Old Testament
Exodus 40:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Anoint them just as you anointed their father, so they too can serve me as priests. This anointing will establish an everlasting priesthood for their descendants throughout every generation."
Compare translations
And thou shalt anoint them, as thou didst anoint their father, that they may minister unto me in the priest’s office: for their anointing shall surely be an everlasting priesthood throughout their generations.
What Exodus 40:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God instructs Moses to anoint Aaron's sons, just as Aaron was anointed. This act signifies their appointment as priests, allowing them to serve God in a special role. The anointing is not just a ritual; it establishes a lasting priesthood that will continue through generations. This means that the responsibilities and privileges of serving God will be passed down to their descendants. The emphasis on 'everlasting' highlights the importance of this role in maintaining a connection with God. It shows that God values continuity in worship and service. By anointing them, God is setting them apart for a sacred purpose, ensuring that their lineage will always have a place in His service. This passage reminds us of the significance of spiritual leadership and the commitment to serve God faithfully, not just for ourselves but for future generations as well. It encourages us to think about how our actions and faith can impact those who come after us, creating a legacy of devotion.
How to apply Exodus 40:15 to your life
Consider how your actions today can influence future generations. Just as the priests were anointed for service, think about how you can dedicate your life to a purpose that benefits others. Reflect on the legacy of faith you want to leave behind. Your commitment can inspire those who follow you to serve with passion and integrity. Make choices that honor this calling in your life and community.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Exodus 40:15
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Exodus 40:15
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 40:15 mean?
Exodus 40:15 means that God instructed Moses to anoint Aaron's sons as priests, just like Aaron was anointed. This act signifies their special role in serving God and establishes a lasting priesthood for their descendants.
What is the significance of anointing in Exodus 40:15?
The anointing in Exodus 40:15 signifies the appointment and dedication of Aaron's sons to serve as priests. It marks them as set apart for a sacred purpose, ensuring that their lineage continues to serve God throughout generations.
What does 'everlasting priesthood' refer to in Exodus 40:15?
The 'everlasting priesthood' in Exodus 40:15 refers to the continuous role of Aaron's descendants in serving God as priests. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a spiritual legacy that connects future generations to God.
How does Exodus 40:15 relate to spiritual leadership?
Exodus 40:15 highlights the importance of spiritual leadership by showing how the anointing of priests is meant to establish a lineage of service to God. It serves as a reminder that our actions can influence future leaders in faith.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.