent of Meeting, illustrating the progression from atonement to sanctification. Historical and Cultural Context In the ancient Near Eastern context, water was often associated with life, purity, and the divine. The use of water for ritual purification was common in various cultures, but the specific instructions given to Israel set them apart as a people dedicated to the LORD. The Laver of Brass, therefore, not only served a practical function but also reinforced Israel's identity as a holy nation, called to be distinct from surrounding peoples. Priestly Consecration The consecration of the priests involved a series of rituals, including washing, anointing, and the donning of sacred garments. The initial washing of Aaron and his sons at the Laver was a foundational step in their consecration, as described in Exodus 29:4: "Then you shall bring Aaron and his sons to the entrance of the Tent of Meeting and wash them with water" . This act set them apart for their priestly duties, emphasizing the necessity of purity in their service to God. The Laver of Brass, therefore, stands as a testament to the holiness required of those who minister before the LORD, a principle that resonates throughout the biblical narrative and into the life of the church today. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 40:12And you shall bring Aaron and his sons to the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and wash them with water. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Altogether Lovely Scriptural Types. The Saints' Privilege and Profit; Solomon's Temple Spiritualized Resources What is the meaning of bitter water in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the new anointing? | GotQuestions.org What is the Valley of Succoth in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Laver: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Laver of Brass was Anointed With Holy Oil Laver of Brass was Placed in the Court Between the Altar and the Tabernacle Laver of Brass: Called the Brazen Sea Laver of Brass: Christ the Fountain for Sin Laver of Brass: Made of Brazen Mirrors of the Women Laver of Brass: Moses Was Commanded to Make Laver of Brass: One Made by Solomon for the Temple Laver of Brass: The Priests Washed in Before Approaching the Altar Laver of Brass: The Priests Washed in Before Consecration Laver of Brass: The Priests Washed in Before Entering the Tabernacle Laver of Brass: Wisdom Given to Bezaleel to Make Laver: Brazen (Bronze), Made by Solomon for the Temple Laver: Broken and Carried Away to Babylon by the Chaldeans Laver: Situation of, in the Tabernacle, Tent of the Congregation, and the Altar Related Terms Burnt-offering (205 Occurrences) Congregation (347 Occurrences) |
    |