“And there shall be an hole in the top of it, in the midst thereof: it shall have a binding of woven work round about the hole of it, as it were the hole of a habergeon, that it be not rent.”
Context:Exodus 28 provides detailed instructions from God to Moses regarding the garments to be made for Aaron, the high priest, and his sons, who would serve in the tabernacle. These garments were to be made with great care and craftsmanship, as they symbolized the holiness and separation of the priesthood for their service to the Lord.
And there shall be a hole in the top of it, in the midst thereof:The “it” in this verse refers to the ephod, a significant part of the high priest’s attire. The ephod was a sleeveless garment made of fine linen and adorned with precious stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel (Exodus 28:6-14). The “hole” mentioned here was probably an opening for the priest’s head to pass through. The positioning “in the midst thereof” suggests it was centrally located on the garment.
It shall have a binding of woven work round about the hole of it, as it were the hole of a habergeon:The ephod’s opening was to be reinforced with a strong woven binding. The word “habergeon” refers to a type of mail armor, indicating that the binding was to be sturdy and durable, similar to the construction of protective armor.
That it be not rent:The purpose of the reinforced hole with the binding was to prevent the ephod from tearing or becoming damaged. This was essential because the ephod represented the high priest’s authority and connection to God, and any imperfection in its construction would not be fitting for the sacred office.
Spiritual Lessons:
Attention to Detail:God’s instructions to create the priestly garments with precision and care remind us of the importance of attention to detail in our service to God. Just as the ephod was to be made without flaw, God desires our best efforts in serving Him.
Holiness and Separation:The garments of the high priest were designed to set him apart from the rest of the people, signifying the importance of holiness and consecration in God’s service. As Christians, we are also called to live holy and separated lives, dedicated to God and His purposes.
God’s Provision and Protection:The reinforced binding on the ephod’s opening served as a reminder of God’s provision and protection for His servants. God equips those He calls and provides the necessary strength and support to fulfill their roles effectively.
Symbolism of Christ:The ephod, along with other aspects of the high priest’s attire, foreshadows Jesus Christ as our great High Priest. Jesus intercedes on our behalf before God, just as the high priest represented the people before God in the Old Testament.
Application:As we reflect on Exodus 28:32, let’s strive to serve God with excellence, knowing that He calls us to be set apart and dedicated to His purposes. Let’s seek His provision and protection as we fulfill our roles in His kingdom, keeping our focus on Jesus Christ, our ultimate High Priest and Savior.
