XXIX.
THE FORM OF CONSECRATION FOR THE PRIESTS.
(1) This is the thing that thou shalt do unto them to hallow them. — The consecration of the priests had been commanded in the preceding chapter (Exodus 28:41). The method of it is now laid down. It consists of five things : — (1) Ablution (Exodus 29:4); (2) Investiture (Exodus 29:5-9); (3) Chrism, or anointing (Exodus 29:7); (4) Sacrifice (Exodus 29:10-23); and (5) Filling the hand (Exodus 29:24). All of these were symbolical acts, typical of things spiritual — ablution, of the putting away of impurity; investiture, of being clothed with holiness; unction, of the giving of Divine grace, &c.; the entire consecration forming an acted parable, very suggestive and full of instruction to such as understood its meaning.
Take one young bullock. — The first thing to be done was to prepare the victims which would be needed, and to have them ready against the time when they would be required for sacrifice.
Without blemish. — Heb., perfect (See Note 1 on Exodus 12:5.)