Exodus 28 The Tabernacle and the Priestly Garments

1 The Priestly Garments
“Have Aaron your brother brought to you from among the Israelites, along with his sons Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, so they may serve me as priests.

2 Make sacred garments for your brother Aaron, to give him dignity and honor.

3 Tell all the skilled men to whom I have given wisdom in such matters that they are to make garments for Aaron, for his consecration, so he may serve me as priest.

4 These are the garments they are to make: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a woven tunic, a turban and a sash. They are to make these sacred garments for your brother Aaron and his sons, so they may serve me as priests.

5 Have them use gold, and blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and fine linen.

6 The Ephod
“Make the ephod of gold, and of blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and of finely twisted linen—the work of a skilled craftsman.

7 It is to have two shoulder pieces attached to two of its corners, so it can be fastened.

8 Its skillfully woven waistband is to be like it—of one piece with the ephod and made with gold, and with blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and with finely twisted linen.

9 “Take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel

10 in the order of their birth—six names on one stone and the remaining six on the other.

11 Engrave the names of the sons of Israel on the two stones the way a gem cutter engraves a seal. Then mount the stones in gold filigree settings

12 and fasten them on the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones for the sons of Israel. Aaron is to bear the names on his shoulders as a memorial before the Lord.

13 Make gold filigree settings

14 and two braided chains of pure gold, like a rope, and attach the chains to the settings.

15 The Breastpiece
“Fashion a breastpiece for making decisions—the work of a skilled craftsman. Make it like the ephod: of gold, and of blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and of finely twisted linen.

16 It is to be square—a span long and a span wide—and folded double.

17 Then mount four rows of precious stones on it. In the first row there shall be a ruby, a topaz and a beryl;

18 in the second row a turquoise, a sapphire and an emerald;

19 in the third row a jacinth, an agate and an amethyst;

20 in the fourth row a chrysolite, an onyx and a jasper. Mount them in gold filigree settings.

21 There are to be twelve stones, one for each of the names of the sons of Israel, each engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes.

22 “For the breastpiece make braided chains of pure gold, like a rope.

23 Make two gold rings for it and fasten them to two corners of the breastpiece.

24 Fasten the two gold chains to the rings at the corners of the breastpiece,

25 and the other ends of the chains to the two settings, attaching them to the shoulder pieces of the ephod at the front.

26 Make two gold rings and attach them to the other two corners of the breastpiece on the inside edge next to the ephod.

27 Make two more gold rings and attach them to the bottom of the shoulder pieces on the front of the ephod, close to the seam just above the waistband of the ephod.

28 The rings of the breastpiece are to be tied to the rings of the ephod with blue cord, connecting it to the waistband, so that the breastpiece will not swing out from the ephod.

29 “Whenever Aaron enters the Holy Place, he will bear the names of the sons of Israel over his heart on the breastpiece of decision as a continuing memorial before the Lord.

30 Also put the Urim and the Thummim in the breastpiece, so they may be over Aaron’s heart whenever he enters the presence of the Lord. Thus Aaron will always bear the means of making decisions for the Israelites over his heart before the Lord.

31 Other Priestly Garments
“Make the robe of the ephod entirely of blue cloth,

32 with an opening for the head in its center. There shall be a woven edge like a collar around this opening, so that it will not tear.

33 Make pomegranates of blue, purple and scarlet yarn around the hem of the robe, with gold bells between them.

34 The gold bells and the pomegranates are to alternate around the hem of the robe.

35 Aaron must wear it when he ministers. The sound of the bells will be heard when he enters the Holy Place before the Lord and when he comes out, so that he will not die.

36 “Make a plate of pure gold and engrave on it as on a seal: holy to the Lord.

37 Fasten a blue cord to it to attach it to the turban; it is to be on the front of the turban.

38 It will be on Aaron’s forehead, and he will bear the guilt involved in the sacred gifts the Israelites consecrate, whatever their gifts may be. It will be on Aaron’s forehead continually so that they will be acceptable to the Lord.

39 “Weave the tunic of fine linen and make the turban of fine linen. The sash is to be the work of an embroiderer.

40 Make tunics, sashes and headbands for Aaron’s sons, to give them dignity and honor.

41 After you put these clothes on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint and ordain them. Consecrate them so they may serve me as priests.

42 “Make linen undergarments as a covering for the body, reaching from the waist to the thigh.

43 Aaron and his sons must wear them whenever they enter the Tent of Meeting or approach the altar to minister in the Holy Place, so that they will not incur guilt and die.
“This is to be a lasting ordinance for Aaron and his descendants.

Previous Chapter Exodus 27 Next Chapter Exodus 29

Analysis of Exodus Chapter 28

Exodus 28 is a chapter that delves deeply into the elaborate details concerning the priestly garments meant for Aaron and his sons, who would serve as priests for the Israelites. These vestments are not just mere clothing; they bear significant religious, cultural, and symbolic weight. As we analyze this chapter, we should appreciate not just the aesthetic and functional aspects of these garments but also their theological implications.

A Divine Command: The Priestly Office

The chapter opens with God commanding Moses to set apart Aaron and his sons (Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar) for the priesthood. This act of separation and sanctification is vital. The priesthood is not something that men could claim for themselves; it is a divinely appointed role with specific requirements and duties.

“And take thou unto thee Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him, from among the children of Israel, that he may minister unto me in the priest’s office.” (Exodus 28:1)

This first verse emphasizes the importance of consecration and sanctification for the service of God. Aaron and his sons are chosen from among the people, indicating both the inclusivity of representation and the exclusivity of sacred service. God emphasizes that their primary duty is to minister unto Him, reinforcing the idea that the priesthood is about divine service above all.

The Holy Garments: Symbolism and Function

Verses 2 to 5 focus on the purpose and the artisans who will create these garments.

“And thou shalt make holy garments for Aaron thy brother for glory and for beauty.” (Exodus 28:2)

Here, the terms “glory” and “beauty” signify that the priestly garments are designed to reflect the holiness and splendor of God. The meticulous craftsmanship and the materials used – gold, blue, purple, scarlet yarn, and fine linen – emphasize the sacredness and divine purpose of the priesthood. These materials are the finest and most precious, symbolizing purity, royalty, and divine significance.

Verses 3 and 4 specify that skilled artisans filled with the spirit of wisdom are to craft these garments, indicating that divine inspiration is essential even in artistic endeavors related to worship.

“And these are the garments which they shall make; a breastplate, and an ephod, and a robe, and a broidered coat, a mitre, and a girdle.” (Exodus 28:4)

This verse lists the six specific pieces that make up the full attire of the high priest, each having its functional and symbolic meaning, which we’ll explore in more depth below.

The Ephod

The ephod is described in verses 6-14. It is perhaps the most distinguishing part of the high priest’s garments, akin to an apron-like garment worn over other clothing.

“It shall have the two shoulder pieces thereof joined at the two edges thereof; and so it shall be joined together.” (Exodus 28:7)

On the shoulders of the ephod, two onyx stones are set, each engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel (verses 9-12). This inclusion signifies that the high priest represents all the people of Israel before God. The act of engraving the names implies permanence and a continual reminder of the covenant between God and the Israelites.

Aaron, bearing these names, symbolizes the act of intercession – carrying the weight of Israel’s spiritual welfare on his shoulders as he ministers before the Lord.

The Breastplate of Judgment

Next, the breastplate, also known as the Breastplate of Judgment, is described in verses 15-30. This piece is particularly intricate, signifying its importance.

“And thou shalt set in it settings of stones, even four rows of stones… and the stones shall be with the names of the children of Israel, twelve, according to their names.” (Exodus 28:17, 21)

The breastplate features twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes. This item further solidifies the idea that the high priest acts as a representative before God. These stones are not chosen arbitrarily; they reflect divine selection and each tribe’s unique identity and value before God. Their placement over the priest’s heart is profoundly symbolic, indicating that the priest carries the people in his heart as he performs his sacred duties.

Verses 29 and 30 introduce the Urim and Thummim, placed within the breastplate. These enigmatic objects are used for discerning God’s will in critical decisions, symbolizing divine guidance and truth. The notion of judgment here signifies not only legal judgment but the execution of divine justice and guidance for the community.

The Robe of the Ephod

In verses 31-35, the robe of the ephod is described in vibrant blue with pomegranates and golden bells along the hem.

“And it shall be upon Aaron to minister: and his sound shall be heard when he goeth in unto the holy place before the LORD, and when he cometh out, that he die not.” (Exodus 28:35)

The inclusion of golden bells serves both a practical and esoteric function. Practically, it announces Aaron’s presence in the Holy Place, signifying reverence and caution when approaching God’s holiness. Symbolically, the bells may represent the perpetual proclamation of God’s presence among His people, and they reinforce the life-and-death seriousness of Aaron’s role.

The Turban (Miter) and its Inscription

The turban and its golden plate are discussed in verses 36-39. The plate reads “HOLINESS TO THE LORD,” inscribed upon it.

“And it shall be always upon his forehead, that they may be accepted before the LORD.” (Exodus 28:38)

This inscription signifies that Aaron—and by extension, the priesthood—must embody holiness. By wearing this on his forehead, Aaron constantly bears a visible reminder of his sanctified status and duty. It is a declaration of God’s holiness and the prerequisite purity necessary for service to Him.

The Girdle, Coat, and Breeches

Descriptions of the embroidered coat, sash (girdle), and linen breeches appear in verses 39-43.

“And they shall be upon Aaron, and upon his sons, when they come in unto the tabernacle of the congregation, or when they come near unto the altar to minister in the holy place.” (Exodus 28:43)

Every element of the priestly attire serves to sanctify and prepare the priests for their duties. The linen breeches, often overlooked, emphasize modesty and purity, important virtues in the service of God.

The Function of the Priestly Garments: Intercession and Sanctification

All these elaborate instructions culminate in a twofold purpose: intercession and sanctification. Aaron and his sons, adorned in these holy garments, stand as intermediaries between God and Israel. Their attire, from the names inscribed on the stones to the declaration of holiness on the turban, is a visual and physical manifestation of their spiritual responsibilities.

The garments themselves sanctify the priests—set them apart as holy. By donning these garments, the priests are visually and spiritually equipped to execute their sacred duties, ensuring that the people of Israel remain in good standing before God.

Relevance for Contemporary Faith

While the specifics of the priestly garments may seem distant or overly elaborate to contemporary readers, the underlying principles of sanctity, representation, and intercession remain crucial in modern faith contexts. Just as Aaron and his sons were called to a life of distinctive, holy service, believers today can find inspiration in the commitment and sanctity required of them.

The detailed nature of these instructions also highlights the meticulous care and respect due to all acts of worship. Whether through symbols, rituals, or attire, there is an enduring principle that approaching God requires preparation, reverence, and a heart dedicated to His service.

Conclusion

Exodus 28 significantly contributes to our understanding of worship, sacred service, and the priestly intermediary role. Through the carefully designed garments, the text illustrates a broader theology of beauty, holiness, and divine representation. These elements aren’t just relics of ancient Israelite religion but timeless truths reflecting the ongoing relationship between humanity and the divine.

The chapter asks modern readers not only to appreciate the historical and cultural wealth of these descriptions but also to consider how they might embody the principles of holiness, representation, and dedicated service in their own spiritual lives.

Understanding the Key Messages in Exodus 28: Insights and Explanation

Chapter 28 of Exodus describes the instructions given by God to Moses on how to make the priestly garments, including the ephod, breastpiece, robe, tunic, turban, and sash for Aaron and his sons. It emphasizes the importance of these garments and their symbolism in representing the priesthood. The chapter also outlines specific materials and designs to be used. Overall, it highlights the significance of the tabernacle and the role of the priests in carrying out their duties.

Notes

The intricate details provided in this chapter demonstrate the significance and holiness associated with the priesthood and the tabernacle. The descriptions of the garments serve to distinguish the priests and underline their role as mediators between God and the people of Israel.