Topical Bible: Priests: Ceremonies at Consecration of Placing in Their Hands the Wave-Offering

◄ Priests: Ceremonies at Consecration of Placing in Their Hands the Wave-Offering ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The consecration of priests in the Old Testament is a significant event that underscores the sanctity and dedication required for those who serve in the priestly office. One of the key ceremonies involved in this consecration is the placing of the wave offering in the hands of the priests. This ritual is detailed in the Book of Exodus and Leviticus, where God provides specific instructions to Moses regarding the ordination of Aaron and his sons.

Biblical Context and Instructions

The wave offering is part of a larger sacrificial system instituted by God for the Israelites. In Exodus 29 and Leviticus 8, the consecration of Aaron and his sons is described in detail. The wave offering, in particular, is a symbolic act of presenting a portion of the sacrifice to God, signifying the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people.

In Exodus 29:22-24 , the instructions for the wave offering are as follows:

"Take from the ram the fat, the fat tail, the fat that covers the entrails, the lobe of the liver, both kidneys with the fat on them, and the right thigh (for it is a ram of ordination), along with one loaf of bread, one cake of bread made with oil, and one wafer from the basket of unleavened bread that is before the LORD. Put all these in the hands of Aaron and his sons and wave them before the LORD as a wave offering."

This passage highlights the specific elements of the sacrifice that are to be used in the wave offering. The act of placing these items in the hands of the priests signifies their active participation in the sacrificial process and their acceptance of the responsibilities of their office.

Symbolism and Significance

The wave offering is rich in symbolism. By placing the offering in the hands of the priests, it represents the transfer of the offering from the people to God, with the priests serving as intermediaries. The act of waving the offering before the LORD is a gesture of dedication and submission, acknowledging God's sovereignty and the priest's role in facilitating worship and atonement.

The inclusion of specific parts of the sacrifice, such as the fat and the right thigh, underscores the importance of offering the best portions to God. This reflects the principle that God deserves the choicest parts of any offering, a theme consistent throughout the sacrificial system.

Theological Implications

The ceremony of placing the wave offering in the hands of the priests is a profound reminder of the holiness required in approaching God. It emphasizes the need for purity, dedication, and obedience in those who serve in His presence. The priests, as representatives of the people, must themselves be consecrated and set apart for their sacred duties.

Furthermore, this ritual foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who perfectly mediates between God and humanity. As the fulfillment of the Old Testament priesthood, Christ embodies the perfect sacrifice and the perfect mediator, rendering the need for continual sacrifices obsolete.

Conclusion

The ceremony of placing the wave offering in the hands of the priests during their consecration is a vital component of the Old Testament sacrificial system. It serves as a powerful symbol of dedication, mediation, and the holiness required of those who serve God. Through this ritual, the foundational principles of worship and atonement are vividly illustrated, pointing ultimately to the redemptive work of Christ.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 29:22-24
Also you shall take of the ram the fat and the rump, and the fat that covers the inwards, and the lobe above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that is on them, and the right shoulder; for it is a ram of consecration:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Leviticus 8:25-27
And he took the fat, and the rump, and all the fat that was on the inwards, and the lobe above the liver, and the two kidneys, and their fat, and the right shoulder:
Torrey's Topical Textbook