“And he shall wash his flesh with water in the holy place, and put on his garments, and come forth, and offer his burnt offering, and the burnt offering of the people, and make an atonement for himself, and for the people.”
Context: Leviticus 16 describes the institution of the Day of Atonement, a sacred day in the Israelite calendar. This chapter provides instructions for the high priest’s actions and offerings on this day to make atonement for the sins of the people.
Importance of Cleansing: In verse 24, we see the emphasis on cleansing. The high priest was required to wash his flesh with water in the holy place before proceeding with the offerings. This act of cleansing symbolized purification and the removal of impurities. It was a reminder that only a purified and holy person could approach God and represent the people before Him. It also highlights the importance of approaching God with a clean heart and pure motives.
Garments: The verse mentions the high priest putting on his garments before offering the burnt offering. The specific attire for the high priest was described in detail earlier in Leviticus. The garments were made of fine linen and included the ephod, breastplate, robe, and turban. The high priest’s garments were unique and set him apart from others, signifying his role as the mediator between God and the people. The importance of appropriate attire in approaching God teaches us to honor and respect Him in our worship and service.
Offerings: The verse states that the high priest would offer his burnt offering and the burnt offering of the people. The burnt offering was a significant sacrifice, representing total surrender and dedication to God. By offering these sacrifices, the high priest sought atonement for himself and the people. Atonement means reconciliation or making amends for sin. The blood of the sacrifices was a symbol of cleansing and forgiveness, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who would provide complete atonement for the sins of humanity.
Mediatorship: The high priest served as a mediator between God and the people, representing them before God and offering sacrifices for their sins. This role foreshadowed Jesus Christ, who would become the ultimate High Priest and Mediator between God and humanity. Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross fulfilled the symbolic purpose of the Day of Atonement, making atonement for the sins of all who believe in Him.
Key Takeaways:
- Cleansing is essential when approaching God, highlighting the need for a pure heart and sincere worship.
- Appropriate attire demonstrates reverence and respect for God.
- The burnt offerings symbolized surrender and dedication to God, ultimately fulfilled by Jesus’ sacrifice.
- Jesus is the ultimate High Priest and Mediator, providing complete atonement for our sins.
Leviticus 16:24 reminds us of the importance of approaching God with reverence and purity. It points us to Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the role of the high priest and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for our sins.
