What is the meaning of Leviticus 8:31? And Moses said to Aaron and his sons “And Moses said to Aaron and his sons…” (Leviticus 8:31a) • Moses speaks as God’s appointed mediator (Exodus 7:1; Leviticus 10:11). • Aaron and his sons, newly ordained, are under Moses’ instruction, showing the chain of divine authority. • The verse reminds us that leadership in God’s service begins with listening to the Word delivered through His chosen servant (Hebrews 3:5). Boil the meat at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting “…Boil the meat at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting…” (Leviticus 8:31b) • The meat comes from the ram of ordination (Exodus 29:31–32). • Boiling (rather than roasting) keeps everything contained, preserving holiness and preventing loss of any portion (1 Samuel 2:13–15). • The entrance is a sacred threshold where offerings are presented (Leviticus 1:3; 3:2). The priests must handle holy things in a holy place (Leviticus 6:16). and eat it there “…and eat it there…” (Leviticus 8:31c) • Consumption on-site prevents casual treatment or commercialization of the sacrifice (Deuteronomy 12:18). • Eating in God’s presence symbolizes fellowship between the priests and the LORD (Exodus 24:11). • It underscores that holiness is not merely ritual but relational—sharing a covenant meal with God. with the bread that is in the basket of ordination offerings “…with the bread that is in the basket of ordination offerings…” (Leviticus 8:31d) • The basket held unleavened cakes, wafers, and loaves prepared with oil (Exodus 29:2–3, 23). • Bread and meat together form a complete meal, picturing God’s provision (Psalm 132:15). • The grain elements point to daily sustenance; the meat points to atonement—both needed for priestly service (Leviticus 6:19–22). as I commanded “…as I commanded…” (Leviticus 8:31e) • Moses repeats the instruction first given on Sinai (Exodus 29:35). • Obedience is stressed; the ceremony is valid only when performed exactly as God prescribed (Leviticus 8:34; 10:1–2). • This anticipates later teaching that love for God is shown by keeping His commandments (John 14:15). Aaron and his sons are to eat it “…saying, ‘Aaron and his sons are to eat it.’ ” (Leviticus 8:31f) • Eating the sacrifice sets the priests apart and nourishes them for ministry (Leviticus 7:31–34). • Only those consecrated may share this meal (Leviticus 22:10–13), highlighting the privilege and responsibility of priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). • The act seals their ordination: they internalize what has been offered, symbolizing complete identification with the altar (Hebrews 13:10). summary Leviticus 8:31 directs newly ordained priests to consume the boiled meat and bread of their ordination sacrifice at the Tent’s entrance. Each phrase stresses God-given authority, careful obedience, sacred location, covenant fellowship, and priestly privilege. By eating the offering where it was presented, Aaron and his sons demonstrate wholehearted acceptance of their holy calling and dependence on the LORD’s provision, modeling how service to God must flow from obedient fellowship with Him. |
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