The Laver of Brass, also known as the Bronze Laver, holds significant importance in the context of the Tabernacle, the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. The laver was a large basin used by the priests for ceremonial washing, symbolizing purification and preparation before approaching the holy presence of God. Its construction and use are detailed in the Book of Exodus, where it is described as an essential component of the Tabernacle's furnishings.

Biblical Description and Purpose

The instructions for the construction of the Laver of Brass are found in Exodus 30:17-21. The LORD commanded Moses, saying, "You are to make a bronze basin with a bronze stand for washing. Place it between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, and put water in it. Aaron and his sons are to wash their hands and feet with water from it. Whenever they enter the Tent of Meeting or approach the altar to minister by presenting an offering made by fire to the LORD, they must wash with water, so that they will not die" (Exodus 30:18-20). This ritual washing was a divine mandate, underscoring the necessity of purity and holiness in the service of God.

Wisdom Given to Bezaleel

The construction of the Laver of Brass was entrusted to Bezaleel, a skilled artisan filled with the Spirit of God. Exodus 31:1-5 records, "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship, to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze.'" Bezaleel's divine endowment of wisdom and skill was crucial for the creation of the Tabernacle's sacred objects, including the laver.

Symbolism and Significance

The laver's placement between the Tent of Meeting and the altar signifies its role as a mediator of purification. The priests' act of washing their hands and feet before entering the Tent or approaching the altar symbolizes the cleansing from sin and the preparation required to serve in God's presence. The use of bronze, a durable and resilient material, further emphasizes the laver's enduring role in the ritual life of Israel.

The laver's construction from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting (Exodus 38:8) adds a layer of symbolic meaning. These mirrors, made of polished bronze, reflect the transformation from objects of personal vanity to instruments of divine service, illustrating the call to holiness and selflessness in the worship of God.

Theological Implications

The Laver of Brass serves as a powerful reminder of the necessity of spiritual cleansing and preparation in the life of believers. It prefigures the New Testament concept of sanctification, where believers are called to purify themselves through the washing of water by the Word (Ephesians 5:26). The laver's role in the Tabernacle worship underscores the holiness of God and the requirement for His people to approach Him with clean hands and pure hearts.

In summary, the Laver of Brass, crafted under the divine wisdom given to Bezaleel, stands as a testament to the importance of purity and preparation in the worship of God. Its presence in the Tabernacle highlights the ongoing need for spiritual cleansing and the transformative power of God's sanctifying work in the lives of His people.Exodus 31:2,9
See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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