And Moses, and Aaron and his sons, washed their hands, &c.— This shews, (what we have before observed on Exodus 29:26) that Moses now acted as priest: see ch. Exodus 30:19-21 and Levit. ch. 8. It is to be remembered, that, in this erection of the tabernacle, due regard was had to the time appointed for the several ceremonies; as will appear more fully from the next book.
REFLECTIONS.—Moses sets up the glorious fabric, and begins the service of the sanctuary. The candlestick is lighted up, the table covered, the incense smoking, the offering on the altar. Thus he taught the priests the method of their service: and himself, and Aaron and his sons, washed in the laver: for they who minister before a holy God, must purge themselves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit; and even in our most holy duties, whenever we would approach God, we must first wash in the open fountain of a Saviour's blood, without which we never can draw near with acceptance to him.