Exodus 29:4
And Aaron and his sons thou shalt bring unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and shalt wash them with water.
Original Language Analysis
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
1 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
בָּנָיו֙
and his sons
H1121
בָּנָיו֙
and his sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
4 of 12
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
תַּקְרִ֔יב
thou shalt bring
H7126
תַּקְרִ֔יב
thou shalt bring
Strong's:
H7126
Word #:
5 of 12
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose
פֶּ֖תַח
unto the door
H6607
פֶּ֖תַח
unto the door
Strong's:
H6607
Word #:
7 of 12
an opening (literally), i.e., door (gate) or entrance way
אֹ֣הֶל
of the tabernacle
H168
אֹ֣הֶל
of the tabernacle
Strong's:
H168
Word #:
8 of 12
a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)
מוֹעֵ֑ד
of the congregation
H4150
מוֹעֵ֑ד
of the congregation
Strong's:
H4150
Word #:
9 of 12
properly, an appointment, i.e., a fixed time or season; specifically, a festival; conventionally a year; by implication, an assembly (as convened for
וְרָֽחַצְתָּ֥
and shalt wash
H7364
וְרָֽחַצְתָּ֥
and shalt wash
Strong's:
H7364
Word #:
10 of 12
to lave (the whole or a part of a thing)
Cross References
Historical Context
The washing (רָחַץ, rachatz) likely involved complete bathing, not mere hand/foot washing. This initial cleansing at consecration differed from daily washings at the bronze laver—one comprehensive cleansing followed by regular maintenance washings.
Questions for Reflection
- How does regeneration (spiritual washing) precede all other aspects of Christian life?
- What is the difference between initial cleansing (salvation) and ongoing cleansing (sanctification)?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Aaron and his sons are brought to the tabernacle entrance and 'washed with water.' Water washing symbolizes cleansing, regeneration (Titus 3:5). Before wearing holy garments or touching sacred things, priests must be washed. This prefigures Christian baptism—outward sign of inward cleansing through Christ's blood. The washing precedes clothing, anointing, and sacrifice, establishing that cleansing is foundational. We must be washed before we can serve.