Blood played a vital role in priestly ordination because it symbolized atonement, purification, and consecration for those who would serve in God’s presence. Even though Aaron and his sons were chosen by God, they were still sinners and needed cleansing through the shedding of blood before beginning their priestly duties.
Exodus 29:20 describes the ceremony:
“Then you shall kill the ram, and take some of its blood and put it on the tip of the right ear of Aaron and on the tip of the right ear of his sons, on the thumb of their right hand, and on the big toe of their right foot, and sprinkle the blood all around on the altar.”
The application of blood to the ear, hand, and foot symbolized total consecration: their hearing, actions, and walk were now dedicated to God’s service. The altar was also sprinkled with blood, showing that their ministry depended entirely on atonement.
Blood was also applied to the garments and sprinkled on the priests along with anointing oil (Exodus 29:21), emphasizing that holiness came from God’s provision, not human effort. Without this cleansing, the priests could not enter the tabernacle or offer sacrifices on behalf of the people.
This ritual points forward to Christ, whose blood purifies and consecrates believers for service. Hebrews 9:22 declares:
“Without shedding of blood there is no remission.”
Unlike the repeated sacrifices of the old covenant, Jesus offered His blood once for all, making us a royal priesthood (Hebrews 10:19–22; 1 Peter 2:9). The role of blood in priestly ordination teaches that access to God and effective service require cleansing through a perfect sacrifice, a truth fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
