King James Version
What Does Exodus 29:31 Mean?
“And thou shalt take the ram of the consecration, and seethe his flesh in the holy place.”
Exodus 29:31 · KJV
Context
29
And the holy garments of Aaron shall be his sons' after him, to be anointed therein, and to be consecrated in them.
30
And that son that is priest in his stead shall put them on seven days, when he cometh into the tabernacle of the congregation to minister in the holy place. that son: Heb. he of his sons
31
And thou shalt take the ram of the consecration, and seethe his flesh in the holy place.
32
And Aaron and his sons shall eat the flesh of the ram, and the bread that is in the basket, by the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.
33
And they shall eat those things wherewith the atonement was made, to consecrate and to sanctify them: but a stranger shall not eat thereof, because they are holy.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe seven-day consecration period represents complete, perfect preparation (seven = completeness). Aaron and his sons must remain at the tabernacle entrance throughout, unable to leave, fully devoted to consecration. This prefigures how believers, once called to Christ, must remain in Him continually—not part-time but full devotion. The daily repetition of sacrifices emphasizes that consecration requires ongoing renewal, ultimately fulfilled in Christ's once-for-all sacrifice.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
The seven-day period required priests to remain at the tabernacle entrance day and night, repeating sacrificial rituals daily. This intensive preparation demonstrated that priestly service demanded total commitment and thorough consecration.
Reflection Questions
- How does remaining 'at the tabernacle entrance' picture abiding in Christ?
- What does seven-day consecration teach about the completeness of preparation God requires?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 9 wordsוְאֵ֛ת1 of 9
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
אֵ֥יל2 of 9
“the ram”
H352properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically an oak or other strong tree
הַמִּלֻּאִ֖ים3 of 9
“of the consecration”
H4394a fulfilling (only in plural), i.e., (literally) a setting (of gems), or (technically) consecration (also concretely, a dedicatory sacrifice)
וּבִשַּׁלְתָּ֥5 of 9
“and seethe”
H1310properly, to boil up; hence, to be done in cooking; figuratively to ripen
אֶת6 of 9
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
בְּשָׂר֖וֹ7 of 9
“his flesh”
H1320flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man
בְּמָקֹ֥ם8 of 9
“place”
H4725properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
קָדֹֽשׁ׃9 of 9
“in the holy”
H6918sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) god (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Exodus 29:31 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Exodus 29:31 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge