◄ Exodus 28 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary Garments for the Priests The detailed description of these sacred garments serves as a reminder that our worship and service to God should not be taken lightly. Just as Aaron and his sons were called to a sacred duty and expected to adhere to God's precise instructions, so too are we called to honor God in our daily lives with careful attention and reverence. God's Command (Verses 1-5) God commands Moses to select Aaron and his sons to serve as priests. Skilled craftsmen, filled with divine wisdom, are instructed to create holy garments for Aaron to confer upon him glory and splendor. The Ephod (Verses 6-14) Detailed instructions are given for creating the ephod, a garment made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen. Two onyx stones, engraved with the names of the sons of Israel, are set in gold and attached to the ephod. The Breastpiece (Verses 15-29) Instructions for crafting a square breastpiece are outlined. This 'breastpiece of judgment' is adorned with twelve gemstones, each representing a tribe of Israel. It is also to hold the Urim and Thummim, over Aaron’s heart, as a constant reminder of the judgment of the Israelites before the Lord. The Robe (Verses 30-35) A blue robe with a woven collar is to be made, adorned with golden bells and pomegranates of yarn. The sound of the bells will be heard when Aaron enters or exits the sanctuary, ensuring his safety. The Turban (Verses 36-39) A golden plate engraved with "HOLY TO THE LORD" is to be attached to a fine linen turban. This plate is to rest on Aaron's forehead, allowing him to bear the iniquity of the holy things. Consecration and Ordination (Verses 40-43) Aaron and his sons are to be anointed, ordained, and consecrated in these garments. Linen undergarments are also to be made and worn for protection, ensuring they do not incur guilt and die. This chapter guides us through the intricate process of creating the holy garments for Aaron and his sons. It underscores the importance of exacting obedience to divine instructions, highlighting the deep symbology embedded within each component of the vestments. The chapter also elucidates the sacred responsibilities of the priests, serving as a bridge between the people and God. Teaching Points Divine Appointment and Holiness Exodus 28:1-2 states, And bring near to you your brother Aaron and his sons with him, from among the Israelites, to serve Me as priests—Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron’s sons. Make holy garments for your brother Aaron, to give him glory and splendor. The garments signify the divine appointment and the call to holiness for those who serve God. Symbolism of the Ephod and Breastpiece Verses 6-30 describe the ephod and breastpiece, adorned with precious stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. This symbolizes the priest's role in bearing the people before God and interceding on their behalf. The Urim and Thummim In verse 30, the Urim and Thummim are placed in the breastpiece of judgment. These mysterious objects were used to discern God's will, highlighting the importance of seeking divine guidance in leadership. The Robe and Its Bells Verses 31-35 describe the robe with bells of gold. The sound of the bells signified the priest's movement in the Holy Place, reminding us of the need for transparency and accountability in our spiritual walk. The Turban and Its Inscription Verse 36 instructs the making of a plate of pure gold with the inscription HOLY TO THE LORD. This signifies the dedication and consecration required of those who serve God. Practical Applications Pursue Holiness Just as the priests were set apart for service, we are called to live lives of holiness and dedication to God. Intercede for Others Like the high priest who bore the names of the tribes, we are called to intercede for others, bringing their needs before God in prayer. Seek God's Guidance The use of the Urim and Thummim reminds us to seek God's will in our decisions and to trust in His guidance. Live Transparently The bells on the robe encourage us to live lives of integrity and accountability, ensuring our actions align with our faith. Dedicate Yourself to God The inscription HOLY TO THE LORD challenges us to dedicate every aspect of our lives to God's service. People 1. Aaron Aaron is the brother of Moses and is appointed as the high priest. The chapter details the garments that are to be made for him, signifying his role as the spiritual leader and mediator between God and the Israelites. The Hebrew name "אַהֲרֹן" (Aharon) is used, which is consistent throughout the Old Testament. 2. Nadab Nadab is the eldest son of Aaron. He is mentioned as one of the sons who will serve as priests alongside Aaron. His name in Hebrew is "נָדָב" (Nadav), meaning "generous" or "noble." 3. Abihu Abihu is the second son of Aaron. Like his brother Nadab, he is also set apart for priestly duties. His Hebrew name "אֲבִיהוּא" (Avihu) means "he is my father." 4. Eleazar Eleazar is another son of Aaron, who will also serve as a priest. His name in Hebrew is "אֶלְעָזָר" (Elazar), meaning "God has helped." 5. Ithamar Ithamar is the youngest son of Aaron. He is included in the priestly lineage and duties. The Hebrew name "אִיתָמָר" (Itamar) means "island of palms." Places 1. Israel While not directly mentioned in the chapter, the context of Exodus 28 is the nation of Israel, as the instructions are given to Moses for the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests for the Israelites. The Hebrew root for Israel is "יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Yisra'el), meaning "God contends" or "one who struggles with God." 2. The Tabernacle Although not explicitly named in Exodus 28, the Tabernacle is the central place where the priestly garments will be used. The Tabernacle, or "מִשְׁכָּן" (Mishkan) in Hebrew, meaning "dwelling place," is the portable sanctuary where God dwells among His people. 3. The Holy Place The garments described in Exodus 28 are to be worn by the priests when they minister in the Holy Place. The Holy Place is part of the Tabernacle, where sacred rituals are performed. The Hebrew term is "קֹדֶשׁ" (Qodesh), meaning "holy" or "sacred." Events 1. Command to Make Holy Garments (Exodus 28:1-2) God instructs Moses to bring Aaron and his sons near to serve as priests. He commands the making of holy garments for Aaron, "for glory and for beauty." 2. Selection of Skilled Artisans (Exodus 28:3) God tells Moses to speak to all the skilled artisans whom He has filled with the spirit of wisdom to make Aaron's garments for consecration. 3. List of Garments (Exodus 28:4) The specific garments to be made are listed: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a woven tunic, a turban, and a sash. 4. The Ephod (Exodus 28:5-14) Detailed instructions are given for making the ephod using gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen. It includes shoulder pieces and two onyx stones engraved with the names of the sons of Israel. 5. The Breastpiece of Judgment (Exodus 28:15-30) Instructions for the breastpiece include its design, materials, and the setting of twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. The Urim and Thummim are to be placed in the breastpiece. 6. The Robe of the Ephod (Exodus 28:31-35) The robe is to be made entirely of blue cloth with an opening for the head and adorned with pomegranates and bells of gold around the hem. 7. The Turban and Plate (Exodus 28:36-38) A plate of pure gold engraved with "Holy to the LORD" is to be fastened to the front of the turban with a blue cord. 8. Other Garments for Aaron's Sons (Exodus 28:39-43) Tunics, sashes, and headbands are to be made for Aaron's sons for glory and beauty. Linen undergarments are also specified to cover their nakedness. Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. This verse connects the priestly calling in Exodus to the New Testament believers. Hebrews 4:14-16 These verses speak of Jesus as our great high priest, who intercedes for us, fulfilling the role foreshadowed by Aaron. Romans 12:1 Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. This verse emphasizes the call to holiness and dedication. Prayer Points Pray for Holiness Ask God to help you live a life set apart for His purposes, reflecting His holiness in all you do. Intercede for Others Spend time praying for the needs of others, lifting them up before God. Seek Divine Guidance Pray for wisdom and discernment in your decisions, trusting in God's perfect will. Commit to Integrity Ask God to help you live transparently and with integrity, ensuring your actions align with your faith. Dedicate Your Life to God Offer yourself anew to God, dedicating every aspect of your life to His service and glory. Bible Study Questions 1. How do the garments reflect the divine glory and splendor intended for Aaron and his sons? 2. What is the symbolic significance of the twelve stones on the breastpiece? 3. What role does the Urim and Thummim play, and how does this relate to the responsibility of the priests? 4. How does the craftsmanship involved in creating the garments speak to the value and respect given to the priestly office? 5. Why might the sound of the bells be crucial for Aaron's survival? 6. The phrase "HOLY TO THE LORD" was to be on Aaron's forehead. How can we apply this concept to our lives? 7. Why was it necessary for the priests to wear linen undergarments? 8. How does the ordination and consecration of Aaron and his sons parallel to spiritual responsibilities in your life? 9. How do the detailed instructions reflect God's nature? 10. In today's society, how can we symbolically "wear" our commitment to God? 11. How does this chapter speak to the significance of obedience in worship? 12. What does it mean to bear the iniquity of something as Aaron did with the holy things? 13. In what ways can we apply the concepts of consecration and ordination to our daily lives? 14. How does this chapter reinforce the idea of God's direct involvement with His people? 15. How do we see God's love and protection in the requirements given for the priests' garments? 16. In what ways do these instructions highlight the importance of holiness in God's service? 17. What is the importance of Aaron carrying the names of the sons of Israel over his heart? 18. If you were tasked with a responsibility similar to Aaron's, how would you prepare for it? 19. How do the various elements of the garments and their construction symbolize aspects of Christian life today? 20. What can this passage teach us about the seriousness with which we should approach our service to God? Topics 1. The Appointment of Priests (Exodus 28:1) God commands Moses to bring Aaron and his sons near to serve as priests. This establishes the hereditary priesthood, emphasizing the sacred role of Aaron's lineage in Israel's worship. 2. Holy Garments for Glory and Beauty (Exodus 28:2-5) The garments for Aaron are to be made for "glory and beauty," signifying the honor and splendor associated with the priestly office. The Hebrew words "כָּבוֹד" (kavod) for glory and "תִּפְאָרָה" (tif'arah) for beauty highlight the divine dignity and aesthetic of the priestly attire. 3. The Ephod (Exodus 28:6-14) Detailed instructions are given for making the ephod, a key priestly garment. It includes two onyx stones engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel, symbolizing the priest's role in representing the people before God. 4. The Breastpiece of Judgment (Exodus 28:15-30) The breastpiece, also known as the breastplate of judgment, is to be crafted with twelve stones representing the twelve tribes. It includes the Urim and Thummim, tools for divine decision-making, underscoring the priest's role in seeking God's guidance. 5. The Robe of the Ephod (Exodus 28:31-35) The robe is described with its hem adorned with pomegranates and bells. The sound of the bells signifies the priest's presence in the Holy Place, ensuring he is not struck down, highlighting the holiness required in approaching God. 6. The Turban and the Plate of Gold (Exodus 28:36-38) A gold plate inscribed with "Holy to the LORD" is to be attached to the turban, signifying the consecration of the priest to God. The Hebrew word "קֹדֶשׁ" (kodesh) for holy emphasizes the set-apart nature of the priestly service. 7. The Tunic, Turban, and Sash (Exodus 28:39-43) Instructions for the tunic, turban, and sash are given, along with linen undergarments to cover the priests' nakedness. This underscores the importance of modesty and purity in the service of God. Themes 1. Priestly Garments and Holiness Exodus 28 emphasizes the sacred nature of the priestly garments, which are designed "for glory and for beauty" (Exodus 28:2). The Hebrew word for "glory" is "כָּבוֹד" (kavod), indicating honor and reverence, while "beauty" is "תִּפְאָרֶת" (tiferet), suggesting splendor and magnificence. These garments symbolize the holiness and set-apart status of the priests, reflecting God's glory. 2. Divine Appointment and Service The chapter outlines the divine appointment of Aaron and his sons to serve as priests. The phrase "to minister as priests to Me" (Exodus 28:1) underscores their role as mediators between God and the Israelites. The Hebrew root "כָּהַן" (kahan) for "minister" conveys the idea of serving in a sacred capacity. 3. Symbolism of the Ephod and Breastpiece The ephod and breastpiece are described with intricate details, symbolizing the priest's role in bearing the names of the tribes of Israel before the Lord. The breastpiece is called "the breastpiece of judgment" (Exodus 28:15), with "judgment" translating from the Hebrew "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat), indicating the priest's role in discerning God's will. 4. Urim and Thummim The inclusion of the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece (Exodus 28:30) highlights the theme of divine guidance. These objects, whose names derive from Hebrew roots meaning "lights" and "perfections," were used to discern God's decisions, emphasizing reliance on divine wisdom. 5. Consecration and Anointing The chapter details the consecration of the priests, signifying their sanctification for service. The Hebrew root "מָשַׁח" (mashach) for "anoint" (Exodus 28:41) indicates the act of setting apart for a holy purpose, reflecting the theme of dedication to God. 6. Intercession and Mediation The high priest's garments, particularly the breastpiece with the engraved stones, symbolize his role in interceding for the people. The phrase "Aaron shall bear the names of the sons of Israel" (Exodus 28:29) highlights the priest's mediatory function, carrying the people's concerns before God. 7. Perpetual Statute The instructions for the priestly garments are described as a "perpetual statute" (Exodus 28:43), indicating the enduring nature of these ordinances. The Hebrew word "חֻקָּה" (chuqqah) for "statute" suggests a decree meant to be observed continually, underscoring the lasting significance of the priestly role. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions