Exodus 30:20 – “Whenever they enter the tent of meeting, they shall wash with water so that they will not die. Also, when they approach the altar to minister by presenting a food offering to the Lord,”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Exodus 30:20 provides a solemn instruction to the priests of Israel, specifically Aaron and his sons, concerning their duties in the tabernacle. This verse mandates that the priests must wash with water every time they enter the tent of meeting or approach the altar to offer sacrifices. The washing was not optional; it was a necessary act of purification that had to be performed to prevent the priests from dying. The severity of this command underscores the holiness of God and the serious nature of serving in His presence.

The act of washing symbolizes the need for purity and cleanliness before God. It reflects the understanding that one cannot approach a holy God without being spiritually clean. The command to wash “so that they will not die” highlights the life-and-death importance of following God’s instructions precisely. It teaches that approaching God, especially in the context of worship and sacrifice, is a matter of utmost seriousness.

Historical Context

The tabernacle was the central place of worship for the Israelites during their time in the wilderness. It was where God’s presence dwelled among His people, and it was the place where sacrifices were offered and where the priests performed their sacred duties. Aaron and his sons were appointed by God to serve as priests, responsible for carrying out the rituals and maintaining the sanctity of the tabernacle.

The washing ritual described in Exodus 30:20 was part of a broader system of purification that governed the priests’ activities. This system was designed to ensure that the priests were ceremonially clean and prepared to serve in God’s presence. The command to wash before entering the tent of meeting or approaching the altar was not just about physical cleanliness; it was about spiritual readiness and respect for the holiness of God.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Exodus 30:20 emphasizes the concept of holiness and the need for purification in approaching God. The verse teaches that God is holy, and those who serve Him must be clean, both physically and spiritually. The washing ritual symbolizes the removal of impurity, making the priests fit to stand before God and perform their duties.

This verse also underscores the seriousness of worship and the responsibility of those who lead in worship. The priests were held to a high standard because they represented the people before God and were entrusted with the sacred task of offering sacrifices. The command to wash “so that they will not die” serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of taking God’s holiness lightly.

Literary Analysis

Exodus 30:20 is part of a larger narrative that details the instructions for the tabernacle and the duties of the priests. The verse is structured to convey both the command and the consequence of not following it. The phrase “so that they will not die” adds weight to the instruction, making it clear that this is not a mere suggestion but a life-preserving requirement.

The repetition of the need to wash, both when entering the tent of meeting and when approaching the altar, highlights the importance of purification at every stage of the priests’ service. This repetition serves to reinforce the central theme of holiness and the need for constant vigilance in maintaining purity before God.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Leviticus 16:4: “He is to put on the sacred linen tunic, with linen undergarments next to his body; he is to tie the linen sash around him and put on the linen turban. These are sacred garments; so he must bathe himself with water before he puts them on.” This verse reinforces the importance of washing as part of the priestly duties, particularly on the Day of Atonement.
• Psalm 24:3-4: “Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart.” This psalm reflects the requirement of purity to approach God, a principle embodied in the washing ritual.
• Hebrews 10:22: “Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.” This New Testament verse connects the idea of physical washing with spiritual cleansing, drawing on the imagery of the Old Testament rituals.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, Exodus 30:20 serves as a reminder of the importance of spiritual cleanliness and readiness when approaching God in worship and service. Just as the priests needed to wash before serving in the tabernacle, believers are called to examine their hearts and lives, seeking God’s cleansing through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. This verse challenges Christians to take their worship and service seriously, recognizing the holiness of God and the need to be spiritually prepared.

The washing ritual also serves as a symbol of the ongoing process of sanctification in the life of a believer. Just as the priests washed regularly, Christians are called to continually seek God’s cleansing and to grow in holiness, becoming more like Christ in every aspect of their lives.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Exodus 30:20 reflects God’s love in His provision of a means for purification before entering His presence. God, in His holiness, desires a relationship with His people, but He also provides the way for them to be clean and acceptable before Him. The command to wash before serving is not meant to be a burden but a way to ensure that the priests could approach God safely and without fear.

God’s love is also seen in the detailed instructions He provides, showing His care for the spiritual and physical well-being of His people. By giving the priests a clear method for purification, God was making it possible for them to serve Him faithfully and effectively, while also protecting them from the consequences of impurity.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

The washing ritual in Exodus 30:20 points forward to the ultimate purification provided by Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross offers the final and complete cleansing from sin. While the priests in the Old Testament needed to wash repeatedly to remain pure, Jesus’ atoning work on the cross provides a once-for-all purification that makes believers holy before God.

Jesus’ act of washing His disciples’ feet, as recorded in John 13, also connects to the idea of purification. Through this act, Jesus demonstrated the importance of humility, service, and the ongoing need for spiritual cleansing in the lives of His followers. This act foreshadowed the greater cleansing He would accomplish through His death and resurrection.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does Exodus 30:20 challenge you to examine your own spiritual readiness before approaching God in worship or service?
2. In what ways can you ensure that your heart is clean and pure as you serve God in your daily life?
3. How does understanding the importance of purification in the Old Testament deepen your appreciation for the cleansing work of Jesus Christ?
4. What steps can you take to maintain a life of holiness and spiritual cleanliness before God?
5. How can you encourage others to take seriously the call to purity and holiness in their relationship with God?

This article invites you to reflect on the meaning of Exodus 30:20, considering how it calls for spiritual preparation and purity, and how it finds its ultimate fulfillment in the cleansing work of Jesus Christ.