What is the meaning of Exodus 29:26? Take the breast “Take the breast of the ram…” (Exodus 29:26) • The breast was singled out as a choice cut, representing strength and vitality (cf. Leviticus 7:31–32, where the breast is reserved for Aaron’s family). • By naming the breast first, God highlights His right to the best, modeling the principle later echoed in Proverbs 3:9—“Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” of the ram • This is not just any animal but “the ram of ordination” (Leviticus 8:22). • Rams symbolized substitutionary sacrifice (Genesis 22:13) and consecration; their costliness underscores the weight of approaching God. of Aaron’s ordination • The act occurs at the pivotal moment when Aaron is set apart for lifelong priestly service (Exodus 29:1–9). • Every detail in the ceremony points forward to Christ, our great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14–15), whose own consecration was sealed at the cross (Hebrews 10:14). and wave it • “Wave” means to present by lifting and moving it before the altar (Leviticus 8:27). • The motion depicts transfer: the breast moves from human hands into the realm of God’s ownership, similar to Psalm 24:1—“The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it.” before the LORD • The location is crucial—directly “before the LORD,” where His glory dwells (Exodus 29:42–46). • Worship is never private ritual; it is face-to-face acknowledgment of God’s presence (Deuteronomy 12:7). as a wave offering • Wave offerings are repeated in Israel’s calendar (Numbers 6:20; Leviticus 10:14–15) to affirm that all gifts ultimately return to God. • This offering type foreshadows the upward ascent of Christ’s resurrection, the ultimate presentation before the Father (Ephesians 5:2). and it will be your portion • After being presented, the breast returns to Moses here—and later to the priests—as their food (Numbers 18:8–11). • God provides for His servants through the very offerings given to Him, anticipating how gospel workers “live from the gospel” (1 Corinthians 9:13–14). • The portion also teaches reliance on God rather than on personal gain (Matthew 6:33). summary Exodus 29:26 shows a sacred exchange: the choicest part of the ordination ram is lifted up to God, openly declaring His ownership, and then given back to sustain His servant. The act weaves together consecration, substitution, and provision—each strand pointing to Christ, who was offered up for us and now shares His own portion with all who minister in His name. |
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