Exodus 30:20Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

If you refrain from praying with unwashed hands, it is even more important to avoid tainting them with sins. If you are concerned about minor issues, how much more should you be aware of the significant ones. While praying with unclean hands is not the gravest fault, extending hands stained by numerous sins invites the severe anger of God.

In Leviticus 1:9, there is an instruction regarding the washing of specific portions of the sacrifice, while verses 19 and 29 of the same chapter mandate that the priests cleanse their hands and feet prior to each holy duty. Furthermore, Leviticus 16:4 states that on the day of atonement, before entering the Most Holy Place, the high priest was required to wash his entire body and don sacred white garments. The principle of physical purity, which influences one’s actions and relates to moral integrity, stands as a law of education applicable not only to Israel but to all humanity.