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Book of 2 Chronicles - Chapter 4 - Verse 6

4:6
He made also ten lavers, and put five on the right hand, and five on the left, to wash in them: such things as they offered for the burnt offering they washed in them; but the sea was for the priests to wash in.

Meaning

In this verse, we learn about the construction of ten lavers, five on the right hand, and five on the left. These lavers were used for washing the offerings made for burnt offerings. The sea mentioned in the verse was specifically designated for the priests to wash in. The act of washing the offerings before presenting them was a significant ritual in ancient times, symbolizing purity and cleansing before God. The use of water in religious ceremonies has been a common practice in many cultures throughout history, representing purification and spiritual renewal. The lavers and the sea were essential components of the temple setup, ensuring that all offerings were made in a state of cleanliness and reverence. This verse highlights the attention to detail and the importance of ritual cleanliness in ancient religious practices.

Theological Overview

In this verse from 2 Chronicles, we see the description of ten lavers being made, with five on the right hand and five on the left, for the purpose of washing the burnt offerings. This act of washing was a symbolic gesture of cleansing and purification before presenting the offerings to God. The lavers were strategically placed to ensure proper hygiene and cleanliness in the worship space. Additionally, the verse mentions "the sea," which was specifically designated for the priests to wash in. This emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and purity in the role of the priests as they carried out their duties in the temple. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the significance of approaching God with reverence and purity, symbolized by the act of washing before presenting offerings. This attention to detail in the design of the lavers and the sea reflects the importance of ritual cleanliness in ancient Israelite worship practices, highlighting the sacred nature of their interactions with God.

American Standard Version

He made also ten lavers, and put five on the right hand, and five on the left, to wash in them; such things as belonged to the burnt-offering they washed in them; but the sea was for the priests to wash in.
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