Topical Encyclopedia In the consecration of the priests, the application of blood to the ear holds significant symbolic meaning within the Old Testament priestly rituals. This act is primarily described in the Book of Exodus, where God provides Moses with detailed instructions for the ordination of Aaron and his sons as priests.Biblical Context The specific ritual involving the application of blood to the ear is found in Exodus 29:20 and Leviticus 8:23-24. These passages describe the consecration ceremony for Aaron and his sons, marking their dedication to the priestly office. The Berean Standard Bible translates Exodus 29:20 as follows: "Slaughter the ram, take some of its blood, and put it on the right earlobe of Aaron and his sons, on the thumbs of their right hands, and on the big toes of their right feet. Then sprinkle the blood on the altar all around." Symbolism and Significance 1. Hearing and Obedience: The application of blood to the right ear symbolizes the priest's duty to listen to and obey God's commandments. The ear, as the organ of hearing, represents the priest's readiness to hear God's word and the needs of the people. This act signifies the priest's commitment to be attentive to divine instructions and to serve as an intermediary between God and the Israelites. 2. Holistic Dedication: The ritual also involves the application of blood to the thumb and big toe, symbolizing the consecration of the priest's actions and walk. Together, these acts represent the total dedication of the priest's faculties—his hearing, actions, and path—to the service of God. The ear, as part of this triad, underscores the importance of listening as foundational to faithful service. 3. Purification and Atonement: Blood, as a purifying and atoning agent, signifies the cleansing of the priest from sin and the establishment of a holy status before God. The application of blood to the ear indicates that the priest's ability to hear and respond to God is sanctified, setting him apart for sacred duties. 4. Covenantal Relationship: The use of blood in the consecration ritual reflects the covenantal relationship between God and His people. By marking the ear with blood, the priest is reminded of his role in maintaining the covenant, acting as a mediator who brings the concerns of the people before God and communicates God's will to them. Theological Implications The act of placing blood on the ear during the consecration of priests highlights the importance of obedience and attentiveness to God's voice in spiritual leadership. It serves as a reminder that those who are called to serve must be wholly dedicated to their divine mission, with every aspect of their being—hearing, actions, and walk—consecrated to God's service. This ritual underscores the sacred responsibility of priests to faithfully represent God to the people and to intercede on their behalf. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 29:20Then shall you kill the ram, and take of his blood, and put it on the tip of the right ear of Aaron, and on the tip of the right ear of his sons, and on the thumb of their right hand, and on the great toe of their right foot, and sprinkle the blood on the altar round about. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 8:23 Library Entire Sanctification in Type. Against the Arians, and Concerning Himself. The Blessing of God. Consecration to God --Illustrated by Abraham's Circumcision The Glorious Master and the Swooning Disciple Altogether Lovely The Puritan Innovations Whether There Can be any Suitable Cause for the Sacraments of the ... Scriptural Types. Treatise on the Priesthood. Book iii. Resources Summary of the Book of Nehemiah - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of shibboleth in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why won't God heal amputees? | GotQuestions.org Ear: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Ear: Anointed With Oil in Purifications Ear: Blood Put Upon, in Consecration of Priest Ear: Bored As a Sign of Servitude The Ear of Servants Who Refused to Leave Their Masters, Bored to The The Ear of the Wicked: Itching The Ear of the Wicked: Not Inclined to Hear God The Ear of the Wicked: Stopped Against God's Word The Ear of the Wicked: Turned Away from God's Law The Ear of the Wicked: Uncircumcised The Ear: Blood Put on the Right Ear of Priests at Consecration The Ear: Blood Put on the Right Ear of The Healed Leper in Cleansing Him The Ear: Capable of Trying and Distinguishing Words The Ear: God: Judicially Closed The Ear: Instruction Received Through The Ear: Not Satisfied With Earthly Things The Ear: Not to be Stopped at Cry of the Poor The Ear: Often Adorned With Rings The Ear: should be Bowed Down to Instructions The Ear: should be Given to the Law of God The Ear: should be Incline to Wisdom The Ear: should Hear and Obey Reproof The Ear: should Receive the Word of God The Ear: should Seek Knowledge The Ear: That Hears and Receives the Word of God, Blessed Related Terms Supplications (32 Occurrences) Trespass-offering (34 Occurrences) Guilt-offering (34 Occurrences) |
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