Aaron Blesses the People of Israel (Lev 9.22)

Aaron lifted his hands toward the people and blessed them…

Background

Leviticus contains instructions about the physical practices of community life, priesthood, and sacrifices—not doctrines or spiritual practices. Though prayer was part of all sacrifices and many other areas of life, we learn about those when we read of the Israelites and priest doing these things, not in the instructions about them. 

The lone prayer is found in a section that contains a narrative (chapters 8–10). The first part of this passage describes the ordination of Aaron and his sons as priests and the dedication of the Tabernacle and its altar. The second section describes the celebration on the eighth day: this is the story of the first time these practices were performed. First, the Tabernacle was cleansed with an offering. Then, the first sacrifice is offered as the beginning of the sacrificial tradition. Finally, the people shared a “sacred meal” in the presence of God.

The prayer appears in the second section after Aaron has offered a sacrifice for himself and a second sacrifice for all the people. The story describes in detail how Aaron performed each part of the selection with care: slaughter, sacrifice, and the “cleaning up” activities—all stressing the importance of doing everything exactly as God commanded. After Aaron offers the sacrifice for the people, he lifts part of the sacrifice above his head and, holding it out to the people, he pronounces a blessing upon them. Fire comes from the altar and consumes the sacrifice, and the people fall to their knees and worship God.

Meaning

What can we learn about prayer from this passage? There are a few issues connected to the prayer-blessing: the importance of sacrifice, of doing things as God commands, and the importance of the people to God. Perhaps most important is never to take prayer lightly. In this story, prayer is connected to the most powerful acts of God as they relate to humans: forgiveness, atonement, blessing, and praise. Prayer is not just talking to yourself or talking out loud; it is not just meditation; it is not just a religious act. It is taking part in the very spirit of God. When you pray, especially when you offer a blessing on others, you are speaking for God! You stand as God’s representative and bless what He blesses. You are His ambassador with your words. That is a task that should never be taken without serious thought.

Application

This week, as you pray, find a way to remind yourself of this powerful act you do. No matter how mundane and straightforward your prayer might seem, you are partaking in a way no less than Aaron himself. You speak with God Almighty and for God Almighty. You can even pray that you will remember that aspect of prayer—ask God to help you remember it—and thank him for allowing you to be His spokesperson.

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