Exodus 28–29: The Priests in the Temple

Old Testament Seminary Student Study Guide, (2002), 53–54

Exodus 28–29 contains the Lord’s revelations to Moses concerning the priests who worked in the tabernacle performing ordinances for the people. These revelations include instructions on how to set apart and consecrate the priests, what they were to wear, and what some of their duties were. As with the tabernacle, considering the symbolism of what was done can teach us more about the gospel and what the Lord expects of us.

Understanding the Scriptures

Exodus 28

Minister unto (v. 1)Serve 
Bear (vv. 29–30)Carry 
For a memorial (v. 29)To remember 

Exodus 29

Perpetual statute (v. 9)Everlasting ordinance 
Savour (vv. 18, 41)Smell 
Mingled (v. 40)Mixed 
Hin (v. 40)About six liters 
Sanctified, sanctify (vv. 43–44)Make holy 
diagram(click to view larger)

Studying the Scriptures

Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Exodus 28–29.

Activity A iconHow Were They Called?

Read Exodus 28:1; Hebrews 5:1, 4; and Articles of Faith 1:5. Explain how Aaron and his sons were called to be priests and how the way they were called is a pattern for all who receive a priesthood office in the Church.

Activity B iconOutline a Sacred Ceremony

Exodus 29:1–21 describes how a priest was consecrated, or set apart, to work in the tabernacle. Outline the ceremony by describing what happened according to the following verses:

  1. •

    First event (see v. 4)

  2. •

    Second event (see vv. 5–6)

  3. •

    Third event (see v. 7)

  4. •

    Fourth event (see vv. 10–14)

  5. •

    Fifth event (see vv. 15–18)

  6. •

    Sixth event (see vv. 19–21)

Activity C iconWhat Is the Symbolism?

Aaron and his sons had their ears, hands, and feet consecrated with blood. We know that blood symbolized the Atonement of Christ, which has the power to make us holy. What do ears, hands, and feet symbolize, and what does that symbolism teach us about preparing to attend to temple duties?