THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
The gathering of the priestly lineage, representing all and on behalf of everyone as a sacred offering to God, is signified by the laying on of hands by the children of Israel. It is stated, “Let the children of Israel lay their hands on the Levites.” Just as the Levites placed their hands upon the heads of the sacrificial offerings that were slaughtered for them, symbolizing Christ—not to provide a blessing, but to signify the act of presenting to God the One who bears our transgressions and works holiness on our behalf, nailing to His cross "the handwriting of requirements that was against us" (Col. 2:14).
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In a similar manner, one understands the laying on of hands by the people upon the Levites; this act illustrates that they were presenting the Levites to God in their role as priests, chosen and sanctified. In the past, this laying on of hands was performed; however, now that circumstances have improved, the congregation, through their own will, endorses those called by Christ to the priesthood, affirmatively voicing, “Worthy!” This is practiced in the churches today, just as the ancients did when laying hands on the Levites in the sacred and divine tabernacle. It is clear, then, that if ordination occurs outside of the church or without the presence of the people, it would conflict with God’s will and contradict sacred traditions.