The role of the High Priest and the priests in the Old Testament is central to the religious life of Israel, serving as mediators between God and His people. The initiation of their work is a significant event, marking the establishment of the Levitical priesthood as ordained by God through Moses.

Biblical Foundation

The establishment of the priesthood is detailed in the Book of Exodus and Leviticus. God commands Moses to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests, setting them apart for sacred duties. Exodus 28:1 states, "And bring near to you your brother Aaron and his sons with him from among the Israelites to serve Me as priests—Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron’s sons."

Consecration and Ordination

The consecration of the priests is a meticulous process described in Leviticus 8. Moses, acting under divine instruction, anoints Aaron and his sons, clothing them in sacred garments and performing sacrifices to sanctify them for their duties. Leviticus 8:6-9 describes part of this process: "Then Moses presented Aaron and his sons and washed them with water. He put the tunic on Aaron, tied the sash around him, clothed him with the robe, and put the ephod on him. He fastened the ephod with its woven waistband, tying it around him. Then he put the breastpiece on him and placed the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece. And he put the turban on Aaron’s head and set the gold plate, the holy diadem, on the front of the turban, as the LORD had commanded him."

Functions and Duties

The primary function of the High Priest and the priests was to offer sacrifices and maintain the rituals of the Tabernacle, and later the Temple, ensuring the atonement of the people's sins. The High Priest, in particular, had the unique role of entering the Holy of Holies once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) to make atonement for himself and the nation (Leviticus 16).

The priests also taught the Law, served as judges in certain disputes, and maintained the sacred fire on the altar. They were responsible for the showbread, the menorah, and the incense, ensuring that the worship of Yahweh was conducted according to His commandments.

Symbolism and Typology

The High Priest and the priesthood serve as a typology of Christ in the New Testament. Hebrews 4:14 refers to Jesus as the "great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God." The earthly priesthood foreshadows the ultimate mediation of Christ, who offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin.

Challenges and Failures

Despite their sacred calling, the priesthood faced challenges and failures. The sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, are examples of priests who abused their positions, leading to divine judgment (1 Samuel 2:12-17). Such failures highlight the need for a perfect High Priest, fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Restoration and Renewal

Throughout Israel's history, periods of apostasy led to the neglect of the priestly duties. However, reforms under leaders like Hezekiah and Josiah brought renewal, as seen in 2 Chronicles 29:4-5 : "Then he brought in the priests and Levites, gathered them in the square on the east side, and said, 'Listen to me, O Levites! Consecrate yourselves now, and consecrate the house of the LORD, the God of your fathers. Remove all the defilement from the sanctuary.'"

The work of the High Priest and the priests is foundational to understanding the covenant relationship between God and Israel, serving as a precursor to the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ.