Bible Dictionaries
Laver

Holman Bible Dictionary

A large basin or bowl used in purification rites. The Old Testament describes the lavers used in the tabernacle and in Solomon's Temple. The bronze laver of the tabernacle was constructed from metal mirrors provided by the women who ministered at the tabernacle entrance (Exodus 38:8 ). The priests used the laver for washing their hands and feet before priestly service (Exodus 30:18; Exodus 40:30-31 ). Levites also used water from this laver to purify themselves (Numbers 8:7 ). Solomon's Temple employed a large laver, the molten sea (1 Kings 7:23-26; 2 Chronicles 4:2-5 ), and ten smaller lavers (1 Kings 7:38-39; 2 Chronicles 4:6 ). The priests washed in the molten sea. The ten lavers were used for washing sacrifices (1 Chronicles 4:6 ). See Sea, Molten; Temple.