Exodus 29:16 (KJV)

What does Exodus 29:16 mean?

Exodus 29:16 describes how Moses is to kill a ram, collect its blood, and sprinkle the blood all around the altar as part of a ritual. This is a specific instruction given for the ordination ceremony of priests in ancient Israel.

In this passage, God is speaking to Moses, giving him step-by-step directions for consecrating Aaron and his sons as priests. The act of killing the ram and sprinkling its blood on the altar is part of a larger set of sacrifices and rituals meant to dedicate the altar and those serving at it. The focus is on following God's instructions exactly as given.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 29:16

• "slay" (שָׁחַט, shachat): This word means to slaughter or kill, specifically in the context of ritual sacrifice. It highlights that this is not just any killing, but one done as part of a sacred ceremony.
• "sprinkle" (זָרַק, zarak): This word means to scatter or throw, often used for tossing blood in a ritual way. The action is not just pouring but deliberately scattering the blood around the altar, marking it as set apart.
• "altar" (מִזְבֵּחַ, mizbeach): This is the structure where offerings are made to God. The altar is the central place for sacrifices, and sprinkling blood on it is a way of dedicating it for holy use.

Why Exodus 29:16 matters

• This verse shows the careful, detailed way that sacrifices were to be performed, emphasizing obedience to God's instructions in worship.
• The ritual use of blood in this way sets the stage for understanding how ancient Israel viewed atonement and the seriousness of approaching God.
• Exodus 29:16 is part of a longer process of ordaining priests, connecting this act to the larger theme of holiness and the special role of the priesthood in Israel's relationship with God.