Exodus 29:20: “Slaughter it, take some of its blood and put it on the lobes of the right ears of Aaron and his sons, on the thumbs of their right hands and on the big toes of their right feet. Then splash blood against the sides of the altar.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 29:20 describes a significant part of the ordination ceremony for Aaron and his sons as priests. After the second ram, known as the “ram of ordination,” was slaughtered, specific instructions were given on how to apply its blood. Moses was to take some of the ram’s blood and place it on three distinct parts of the bodies of Aaron and his sons: the lobes of their right ears, the thumbs of their right hands, and the big toes of their right feet. After this, he was to splash the remaining blood against the sides of the altar.
The application of blood to these three parts of the body was rich in symbolism. The ear represented the priests’ listening and obedience to God’s word. The thumb of the right hand symbolized their actions and service in carrying out God’s commands. The big toe of the right foot represented their walk and the direction of their lives, indicating that their entire journey and lifestyle were to be dedicated to God. This act of consecration demonstrated that every part of their being—what they heard, what they did, and where they went—was to be fully committed to serving God.
Historical Context
In the historical context of Israel’s wilderness journey, God was establishing the priesthood to lead the people in worship and to offer sacrifices on their behalf. The priests had a unique and holy role in the community, and their ordination required specific rituals to symbolize their separation from the rest of the people and their dedication to God.
The use of blood in these rituals was central to the idea of atonement and purification. Blood, representing life, was a means by which sin was atoned for and holiness was imparted. The detailed instructions for the consecration of Aaron and his sons were designed to ensure that they were fully prepared and sanctified for their sacred duties.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 29:20 emphasizes the total dedication required of those who serve God. The application of blood to the ear, thumb, and toe signifies that every aspect of the priests’ lives was to be consecrated to God. This total consecration is a reminder that service to God is not just about performing religious duties; it involves a complete commitment of the heart, mind, and body.
This verse also underscores the importance of obedience, service, and walking in God’s ways. The ear represents the need to listen to and obey God’s commands, the thumb symbolizes the work done in God’s service, and the toe signifies the need to walk in God’s paths. Together, these actions highlight the holistic nature of true worship and service to God.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 29:20 is a descriptive verse that focuses on the specific ritual actions required during the ordination of the priests. The language is detailed and precise, emphasizing the importance of each step in the process. The repetition of the phrase “on the right” (ear, thumb, and toe) indicates a deliberate focus on the right side, which in biblical symbolism often represents strength, authority, and favor.
The verse is part of the larger narrative of Exodus, which provides detailed instructions for the consecration of the priests and the establishment of the tabernacle. The careful attention to ritual detail reflects the seriousness with which God views the preparation and dedication of those who serve Him.
Biblical Cross-References
Several other biblical passages relate to the themes found in Exodus 29:20:
- Leviticus 8:23-24: This passage describes the actual consecration of Aaron and his sons, where Moses applies the blood as instructed, fulfilling the command given in Exodus 29:20.
- Isaiah 6:8: Isaiah’s willingness to serve God (“Here am I, send me!”) echoes the complete dedication symbolized by the blood applied to the ear, hand, and foot.
- Romans 6:13: Paul encourages believers to offer every part of themselves to God as instruments of righteousness, reflecting the holistic dedication seen in the ordination of the priests.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 29:20 serves as a powerful reminder of the call to total commitment in service to God. Just as the priests were consecrated with blood applied to their ear, hand, and foot, believers are called to dedicate their hearing, actions, and walk to the Lord. This verse challenges Christians to examine their lives and to ensure that every part is fully committed to God’s service.
This verse also highlights the importance of obedience, action, and walking in God’s ways. Christians are called to listen to God’s word, to act in accordance with His will, and to live lives that reflect His holiness.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 29:20 reflects God’s love in His desire to have His people fully dedicated to Him. By providing detailed instructions for the consecration of the priests, God was ensuring that they were properly prepared to serve Him and to lead His people in worship. This verse reveals God’s loving care in making a way for His people to approach Him and serve Him in holiness.
God’s love is also seen in the way He sanctifies those He calls to serve Him. The application of blood to the priests symbolizes the cleansing and sanctification that God provides, enabling His people to serve Him in purity and truth.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Exodus 29:20 connects directly to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate High Priest and the perfect fulfillment of the sacrificial system. Just as the blood of the ram was applied to the priests to consecrate them, Jesus’ blood was shed to consecrate and sanctify all believers. His sacrifice cleanses not just parts of our lives but our entire being, enabling us to serve God fully and completely.
In Hebrews 10:10, it is written that “we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” This verse connects the Old Testament ritual of consecration with the work of Christ, who sanctifies believers through His perfect sacrifice.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the application of blood in Exodus 29:20 challenge us to consider the completeness of our own dedication to God?
- In what ways can we ensure that our ears, hands, and feet—what we listen to, what we do, and how we walk—are fully consecrated to God’s service?
- How does this verse encourage us to reflect on the significance of Christ’s sacrifice and its implications for our daily lives?
- What does it mean for us to be sanctified for God’s service, and how can we live out this calling in practical ways?
- How can we show gratitude for the way God has provided a means of cleansing and consecration through Jesus, just as He provided the sacrificial system for the Israelites?