Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'seven days shalt thou consecrate them' mean in Exodus 29:35?
A: This verse refers to the seven-day inauguration process for Aharon (Aaron) and his sons as Kohanim (priests) in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). During these seven days, special sacrifices and rituals were performed to sanctify them for their holy service, as explained in Rashi and the Talmud (Zevachim 20a).
Q: Why was the consecration of the Kohanim seven days long?
A: The seven-day period symbolizes completeness and spiritual preparation, as the number seven often represents wholeness in the Torah (e.g., Shabbat, the seven days of creation). The Midrash (Tanchuma Tzav 14) teaches that this time was necessary to purify and elevate Aharon and his sons fully for their sacred duties.
Q: How does the consecration of the Kohanim apply to us today?
A: While we no longer have the Mishkan or Temple service, the Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 4:12) explains that the sanctity of the Kohanim remains. Today, Kohanim still have certain holy responsibilities, like blessing the congregation with Birkat Kohanim (the Priestly Blessing). The seven-day consecration teaches us the importance of proper preparation for sacred roles.
Q: What was the purpose of filling the Kohanim's hands ('t'maleh yadam') during consecration?
A: The phrase 'filling their hands' (Exodus 29:35) refers to transferring the priestly authority and responsibilities to Aharon and his sons. Rashi explains that it means appointing them to their service, just as one gives an object into another's hand to signify transfer of ownership. This act symbolized their readiness to perform the avodah (Divine service).
Q: Were all the Kohanim consecrated the same way?
A: The verse states 'thus shalt thou do to Aharon and to his sons,' showing that the basic consecration process was the same for all. However, the Talmud (Zevachim 101b) notes that Aharon had some unique rituals as Kohen Gadol (High Priest), such as special anointing oil. The seven-day inauguration, however, applied to all.
Context in the Torah
The verse (Shemot 29:35) appears in the context of the consecration of Aharon and his sons as Kohanim (priests) during the seven-day inauguration ceremony of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). This process involved sacrifices, anointing with oil, and donning special priestly garments.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that "seven days shalt thou consecrate them" refers to the Miluim (inauguration) process. He notes that this seven-day period parallels the seven days of creation, symbolizing that the service of the Kohanim brings completion to the world. Rashi further comments that the phrase "according to all which I have commanded thee" indicates that Moshe must perform every detail exactly as commanded, without deviation.
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchot Klei HaMikdash (4:13), Rambam rules that the seven-day consecration period establishes a precedent for all future priestly inaugurations. He emphasizes that the process must be completed in its entirety - one cannot serve as a Kohen until all seven days have passed.
Talmudic Insights
The Talmud (Zevachim 20a) derives from this verse that the priestly garments must be worn during all Temple service. The seven-day period teaches that the sanctity of the priesthood is not instantaneous but develops gradually through proper preparation.
Midrashic Interpretation
The Midrash Tanchuma (Tetzaveh 13) connects the seven days to:
This suggests that the priesthood represents a new creation, requires solemn preparation like mourning, and is as joyous as a wedding.
Kabbalistic Dimension
The Zohar (Tetzaveh 184a) explains that the seven days correspond to the seven lower Sefirot (divine emanations), through which the Kohanim draw down spiritual influence to the world. Each day activated a different aspect of divine service.
Halachic Implications
Based on this verse, Halacha establishes that: