What is the meaning of Leviticus 16:24? He is to bathe himself with water in a holy place - The priest’s washing underscores God’s insistence on purity before entering His presence (Exodus 30:17-21; Hebrews 10:22). - “Holy place” reminds us that cleansing is not merely hygienic; it is worshipful, done where God designates. - This ritual pictures the believer’s need for continual cleansing even after initial redemption (John 13:10; 1 John 1:9). and put on his own clothes - After ministering in simple linen garments (Leviticus 16:4), the high priest resumes his normal priestly attire, signaling the Day of Atonement rite is complete. - The change of clothes illustrates the transition from extraordinary mediation back to regular service, just as Christ, after His once-for-all sacrifice, “sat down at the right hand of God” (Hebrews 10:12). - It also highlights that holiness must characterize everyday life, not only special moments (Colossians 3:12-14). Then he must go out and sacrifice his burnt offering and the people’s burnt offering - Moving “out” to the altar shows that private cleansing precedes public ministry (1 Timothy 4:16). - Burnt offerings (Leviticus 1:3-9) symbolize total surrender to God; nothing is held back, everything ascends in smoke. - The priest offers one for himself and one for the nation, pointing to Christ who offered Himself wholly for us (Ephesians 5:2; Hebrews 9:14). to make atonement for himself and for the people - Atonement means covering sin so fellowship with God is restored (Leviticus 17:11). - Even the mediator needed atonement, highlighting human limitation and anticipating the sinless Mediator to come (Hebrews 7:26-27). - By including “for himself,” God underscores universal guilt; by including “for the people,” He showcases gracious provision (Romans 3:23-25). summary Leviticus 16:24 walks us through a vivid sequence: cleansing in God’s presence, resuming daily holiness, offering wholehearted sacrifice, and securing comprehensive atonement. Each step magnifies the seriousness of sin and the mercy of God, ultimately pointing to Jesus—the perfectly clean High Priest who offered Himself once for all, so we might live daily in cleansed, committed fellowship with the Father. |
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