“And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their clothes.”
This verse takes place during the time when the Israelites had come out of Egypt and were camped at the base of Mount Sinai. They were preparing to encounter God and receive His commandments. Here are some key points we can draw from this verse:
Sanctification:The word “sanctify” means to set apart for a holy purpose. In this context, God instructed Moses to sanctify the people. It involved consecration and purification, both outwardly and inwardly. The people were to prepare themselves spiritually and physically to meet with God.
Timeframe:God specified that the sanctification process would take two days-today and tomorrow. This shows that sanctification requires preparation and is not an instantaneous act. It involves a deliberate and intentional period of readiness and purification.
External Cleansing:As part of their sanctification, the Israelites were instructed to wash their clothes. This external act represented the need for physical cleanliness. By washing their clothes, they were symbolically purifying themselves, preparing to stand before God.
Symbolism:The act of washing clothes carried symbolic significance beyond physical cleanliness. It represented the need for moral and spiritual cleansing. It reflected the importance of inward purity, repentance, and a desire to approach God with reverence and humility.
Preparation for Encounter:Through this process of sanctification, the Israelites were being prepared to encounter God and receive His divine instructions and covenant. It was a significant moment in their history, and God wanted them to be ready to receive His commandments and to understand the holiness of His presence.
This verse highlights the importance of preparation, sanctification, and cleanliness when approaching God. While the physical act of washing clothes may not hold the same significance for us today, the underlying principle of seeking holiness and purity of heart before God remains relevant. It reminds us to prepare ourselves spiritually, repent of our sins, and approach God with reverence and humility when we seek to encounter Him.
Remember, studying the Bible as a whole and seeking guidance from trusted spiritual leaders can provide a deeper understanding of its teachings.
