The consecration of priests in the Old Testament is a significant event that underscores the sanctity and divine appointment of the priestly office. The ceremony of consecration, particularly the purification by the blood of the consecration ram, is detailed in the Book of Exodus and Leviticus, providing a profound insight into the ritualistic practices ordained by God for the Levitical priesthood.

Biblical Foundation

The primary scriptural basis for the consecration ceremony is found in Exodus 29 and Leviticus 8. These passages describe the intricate process by which Aaron and his sons were set apart for their sacred duties. The ceremony involved several key elements, including sacrifices, anointing, and the application of blood, each symbolizing different aspects of purification and dedication to God.

The Role of the Consecration Ram

The consecration ram played a pivotal role in the ceremony. After the initial offerings, including a bull for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering, a second ram, known as the "ram of ordination" or "consecration ram," was presented. This ram was central to the purification process, symbolizing the complete dedication of the priests to their divine service.

Application of Blood

The application of the ram's blood was a critical component of the consecration ceremony. As described in Exodus 29:20 , "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 on all sides." This act of applying blood to the ear, thumb, and toe symbolized the sanctification of the priests' hearing, actions, and walk, respectively, dedicating their entire being to the service of God.

Symbolism and Significance

The use of blood in the consecration ceremony is rich with symbolism. Blood, representing life and atonement, was a powerful symbol of purification and sanctification. By applying the blood of the consecration ram, the priests were ritually cleansed and set apart for their holy duties. This act signified their complete submission to God's will and their readiness to mediate between God and the people of Israel.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the consecration of priests through the blood of the ram underscores the necessity of purification and holiness in approaching God. The ceremony foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, whose blood purifies believers and consecrates them as a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). The Old Testament rituals, therefore, find their fulfillment in the New Covenant, where Christ's atoning sacrifice establishes a new order of priesthood for all believers.

Conclusion

The ceremonies at the consecration of priests, particularly the purification by the blood of the consecration ram, highlight the profound spiritual truths of dedication, purification, and service to God. These ancient rituals, while specific to the Levitical priesthood, continue to resonate with believers today, pointing to the ultimate consecration through Christ's sacrifice.Exodus 29:20,21
Then 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.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Leviticus 8:23,24
And he slew it; and Moses took of the blood of it, and put it on the tip of Aaron's right ear, and on the thumb of his right hand, and on the great toe of his right foot.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Scriptural Types.
... the breast of the ram of consecration was waved ... The priests themselves entered the
outer sanctuary daily to ... appears very strikingly in the ceremonies of the ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxxvii scriptural types.htm

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