Book of Leviticus - Chapter 8 - Verse 11
Meaning
Here, in this verse, we see the act of sprinkling blood on the altar seven times and anointing all the vessels of the altar with the blood. In the context of the Old Testament, this action was a part of the consecration process. The sprinkling of the blood symbolizes the atonement for sins and the sanctification of the altar and its vessels. By anointing the altar and its vessels with blood, they were set apart for holy use in the service of God. This act of sanctification was essential for the Israelites as they sought to worship God in a manner that was pleasing to Him. Through this ritual of sprinkling and anointing, the altar and its vessels were dedicated to God and made fit for the sacred duties they were intended for. It was a symbolic act that represented the purification and consecration required to approach and serve a holy God.
Theological Overview
One of the key aspects of the verse "And he sprinkled thereof upon the altar seven times, and anointed the altar and all his vessels, both the laver and his foot, to sanctify them." is the act of sprinkling and anointing for the purpose of sanctification. In the Old Testament, sprinkling blood was a common practice used in rituals to purify and consecrate items or individuals for the service of God. The number seven is significant in biblical numerology, symbolizing completeness and perfection. The act of anointing with oil was also a symbol of consecration and setting apart for God's holy purposes. By performing these actions on the altar and its vessels, Aaron, the high priest, was ensuring that they were set apart and made holy for use in the worship of the Lord. This act of sanctification was not just a physical ritual, but a spiritual act symbolizing the separation of the sacred from the ordinary and the dedication of all things to God's service.