Exodus 28:37
And thou shalt put it on a blue lace, that it may be upon the mitre; upon the forefront of the mitre it shall be.
Exodus 28:37 (KJV)
Context
God gave Moses detailed instructions for the high priest’s garments. This verse focuses on the mitre, a linen head-covering worn like a turban. The gold plate, engraved with “Holiness to the LORD” (Exodus 28:36), was to be tied to the front of the mitre with a blue lace. The blue lace was not decorative; it secured the holy plate in its proper place on the priest’s forehead. Every detail of the priestly attire was specified, showing that God cares about order and reverence in worship. The mitre left the forehead bare so the plate could be seen clearly, and the blue lace kept it firmly in that prominent position.
Meaning
The blue lace held the gold plate firmly against the forefront of the mitre. Blue often symbolized heaven and divinity in Israel’s worship. Its visible position reminded the high priest and the people of God’s holiness and His commandments. The precise instruction shows that every detail of worship mattered to God. Later, in Exodus 39:31, the artisans tied the lace to the mitre “as the LORD commanded Moses,” showing faithful obedience to God’s design. The blue lace was functional, not merely decorative. It ensured that the holy plate remained in its designated place, so the high priest could bear the holiness of God before Him. This careful attention to detail teaches us that approaching God requires meticulous care and that obedience in small things is beautiful in His sight.
Biblical connections
The high priest’s role points to Jesus Christ, our eternal High Priest. Hebrews 5:5-10 explains that Jesus was appointed by God, not by human choice. Unlike the Old Testament priests who wore special garments, Jesus intercedes for us continually. Hebrews 4:14-16 teaches that because of His perfect sacrifice, we can approach God’s throne with confidence and receive mercy and grace. The blue lace and the holy plate foreshadow the perfect holiness and mediation of Christ. Just as the high priest bore the holiness of God on his forehead, Jesus perfectly embodies that holiness and makes us acceptable before God. The order and reverence required in the old covenant find their fulfillment in Christ, who opens the way for us to draw near to God.
Application
God cares about the details of how we approach Him. The high priest’s garments remind us that holiness is not optional but essential in serving God. As believers, we are called to be a holy people, set apart for His service (1 Peter 2:9). The blue lace also reminds us to keep God’s Word central in our lives. Just as the plate was secured in a visible place, God’s commandments should be firmly fixed in our hearts and minds, guiding our daily choices. Consider these practical ways to apply this truth:
Examine your daily routines to see if they reflect God’s order and reverence.
Make time for regular reading and meditation on Scripture, so His truth stays central.
Look for small areas of obedience where you can honor God faithfully.
When we follow God’s instructions faithfully, even in seemingly minor details, we honor Him and grow in our walk with Him.
Reflection
The blue lace teaches us the value of obedience in small things. When we follow God’s instructions faithfully, even in seemingly minor details, we honor Him. The high priest bore the holiness of God on his forehead, and we too are called to reflect God’s character in everything we do. Let us examine our lives and ask whether we are securing God’s truth in our hearts as carefully as the blue lace secured the holy plate. May we be people who value the details of obedience, knowing that our faithful service is pleasing to God.
