Exodus 40:10 - You shall anoint the altar of burnt offering, with all its vessels, and sanctify the altar: and the altar will be most holy.

Generated Verse: Exodus 40:10

What does "Exodus 40:10" mean?


Exodus 40:10, "You shall anoint the altar of burnt offering, with all its vessels, and sanctify the altar: and the altar will be most holy," is a key verse in the dedication of the Tabernacle. Let's break it down:

"You shall anoint the altar of burnt offering, with all its vessels..." This instructs Moses (or the appointed priest) to apply holy oil to the altar of burnt offering and all the tools (vessels) used with it. The altar was the central place for sacrifices offered to God. The vessels would include items like pans for ashes, shovels, basins for blood, flesh hooks, and firepans.

"...and sanctify the altar..." To sanctify means to set apart as holy for God's exclusive use. Anointing with oil was a symbolic act that dedicated the altar, changing its status from ordinary to sacred. This meant the altar was now devoted solely to God's purposes and could not be used for any other task.

"...and the altar will be most holy." This highlights the result of the anointing and sanctification process. The altar would become "most holy" (literally, "holy of holies"). This emphasizes the altar's extreme sacredness and underscores the reverence and care required when interacting with it. It was the place where atonement for sins was made through sacrifice, making it a central point of connection between God and His people.

In summary, the verse means:

God commanded that the altar of burnt offering, and all its associated utensils, be ceremonially anointed with holy oil. This act would sanctify (set apart) the altar for God's exclusive use in offering sacrifices. As a result of this process, the altar would become exceedingly holy, signifying its unique and important role in the worship of God.

Significance:

Dedication and Consecration: The anointing and sanctification ceremony marked the completion of the Tabernacle and its dedication to God.
Separation for Divine Purpose: It emphasizes the principle of setting apart certain objects and individuals for holy purposes.
Holiness of God: The phrase "most holy" underscores the holiness of God and the need for reverence in His presence.
Atonement: The altar's holiness was linked to its function in the atonement for sins. The sacrifices offered on the altar provided a means of reconciliation between God and the people.

The verse is a reminder that God's presence requires special reverence and that approaching Him requires proper preparation and sanctification.

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