The priestly garments, as described in the Old Testament, are a significant aspect of the religious and ceremonial life of ancient Israel. These garments were worn by the priests, particularly the high priest, during their service in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. The detailed instructions for these garments are primarily found in the Book of Exodus, specifically in chapters 28 and 39.

Biblical Description and Components

The priestly garments were designed to reflect the holiness and glory of God, serving as a visual representation of the sacred duties performed by the priests. The garments included several specific items, each with its own symbolic meaning and function.

1. The Ephod: The ephod was a sleeveless garment made of fine linen, embroidered with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn. It was worn over the priest's robe. The ephod had two shoulder pieces, each set with an onyx stone engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. "And you shall make the ephod of gold, of blue and purple and scarlet yarn, and of finely spun linen, the work of a skilled craftsman" (Exodus 28:6).

2. The Breastpiece of Judgment: Attached to the ephod was the breastpiece, a square, embroidered piece of fabric that held twelve stones, each representing one of the tribes of Israel. The breastpiece also contained the Urim and Thummim, used for divination and decision-making. "Fashion a breastpiece for making decisions—the work of a skilled craftsman. Make it like the ephod: of gold, of blue and purple and scarlet yarn, and of finely spun linen" (Exodus 28:15).

3. The Robe of the Ephod: This robe was entirely blue and had a hem decorated with pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, interspersed with golden bells. The sound of the bells was to be heard when the high priest entered and exited the Holy Place, signifying his presence before the Lord. "You are to make the robe of the ephod entirely of blue cloth" (Exodus 28:31).

4. The Turban and the Plate of Gold: The high priest wore a turban of fine linen, with a gold plate attached to the front, inscribed with the words "Holy to the LORD." This signified the consecration of the high priest to God. "Make a plate of pure gold and engrave on it as on a seal: HOLY TO THE LORD" (Exodus 28:36).

5. The Tunic, Sash, and Undergarments: The tunic was a long, white linen garment worn under the robe. The sash was woven with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and the undergarments were made of linen to cover the body from the waist to the thighs. "Weave the tunic with fine linen, and make the turban of fine linen, and the sash with embroidered work" (Exodus 28:39).

Symbolism and Function

The priestly garments were not merely ceremonial attire but were imbued with deep symbolic meaning. They represented the sanctity and separation of the priesthood, the mediation between God and His people, and the beauty and glory of divine service. The use of precious materials and intricate craftsmanship underscored the importance of the priestly role and the reverence due to God.

The high priest, in particular, bore the responsibility of representing the entire nation of Israel before God, as symbolized by the stones on the ephod and breastpiece. The garments also served as a reminder of the covenant between God and Israel, with the high priest acting as an intermediary who facilitated atonement and intercession.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the priestly garments find their ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is described as the Great High Priest. The Book of Hebrews elaborates on this theme, emphasizing that Christ's priesthood surpasses the old order, as He offers a perfect and eternal sacrifice. The imagery of the priestly garments thus points forward to the redemptive work of Christ, who mediates a new covenant between God and humanity.