“And the priest, whom he shall anoint, and whom he shall consecrate to minister in the priest’s office in his father’s stead, shall make the atonement, and shall put on the linen clothes, even the holy garments.”
This verse is part of a larger passage in Leviticus that describes the Day of Atonement, a significant event in the Israelite religious calendar. The Day of Atonement was a solemn occasion set aside for the purification and forgiveness of the people’s sins.
Let’s break down Leviticus 16:32 and explore its key elements:
- The Priest: The verse refers to the priest who is anointed and consecrated to serve in the priest’s office. In the Old Testament, the priests held a crucial role as mediators between God and the people. They were responsible for performing various rituals and sacrifices to seek forgiveness for the sins of the people.
- Atonement: The priest is tasked with making atonement. Atonement refers to the act of reconciling or making amends for sins or wrongdoings. On the Day of Atonement, the high priest would enter the Holy of Holies, the innermost part of the tabernacle or later the temple, and offer sacrifices to atone for the sins of the people.
- Linen Clothes and Holy Garments: The verse mentions the priest putting on linen clothes, specifically the holy garments. These garments were distinct and designated for the priests. They were made of fine linen and included items such as a breastplate, an ephod, a turban, and a robe. The garments symbolized the holiness and consecration of the priest as they carried out their duties before God.
The overall significance of this verse lies in the context of the Day of Atonement and the role of the priest as the mediator between God and the people. It emphasizes the sacredness and gravity of the priestly office, as well as the importance of proper attire and preparation when approaching God in worship and seeking forgiveness.
It’s worth noting that the practices described in Leviticus, including those related to the priesthood and the Day of Atonement, were part of the Old Covenant established between God and the Israelites. With the coming of Jesus Christ, His sacrifice on the cross fulfilled the need for repeated animal sacrifices and introduced the New Covenant, where forgiveness and atonement are obtained through faith in Him.
By studying these Old Testament passages, we gain insights into the historical and cultural context of the Israelites and appreciate the significance of Jesus’ redemptive work in the New Testament.
