King James Version

What Does Exodus 40:11 Mean?

Exodus 40:11 in the King James Version says “And thou shalt anoint the laver and his foot, and sanctify it.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 40 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And thou shalt anoint the laver and his foot, and sanctify it.”

Exodus 40:11 · KJV

Context

9

And thou shalt take the anointing oil, and anoint the tabernacle, and all that is therein, and shalt hallow it, and all the vessels thereof: and it shall be holy.

10

And thou shalt anoint the altar of the burnt offering, and all his vessels, and sanctify the altar: and it shall be an altar most holy. most holy: Heb. holiness of holinesses

11

And thou shalt anoint the laver and his foot, and sanctify it.

12

And thou shalt bring Aaron and his sons unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and wash them with water.

13

And thou shalt put upon Aaron the holy garments, and anoint him, and sanctify him; that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.

Read Exodus 40 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Anointing the laver and its base sanctifies the instrument of cleansing. The laver, containing water for washing, represents the Word cleansing believers (Ephesians 5:26; John 15:3). Consecrating the water basin teaches that cleansing itself requires divine enablement—humans can't sanctify themselves. The anointing oil (Spirit) on the laver (Word) illustrates that Scripture's cleansing power comes from the Spirit's illumination (1 Corinthians 2:10-14). Christ, through Word and Spirit, sanctifies His church (Ephesians 5:26; Titus 3:5).

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Historical & Cultural Context

The laver's unique construction from bronze mirrors (Exodus 38:8) enabled priests to see themselves while washing—self-examination accompanied cleansing. The anointing oil sanctified this process, teaching that even spiritual hygiene requires divine consecration, not merely human effort.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the anointed laver teach that spiritual cleansing requires divine empowerment, not self-effort?
  2. What does the laver's dual symbolism (Word and Spirit) reveal about sanctification's means?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וּמָֽשַׁחְתָּ֥1 of 7

“And thou shalt anoint”

H4886

to rub with oil, i.e., to anoint; by implication, to consecrate; also to paint

אֶת2 of 7
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַכִּיֹּ֖ר3 of 7

“the laver”

H3595

properly, something round (as excavated or bored), i.e., a chafing-dish for coals or a caldron for cooking; hence (from similarity of form) a washbowl

וְאֶת4 of 7
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

כַּנּ֑וֹ5 of 7

“and his foot”

H3653

a stand, i.e., pedestal or station

וְקִדַּשְׁתָּ֖6 of 7

“and sanctify”

H6942

to be (causatively, make, pronounce or observe as) clean (ceremonially or morally)

אֹתֽוֹ׃7 of 7
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

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 40:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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