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Book of Numbers - Chapter 4 - Verse 16

4:16
And to the office of Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest pertaineth the oil for the light, and the sweet incense, and the daily meat offering, and the anointing oil, and the oversight of all the tabernacle, and of all that therein is, in the sanctuary, and in the vessels thereof.

Meaning

The verse you are referring to is from the book of Exodus, specifically Exodus 27:21. In this verse, Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, is assigned specific duties related to the tabernacle and its services. Eleazar is responsible for the oil used for the light, the sweet incense, the daily meat offering, the anointing oil, and the oversight of all aspects of the tabernacle and its vessels. This verse highlights the importance of Eleazar's role in maintaining the sanctity and order of the tabernacle. The oil for the light symbolizes the presence of God, the sweet incense represents prayers ascending to heaven, and the anointing oil signifies consecration and empowerment. Eleazar's oversight ensures that all offerings and rituals are carried out according to God's instructions, ensuring the proper functioning of the sanctuary. This verse emphasizes the importance of designated roles and responsibilities within the religious community, demonstrating the significance of order and structure in worship.

Theological Overview

The verse highlights the specific responsibilities assigned to Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, within the tabernacle. Eleazar was tasked with overseeing the various elements necessary for the spiritual practices within the sanctuary. This included the provision of oil for the light, sweet incense, daily meat offering, anointing oil, and the general supervision of the tabernacle and its vessels. Each of these items held significant symbolic meanings within the religious practices of the time. The oil for the light symbolized divine guidance and spiritual illumination, while the sweet incense represented prayers rising to God. The daily meat offering served as a form of worship and thanksgiving, and the anointing oil signified consecration and empowerment for service. Eleazar's role in overseeing all these aspects emphasized the importance of ritual purity, obedience, and devotion in the service of God within the sanctuary.

American Standard Version

And the charge of Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest shall be the oil for the light, and the sweet incense, and the continual meal-offering, and the anointing oil, the charge of all the tabernacle, and of all that therein is, the sanctuary, and the furniture thereof.
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