What does Exodus 29:39 mean?
ESV: One lamb you shall offer in the morning, and the other lamb you shall offer at twilight.
NIV: Offer one in the morning and the other at twilight.
NASB: The one lamb you shall offer in the morning, and the other lamb you shall offer at twilight;
CSB: In the morning offer one lamb, and at twilight offer the other lamb.
NLT: one in the morning and the other in the evening.
KJV: The one lamb thou shalt offer in the morning; and the other lamb thou shalt offer at even:
NKJV: One lamb you shall offer in the morning, and the other lamb you shall offer at twilight.
Verse Commentary:
Verse Context:
Exodus 29:29–46 records the final details for Moses to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests (Exodus 40:13–15; Numbers 3:10). The priests don their holy garments and eat the various breads and meats prepared for this ritual. God also establishes a twice-daily sacrifice of lambs. These practices are meant to remind Israel of their special relationship with the Lord.
Chapter Summary:
God will establish Aaron as the first high priest. Aaron's sons will begin serving in a hereditary priesthood (Exodus 40:13–15; Numbers 3:10). In this passage, the Lord gives Moses detailed instructions about how to consecrate this new priesthood. The ritual involves several sacrificial animals and the application of blood. These physical rituals and objects remind Israel of God's loving works on their behalf.
Chapter Context:
The last several chapters gave detailed instructions for various components of the tabernacle (Exodus 25—27). Chapter 28 explained the intricate uniform of Israel's high priest. It also sets requirements for garments worn by the rest of the priesthood. In this chapter, God explains how Moses is to consecrate Aaron as the first high priest, and Aaron's sons as the first generation of the general priesthood. Final details about the construction of the holy items will follow (Exodus 30—31).
Book Summary:
The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.
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