The role of the priest in the Bible is a significant one, serving as a mediator between God and His people. The priesthood is established in the Old Testament, primarily within the context of the Levitical priesthood, which is detailed extensively in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. The functions and duties of priests are multifaceted, encompassing religious, ceremonial, and judicial responsibilities.

Consecration and Holiness

Priests were required to be consecrated and maintain a standard of holiness, as they were set apart for the service of God. The consecration process is described in Exodus 29 and Leviticus 8, involving rituals such as washing, anointing with oil, and the offering of sacrifices. Leviticus 21 outlines the standards of holiness expected of priests, emphasizing their need to remain ceremonially clean and avoid defilement.

Sacrificial Duties

One of the primary functions of the priest was to offer sacrifices on behalf of the people. The sacrificial system is central to the Levitical law, with various offerings prescribed for different purposes, including burnt offerings, sin offerings, and peace offerings (Leviticus 1-7). The priest acted as an intermediary, presenting these offerings to God to atone for the sins of the people and to maintain fellowship with Him.

Teaching and Instruction

Priests were also responsible for teaching the Law to the Israelites. They were to instruct the people in the statutes and commandments of God, ensuring that His laws were understood and followed. This educational role is highlighted in passages such as Leviticus 10:11, "You must teach the Israelites all the statutes that the LORD has given them through Moses."

Judicial Responsibilities

In addition to their religious duties, priests often served as judges in legal matters, particularly those involving religious or ceremonial law. Deuteronomy 17:8-13 describes the role of the priest in adjudicating difficult cases, emphasizing their authority in interpreting the Law and making binding decisions.

Intercessory Role

The priest also served as an intercessor, praying on behalf of the people and seeking God's favor and forgiveness. This is exemplified in the Day of Atonement rituals described in Leviticus 16, where the high priest would enter the Holy of Holies to make atonement for the sins of the nation.

Maintenance of the Sanctuary

Priests were charged with the care and maintenance of the Tabernacle, and later the Temple. This included ensuring that the sacred space was kept pure and that the rituals and ceremonies were conducted according to divine instructions. Numbers 18:1-7 outlines the responsibilities of the priests and Levites in caring for the sanctuary and its furnishings.

Blessing the People

Another important duty of the priest was to pronounce blessings upon the people. The Aaronic blessing, found in Numbers 6:24-26, is a well-known example: "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace."

The High Priest

The high priest held a unique position within the priesthood, with additional responsibilities and privileges. He was the only one permitted to enter the Holy of Holies, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2-34). The high priest also wore special garments, as described in Exodus 28, symbolizing his role as the spiritual leader of the nation.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the concept of priesthood is transformed through the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is described as the ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). Believers are also referred to as a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), indicating a shift from the Old Testament priestly system to a new covenant where all Christians have direct access to God through Christ.

The priestly functions and duties, as outlined in the Bible, reflect the importance of mediation, holiness, and service in the relationship between God and His people. These roles underscore the sacred responsibility of the priesthood in maintaining the spiritual well-being of the community and facilitating worship and communion with the divine.