“So they shall wash their hands and their feet, that they die not: and it shall be a statute forever to them, even to him and to his seed throughout their generations.”
Context:Exodus 30 contains instructions for the construction and use of the altar of incense and the laver, which was a basin used for ceremonial washing. In this specific verse, God commands Aaron and his sons (the priests) to wash their hands and feet before entering the tabernacle to perform their duties. This ritual purification was crucial to ensure that they were ceremonially clean and thus prevented their death in the presence of God.
Key Points:
- Ceremonial Washing:The act of washing hands and feet was symbolic of purification, and it was a physical and spiritual preparation for the priests to approach God’s presence in the tabernacle. This principle of cleansing before worship teaches us the importance of coming before God with a clean heart and a repentant spirit.
- Reverence for God:The command to wash before entering the tabernacle reminds us of the reverence and respect we should have when coming into God’s presence. It reflects the holiness of God and the need for a separated and purified approach to Him.
- Statute Forever:God declares that this practice of ceremonial washing is not just for the current generation but should be observed throughout all future generations of the priestly line. This emphasizes the enduring significance of the ritual and its spiritual lessons for the people of God.
- Application to Christians:While the Old Testament laws and rituals were specifically given to the Israelites, we can draw spiritual lessons and principles from them as Christians. In the New Testament, we are reminded of the importance of cleansing through the forgiveness of sins offered by Jesus Christ (1 John 1:9). We are also called to be a holy priesthood, set apart for God’s service (1 Peter 2:9).
- Heart and Hands:The act of washing hands symbolizes purity in our actions and deeds, while washing feet represents our willingness to serve others humbly. In the Christian context, Jesus demonstrated this principle when He washed His disciples’ feet, showing the importance of humility and service (John 13:1-17).
- Spiritual Cleansing:The physical washing of hands and feet in the Old Testament foreshadows the spiritual cleansing we receive through faith in Christ. Jesus purifies us from sin and makes us acceptable to God through His sacrifice on the cross.
Conclusion:Exodus 30:21 reminds us of the importance of approaching God with reverence and purity. It also points us to the ultimate purification and forgiveness of sins that we receive through faith in Jesus Christ. As Christians, we should strive to live holy lives, presenting ourselves as living sacrifices, acceptable and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). Just as the priests of old prepared themselves before entering the tabernacle, we should prepare our hearts and minds before coming into God’s presence through prayer, repentance, and thanksgiving.
