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Book of Exodus - Chapter 40 - Verse 23

40:23
And he set the bread in order upon it before the LORD; as the LORD had commanded Moses.

Meaning

When exploring the Old Testament, specifically the book of Leviticus, we come across a verse that describes the actions of the priest when setting the Bread of the Presence before the Lord in the tabernacle. This act was not a mere formality; it held significant meaning and symbolism. By setting the bread in order as commanded by the Lord through Moses, the priest was acknowledging the provision and sustenance that comes from God alone. The Bread of the Presence represented the constant communion between God and His people, reminding them of His continual presence and provision in their lives. This act was a demonstration of obedience and reverence towards God, highlighting the importance of following His commands as a way to honor and glorify Him. Through this verse, we are reminded of the significance of acknowledging God as the ultimate provider in our lives, and the importance of obeying His commands as a way to show our gratitude and faithfulness towards Him.

Theological Overview

In this verse, which is part of the account of the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests in the book of Leviticus, the act of setting the bread in order before the Lord is significant in terms of theological interpretation and word studies. The term "bread" refers to the showbread or bread of the presence, which was a regular offering placed in the tabernacle to symbolize God's provision and presence among His people. By setting the bread in order before the Lord, Aaron was following the specific instructions given to Moses by the Lord. This act not only demonstrated obedience and reverence towards God but also emphasized the importance of offering the first fruits of the harvest to Him. The meticulous attention to detail in setting the bread in order reflects the Israelites' commitment to honoring God in all aspects of their worship. Overall, this verse highlights the foundational principles of faith, obedience, and worship that are central to the Israelite religious tradition.

American Standard Version

And he set the bread in order upon it before Jehovah; as Jehovah commanded Moses.
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