During the Easter season, as well as during other times of the year, the priest will often walk down the central aisle to bless the people with holy water. Many priests will use a leafy branch, or what looks like a bunch of straw, to sprinkle the water.
While it may seem like a practical choice, it is an option that has deep biblical symbolism.
First of all, this sprinkling rite is meant to recall our baptism, as the priest explains during the blessing of holy water.
Secondly, the choice of a leafy branch or bunch of straw is meant to recall Psalm 51.
This Psalm is often sung during the sprinkling rite and asks God to cleanse us, making our souls "white as snow."
Furthermore, hyssop is also mentioned in the book of Exodus and further compounds this symbolism.
The symbolism is clear, as Jesus is the "Lamb of God" and it is through his blood that we are cleansed in the waters of baptism.
The priest is then recalling that hyssop of Exodus and the blood of the lamb that is now sprinkled upon us, to cleanse us of our sins.
Furthermore, the book of Numbers proscribes a sprinkling with water and hyssop to cleanse the unclean.
The next time you see a priest using a leafy branch to sprinkle the congregation, recognize the beautiful symbolism of this action and let God's grace flood into your heart.
