“And for Aaron’s sons thou shalt make coats, and thou shalt make for them girdles, and bonnets shalt thou make for them, for glory and for beauty.”
Context:In Exodus 28, God gives detailed instructions to Moses regarding the garments that the priests, particularly Aaron and his sons, were to wear while serving in the tabernacle. These priestly garments were designed to be both practical and symbolic, signifying the holiness and sanctification of the priests as they ministered before the Lord.
Verse Breakdown:
- "And for Aaron’s sons thou shalt make coats": The first item mentioned here is the coat or tunic, a long garment that covered the priest’s body. This was an essential piece of clothing for the priest’s attire.
- "and thou shalt make for them girdles": The next item is the girdle or sash, which was worn around the waist. The girdle was used to secure and tighten the priest’s clothing, allowing for greater freedom of movement during their service in the tabernacle.
- "and bonnets shalt thou make for them": The final item mentioned is the bonnet or turban, which was a headdress worn on the head. It was a distinctive part of the priestly attire and served to set them apart from the rest of the people.
Purpose:The verse states that these garments were to be made "for glory and for beauty." Here, "glory" refers to the honor and reverence that the priestly garments brought to the office of the priesthood. The attire signified the priests’ consecration and set them apart as holy servants of the Lord. The beauty of the garments likely refers to their aesthetic appearance, which would have been impressive and dignified, reflecting the importance of the priestly role.
Symbolism:
- Holiness and Sanctification:The priestly garments symbolized the holiness and sanctification of the priesthood. The garments were to be made with care and precision, representing the purity and righteousness required of those who approached God in the tabernacle.
- Identification and Representation:By wearing these distinct garments, the priests represented the people before God and, in turn, represented God before the people. They served as intermediaries, offering sacrifices and conducting rituals on behalf of the community.
- Unity and Order:The uniformity of the priestly garments fostered a sense of unity among the priesthood. It emphasized the order and structure within the religious system established by God.
Application:While the specific instructions in Exodus 28:40 apply to the priests in ancient Israel, there are some spiritual principles we can draw from this passage:
- Reverence in Worship:Just as the priests wore special garments to approach God, we should approach worship with reverence and respect. Our hearts should be consecrated and set apart for God, honoring Him in our worship and service.
- Representation as Ambassadors:As Christians, we are called to be ambassadors of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). Like the priests who represented the people before God, we represent Christ to the world. We should conduct ourselves in a manner that reflects His holiness and love.
- Unity in the Body of Christ:The unity displayed through the priestly garments can remind us of the importance of unity within the Church. We are part of one body, with Christ as the head (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). We should strive to maintain harmony and peace among believers, serving one another in love.
In conclusion, Exodus 28:40 reveals the significance of the priestly garments in the Old Testament and provides valuable insights into the principles of holiness, representation, and unity that have broader applications for our lives as followers of God.
