Exodus 40:32
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 40:32
32 When they went into the tent of the congregation, and when they came near unto the altar, they washed; as the LORD commanded Moses.
Chapter Context
Exodus 40 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, fellowship, worship. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-38: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 40:32
32 When they went into the tent of the congregation, and when they came near unto the altar, they washed; as the LORD commanded Moses.
Analysis
Aaron and sons washing 'when they went into the tent...when they came near' teaches that service requires preparation. The Hebrew בְּבֹאָם (bevo'am, when they enter) and בְּקָרְבָתָם (beqorvat am, when they draw near) indicate movement toward sacred space demands cleansing. This prefigures New Testament calls to 'draw near' with cleansed hearts (Hebrews 10:22; James 4:8). The washing's repetition (not one-time) teaches ongoing sanctification. Christ's washing disciples' feet (John 13:4-10) illustrated this—justified saints need daily cleansing from sin's defilement.
Historical Context
The washing's requirement at both entering the tent and approaching the altar meant priests washed multiple times daily during active service. This frequent cleansing emphasized that even consecrated ministers repeatedly contract spiritual defilement requiring renewal—holiness is maintained, not merely attained.
Reflection
- How does washing before service teach that ministry requires spiritual preparation, not casual approach?
- What does Christ washing disciples' feet reveal about His ongoing sanctifying work in justified believers?
Word Studies
- Altar: מִזְבֵּחַ (Mizbeach) H4196 - Altar, place of sacrifice