Exodus 30:20

Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))

إِذا دَخَلوا خَيمَةَ المَوعِد، فلْيَغتَسِلوا بِمَاءٍ لِئَلاَّ يَموتوا، وإِذا تَقَدَّموا إِلى المَذبَحِ لِيَخدِموا ويُحرِقوا ذبيحةً بِالنَّارِ لِلرَّبّ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Exodus says that the priests must wash with water before entering the tabernacle or before offering sacrifices to God. This is to prevent them from dying due to impurity. God is speaking to Moses, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and purity in religious duties.

Explained for Children

Imagine if every time you went into your room to play with your toys, you had to wash your hands first to make sure you didn't get sick. That's what the priests had to do before they went into God's special house or helped with special offerings to God.

Historical Background

Moses wrote this verse as part of God's instructions for the Israelites around 1446 BC. The verse is directed at the priests who would serve in the tabernacle, which was the portable place of worship for the Israelites as they wandered in the wilderness.

Living It Out Today

In modern terms, this verse can be applied to the importance of preparation and purification before engaging in any sacred or important task. For example, before making an important decision or leading a meeting, taking time to reflect and seek guidance can be crucial.

Topics

• purity
• worship
• priesthood
• obedience
• sanctification
• sacrifice

Related Verses

• Numbers 8:7
• Leviticus 16:24
• Ezekiel 44:18
• John 13:10
• Revelation 1:4

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the priests need to wash?

The priests needed to wash to maintain purity and avoid death, as impurity could be fatal in their religious duties according to the instructions given by God.

What would happen if the priests didn't wash?

If the priests did not wash, they risked dying due to impurity, as stated in the verse. This was a serious matter to ensure they were properly prepared for their duties.

How does this apply to modern believers?

Modern believers can apply this principle by preparing themselves spiritually before engaging in worship or other significant religious activities, ensuring they are in the right state of mind and heart.

What is the significance of the tabernacle?

The tabernacle was the place where God dwelled among the Israelites, serving as a central point for worship and religious ceremonies, symbolizing God's presence and the importance of a sacred space.