Leviticus 8:34 - What has been done today, so Yahweh has commanded to do, to make atonement for you.

Generated Verse: Leviticus 8:34

What does "Leviticus 8:34" mean?


Leviticus 8:34 is part of the concluding summary of the ordination ceremony for Aaron and his sons as priests. To understand its meaning, it's important to consider the context of the chapter:

Ordination Ceremony: Leviticus 8 details the specific steps Moses took to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests. This included washing, clothing, anointing with oil, and offering sacrifices.
Consecration Period: The ordination process was not a one-day event. Verse 33 explains that Aaron and his sons were to remain at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting for seven days to fulfill their consecration.
Atonement: A significant part of the consecration involved sacrifices to make atonement (Hebrew: kippur) for the priests. This was necessary because even those chosen to serve in the Tabernacle were still sinners in need of purification.

Therefore, Leviticus 8:34 means:

"What has been done today..." refers to all the rituals, sacrifices, and procedures Moses performed that day as part of the ordination ceremony, as specifically outlined in the preceding verses.
"...so Yahweh has commanded to do..." emphasizes that these actions were not arbitrary. They were divinely ordained by Yahweh (God) and meticulously followed according to His instructions. This highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands in worship and atonement.
"...to make atonement for you." This is the core purpose of the entire ordination process. The sacrifices and rituals were performed to purify and cleanse Aaron and his sons, atoning for their sins and enabling them to serve as priests and intercede between God and the people.

In essence, the verse is a reminder that the actions of the day (the ordination ceremony) were divinely commanded and carried out specifically to purify and consecrate the priests for their sacred duties. The phrase "make atonement for you" highlights the overarching theme of cleansing and reconciliation with God.

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