Exodus 30:21

Arabic Simplified (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

فَلْيَغْسِلُوا أيدِيَهُمْ وَأرجُلَهُمْ كَي لَا يَمُوتُوا. فَلتُحْفَظْ هَذِهِ الفَرِيضَةُ جِيلًا بَعْدَ جِيلٍ لِهَارُونَ وَلِنَسْلِهِ.»

What Does This Mean?

Exodus 30:21 tells us that the priests must wash their hands and feet before they serve in the sanctuary to avoid death. This rule is to be observed forever by the priests and their descendants. God is speaking to Moses, emphasizing the importance of ritual cleanliness.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have to wash your hands and feet before you can play with your favorite toy. This is like that, but for the priests. They have to keep clean so they don't get in trouble with God. And they have to keep doing this for a very, very long time.

Historical Background

This verse was written by Moses around 1440 BC, addressing the Israelites who were preparing to build the Tabernacle. The text reflects the cultural and religious practices of that time, emphasizing the importance of ritual purity for the priests.

Living It Out Today

In a modern context, this verse reminds us of the importance of hygiene and preparation before engaging in tasks that require us to be clean and ready. For instance, before cooking a meal for guests, we ensure our hands are clean to prevent illness and show respect for the task and the people we serve.

Topics

• ritual purity
• priesthood
• hygiene
• eternal statutes
• God's commandments
• respect

Related Verses

• Numbers 8:7
• Leviticus 16:24
• Exodus 19:10
• 1 Timothy 5:22
• John 13:10

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is washing hands and feet important in this verse?

Washing hands and feet is a ritual act of cleansing that symbolizes the removal of impurities, ensuring the priests are ready to serve God without risking death due to impurity.

How does this verse relate to the concept of eternal statutes?

This verse establishes a permanent rule for the priests and their descendants, reflecting the idea of eternal statutes that must be followed generation after generation without fail.

What does this verse teach us about God’s expectations of the priests?

God expects the priests to maintain a state of ritual purity by washing their hands and feet, showing the high standards God sets for those who serve in his sanctuary.

How can we apply the principle of preparation and cleanliness from this verse in our daily lives?

We can apply the principle of preparation and cleanliness by ensuring we are ready and clean before engaging in important tasks or activities, reflecting respect and readiness in what we do.