Exodus 29:19

And thou shalt take the other ramme: and Aaron and his sonnes shall put their hands vpon the head of the ramme. Exodus 29:19 (KJV)

The book of Exodus, the second book of the Bible, continues the narrative of Israel’s journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. In chapter 29 God gives Moses detailed instructions for the consecration and ordination of the priests who will serve in the tabernacle. Verse 19 marks a significant moment in that ordination process.

Sacrifice and Consecration

The verse speaks of “the other ram” that is to be taken for the ordination. Sacrifices were central to Old‑Testament worship, and this ram plays a key role in consecrating Aaron and his sons as priests.

Symbolic Act

When the text says that Aaron and his sons shall put (or lay) their hands upon the head of the ram, it signifies a symbolic transfer of their sins and impurities to the animal. By laying their hands on the ram they identify with the sacrifice, expressing their commitment to God’s service and setting themselves apart for priestly duties.

Identification and Atonement

The act of laying hands on the ram symbolizes identification and substitution. The ram bears the weight of the priests’ guilt, pointing forward to the atonement made through a mediator.

Aaron and His Sons

Aaron, brother of Moses, was the first high priest; his sons were appointed as priests under the Levitical priesthood. Their ordination established the priestly system that would mediate between God and the people.

Spiritual Application

• Christ’s Sacrifice – The laying on of hands and the sacrificial system foreshadow the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29). Through His death and resurrection He became the ultimate High Priest, interceding for us before God.
• Identification with Christ – Just as the priests identified with the ram, believers are called to identify with Christ, acknowledging their need for a Savior and placing their faith in Him, thereby receiving forgiveness and reconciliation.
• Priestly Role of Believers – The New Testament describes believers as a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). As priests we have direct access to God through Christ and are called to intercede for others, sharing the message of reconciliation.
• Holiness and Consecration – The Old‑Testament consecration emphasizes holiness and being set apart. Likewise, Christians are called to live holy lives, sanctified by the Holy Spirit, for God’s purposes.

Conclusion

Exodus 29:19, in its context of priestly consecration, points forward to the future sacrificial work of Jesus Christ, our High Priest and Savior. The act of laying hands on the ram symbolizes dedication, identification, substitution, and atonement, all fulfilled in Christ’s redemptive work on the cross. As believers we are invited to identify with Him, embrace His sacrifice, and live as a royal priesthood set apart for God’s glory.