Exodus 29:17 (KJV)

What does Exodus 29:17 mean?

Exodus 29:17 gives instructions for preparing a ram as part of a special ceremony: the ram is to be cut into pieces, its inner organs and legs are to be washed, and then these parts are to be placed together with the other pieces and the head. This is part of a detailed process for offering sacrifices during the ordination of priests in ancient Israel.

In this verse, God is speaking to Moses, giving him step-by-step directions for how Aaron and his sons should be set apart as priests. The careful cutting, washing, and arranging of the ram’s body parts show the attention to ritual cleanliness and order in Israel’s worship practices. These steps are part of a larger ceremony described in Exodus 29, emphasizing the seriousness and sacredness of the priestly role.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 29:17

• "Cut" (נָתַח, nathach): This word means to divide or cut up, especially in the sense of butchering an animal. The use here highlights the careful, methodical process required for the sacrifice, not just killing but properly preparing each part.
• "Inwards" (קֶרֶב, qerev): This refers to the inner organs of the animal. Washing these parts was important for ritual purity, showing that every part of the offering had to be clean.
• "Legs" (כְּרָעַיִם, kera‘ayim): The legs, like the inner organs, were to be washed before being placed with the other pieces, underlining the thoroughness expected in preparing the sacrifice.
• "Put" (נָתַן, nathan): This word means to place or set. The instruction to put the washed parts with the other pieces and the head shows the need for careful arrangement, not just disposal.

Why Exodus 29:17 matters

• Exodus 29:17 helps clear up the idea that sacrifices were simple or careless; instead, the process was detailed and required attention to cleanliness and order.
• The verse connects to the larger passage by showing how each step in the ordination ceremony was meant to set the priests apart for their special role, emphasizing the seriousness of serving before God.
• Understanding the specific instructions in this verse highlights the importance of ritual purity and obedience in ancient Israel’s relationship with God.