What role did the priests and Levites play in Ezra 6:20's Passover celebration? Setting the scene The second temple has just been completed (Ezra 6:15–18). Joy overflows, yet worship must proceed exactly as God prescribed. Verse 20 gives the snapshot: “Because the priests and Levites had purified themselves as one, they were all ceremonially clean. And they slaughtered the Passover lamb for all the exiles, for their fellow priests, and for themselves.” (Ezra 6:20) The purification of the priests and Levites • “Purified themselves as one” – united obedience to God’s commands for holiness (cf. Leviticus 8; Numbers 8:6–22). • Ceremonial cleanness enabled them to handle sacred things without bringing judgment on the people (Exodus 30:20–21). • Their personal holiness set the spiritual tone for the entire nation (Haggai 2:11–14). Preparing and slaughtering the Passover lambs • The Levites took the lead in killing the animals, a task normally done by each household (Exodus 12:3–6). • They did so – “for all the exiles” (ordinary worshipers), – “for their fellow priests” (who then applied the blood at the altar), – “and for themselves.” • This division of labor mirrors earlier reforms: – Hezekiah’s Passover: “The Levites slaughtered the Passover lambs for all who were not ceremonially clean” (2 Chronicles 30:17). – Josiah’s Passover: “They slaughtered the Passover offerings… the Levites skinned the animals” (2 Chronicles 35:11). Serving the people • The Levites acted as mediators, allowing returning exiles—many unfamiliar with temple service after decades in Babylon—to participate fully. • Their ministry removed logistical barriers, ensuring every household could obey God’s statute the very first year the temple stood. • By handling the sacrifices efficiently, they preserved the joyous focus of the feast (Deuteronomy 16:1–8). Continuity with God’s design • Priests: offered the blood and incense; Levites: assisted, guarded, taught (Numbers 18:1–7). • Ezra 6 confirms that post-exilic worship aligned with the Mosaic pattern, demonstrating God’s faithfulness to restore both people and priesthood (Jeremiah 33:17–22). Spiritual significance today • Holiness precedes service. Just as the priests and Levites purified themselves, believers are called to “cleanse ourselves… perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1). • Intercessory ministry flourishes through humble service. The Levites placed others first; likewise, we are “a royal priesthood” charged to serve one another (1 Peter 2:9). • The sacrificed lambs foreshadow “Christ, our Passover Lamb” who “has been sacrificed for us” (1 Corinthians 5:7). Their faithful service points directly to His once-for-all atonement. |
    |