Exodus 30:21Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Refrain from approaching prayer with unclean hands, for even more so, avoid tainting them with sin. If you are concerned about minor issues, take heed of the more significant ones. While it may not be inappropriate to pray with dirty hands, extending hands stained by numerous transgressions brings upon oneself the severe displeasure of God.

In Leviticus, it is noted that certain parts of the offering were to be washed. The text also indicates that the priests had a duty to cleanse their hands and feet prior to performing any sacred rites. Moreover, on the Day of Atonement, it was required for the high priest to fully immerse himself and don special white vestments before entering the Most Holy Place. The principles of physical purity, grounded in the mindfulness of one’s actions, also relate to moral integrity; these standards were part of the educational framework not just for Israel, but for all humanity.