“Then he brought Aaron and his sons forward and washed them with water. He put the tunic on Aaron, tied the sash around him, clothed him with the robe, and put the ephod on him. He also fastened the ephod with a waistband, putting it on him. He then placed the breastpiece on him and put the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece. Then he placed the turban on Aaron’s head and set the gold plate, the sacred emblem, on the front of the turban, as the Lord commanded Moses.” – Exodus 39:1-31
The Significance of Blood in the Old Testament
As we read through the Old Testament, we notice that blood holds a deep significance in various rituals and ceremonies. Blood symbolizes life and purification. In the sacrificial system, it was essential because it served as a means of atonement for sin. When we refer to blood on the right ear, it brings us back to instances in which blood was used for consecration and sanctification. This act would establish a connection between the individual and God, highlighting the importance of our communication and relationship with Him. By understanding the role of blood, we get a glimpse of God’s desire for us to be set apart as His own, showing that we are precious in His sight.
Exodus 24:8
“Moses then took the blood, sprinkled it on the people and said, “This is the blood of the covenant that the Lord has made with you in accordance with all these words.” – Exodus 24:8
Hebrews 9:22
“In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” – Hebrews 9:22
Leviticus 17:11
“For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atonement for one’s life.” – Leviticus 17:11
Leviticus 8:23
“Moses slaughtered the ram and took some of its blood and put it on the lobe of Aaron’s right ear, on the thumb of his right hand and on the big toe of his right foot.” – Leviticus 8:23
Revelation 1:5
“And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood.” – Revelation 1:5
The Right Ear and Our Spiritual Hearing
When we consider blood on the right ear, we are invited to reflect on our ability to hear God’s voice in our lives. The right ear symbolizes our spiritual hearing, which is fundamental to our relationship with God. Listening to His guidance allows us to walk in His ways and follow His calling. Just as Aaron was consecrated with blood on his right ear, we are called to open our ears to God’s messages. As we think about our own spiritual lives, we should ask ourselves if we are truly listening and being attentive to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
Psalm 85:8
“I will listen to what God the Lord says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants. But let them not turn to folly.” – Psalm 85:8
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
Romans 10:17
“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” – Romans 10:17
Isaiah 50:4
“The Sovereign Lord has given me a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed.” – Isaiah 50:4
Proverbs 2:2
“Turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding.” – Proverbs 2:2
Consecration and Being Set Apart
The act of placing blood on the right ear signifies the act of consecration where individuals are set apart for God’s service. In our lives, we are called to be sanctified and dedicated to God, which means aligning ourselves with His will and purpose. This act of consecration not only shows our commitment to God but also reflects our desire to live lives that please Him. When we allow God to consecrate us, we are announcing to the world that we belong to Him and are ready to serve in obedience to His calling.
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
Jeremiah 1:5
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” – Jeremiah 1:5
Galatians 2:20
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” – Galatians 2:20
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Obedience to God’s Commands
As we recognize the significance of blood on the right ear, we are also reminded of our call to be obedient to God’s commands. From the times of Moses and Aaron to our present day, obedience has always been a critical aspect of walking with God. Hearing God’s Word must lead us to action as we follow His teachings and guidance. Our willingness to obey what the Lord commands allows us to experience His blessings and will for our lives. When we get our spiritual ears attuned to God’s whispers, we can confidently step forward in faith and in accordance with His will.
Deuteronomy 5:33
“Walk in all the way that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.” – Deuteronomy 5:33
John 14:15
“If you love me, keep my commands.” – John 14:15
Matthew 7:21
“Not everyone who says to me, “Lord, Lord,” will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” – Matthew 7:21
1 Samuel 15:22
“But Samuel replied: “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.” – 1 Samuel 15:22
Colossians 3:22
“Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord.” – Colossians 3:22
Redemption Through the Blood of Christ
The theme of blood throughout the Bible ultimately points toward our redemption through Jesus Christ. The blood that was shed on the cross has freed us from the bondage of sin and grants us access to a relationship with God. In understanding the blood placed on Aaron’s ear, we can recognize how this symbolizes the ultimate sacrifice made by Christ. We are continually invited into that relationship and redemption through His blood, which covers our sins and calls us to walk in newness of life. This gift brings us the hope that we can live according to His purposes and reflect His glory.
Ephesians 1:7
“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” – Ephesians 1:7
Colossians 1:14
“In whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” – Colossians 1:14
1 John 1:7
“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” – 1 John 1:7
Hebrews 10:19
“Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus.” – Hebrews 10:19
Romans 5:9
“Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!” – Romans 5:9
Living Under the Blood of Christ
Finally, we reflect on what it means to live under the blood of Christ. Jesus’s sacrifice was once and for all, allowing us to live in freedom rather than fear. When we recognize the significance of the blood shed on the cross, we come to understand our identity as children of God. This remarkable gift invites us to walk in faith, empowered by the Holy Spirit. Living beneath this blood means we can confidently showcase God’s love, grace, and mercy to those around us. Just as the blood consecrated Aaron for God’s service, we are also called to serve others and proclaim His love, transforming those we encounter in our daily lives.
1 Peter 1:18-19
“For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” – 1 Peter 1:18-19
Galatians 3:13
“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.” – Galatians 3:13
Hebrews 13:12
“And so Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood.” – Hebrews 13:12
1 Corinthians 6:20
“You were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” – 1 Corinthians 6:20
Revelation 12:11
“They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.” – Revelation 12:11
Final Thoughts
As we explore the topic of blood on the right ear, we are reminded of the significance of our spiritual hearing, obedience, and how it sets us apart for God’s service. The act of consecration, marked with blood, symbolizes our commitment to listen and heed God’s voice in our lives. We are truly blessed to understand that Jesus’s blood redeems us and empowers us to live for Him. Living under the grace and mercy exemplified through Christ’s sacrifice allows us to reflect His love and share that with others.
Let us strive to open our ears to God’s messages, ensuring our actions align with His will. As we ponder on the transformative power of His blood, we draw closer to our purpose as followers of Christ. Our commitment to service and obedience is not just a calling but an honor, allowing us to be a light to those around us.
If you’re interested in further exploring related topics, check out our articles on marking your body and priests. These readings offer more insights into the concept of holiness and service in God’s kingdom.