Commentary on Leviticus 16:32

Verse Text: "And the priest, whom he shall anoint, and whom he shall consecrate to minister in the priest's office in his father's stead, shall make the atonement, and shall put on the linen clothes, even the holy garments."

1. Contextual Background

Leviticus 16 describes the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), a crucial event in the Israelite calendar, where the high priest performed rites to atone for the sins of the people. This chapter underscores the themes of holiness, sacrifice, and the mediatorial role of the priesthood in approaching God.

2. The Role of the Priest

The verse highlights the essential duty of the priest, an anointed and consecrated individual, to perform atonement. This was not merely a ritual act but a profound responsibility that entailed representing the people before God. Commentators emphasize:

• Matthew Henry: “The priest’s anointing signifies the divine choice and enabling for the sacred task at hand, reflecting the believer’s calling to serve and intercede.”
• Albert Barnes: “The act of anointing is significant of purity and separation for divine purposes, aligning with Christ's priestly mediatorial work.”
• Adam Clarke: “The priest's role is fundamentally sacrificial, where each act of atonement points toward ultimate redemption in Christ.”

3. Atonement and Its Significance

Atonement in the Old Testament context revolves around the sacrificial system, highlighting the seriousness of sin and the need for reconciliation with God.

• Matthew Henry: “Atonement is the means by which sin is covered; it requires the shedding of blood, indicating the gravity of the need for redemption.”
• Albert Barnes: “Christ fulfilled the atonement requirements of the Law, being the perfect sacrifice and our High Priest.”
• Adam Clarke: “The continuous act of atonement performed by the priest foreshadows the finality of Christ’s redemptive work on the cross.”

4. Holy Garments and Righteousness

The linen clothes mentioned in the verse symbolize purity and righteousness, essential attributes of the priest when entering the Holy of Holies. This attire is significant in teaching about the holiness of God and the need for the priest to be unblemished.

• Matthew Henry: “The wearing of holy garments signifies the necessity of spiritual cleanliness before approaching God.”
• Albert Barnes: “Linen represents moral purity, an appropriate metaphor for the priest’s character and the life of every believer.”
• Adam Clarke: “The priest’s clothing set him apart to convey God's holiness; believers are also called to clothe themselves with righteousness.”

5. Typology of Christ

The priesthood in Leviticus serves as a foreshadowing of Christ’s ultimate High Priesthood. Each aspect presented in this verse can be seen as a type that leads to a deeper understanding of Jesus’ sacrificial role.

• Matthew Henry: “The anointed priest is a type of Christ, who, through His suffering, brings about a greater atonement.”
• Albert Barnes: “Just as the priest was anointed, so Christ was consecrated by the Holy Spirit for His sacrificial work.”
• Adam Clarke: “The ceremonial duties of the priest anticipate the perfection of Christ’s work, which provides eternal validity to our redemption.”

6. Application for Today

The principles found in Leviticus 16:32 are highly applicable to contemporary faith practices. Understanding the heart of atonement and the sacredness of Christ’s role encourages a life of holiness and dedication.

• Matthew Henry: “Modern believers must ever remember the significance of living a consecrated life, reflecting the holiness of our calling.”
• Albert Barnes: “The direct application of this text calls believers to an understanding of their identity as a royal priesthood, called to intercede and reflect Christ’s righteousness.”
• Adam Clarke: “As we approach God, we must wear the garments of faith and righteousness, inwardly cleansed by the atoning grace of Christ.”

7. Conclusion

Leviticus 16:32 not only reveals the duties of the priest but also encapsulates the core themes of sacrifice and atonement that resonate throughout the Scriptures. By drawing insights from classic commentaries, we can appreciate the depth of this passage and its profound implications for our faith.