Exodus 29:6

And thou shalt put the mitre upon his head, and put the holy crown upon the mitre.

Exodus 29:6 (KJV)

Context

Exodus is the second book of the Bible. It tells how God freed the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and led them toward the Promised Land. In Exodus 29, God gives Moses detailed instructions for consecrating Aaron and his sons as priests for the tabernacle, the portable place of worship the Israelites carried in the wilderness.

Verse 6 belongs to the consecration ceremony of Aaron as high priest. It focuses on his headgear: Moses is to place the mitre, or turban, on Aaron’s head, and then put the holy crown upon the mitre. This act was part of setting Aaron apart for holy service.

Meaning

The mitre was a headpiece made of fine linen, wrapped around the head like a turban. It marked the priest as consecrated and separated for service in the tabernacle. The holy crown was a plate of pure gold placed on the front of the turban, on Aaron’s forehead, reaching from ear to ear and fastened with a blue lace. It bore the engraving “Holiness to the LORD” (Exodus 28:36-37). This golden plate is also called the holy crown or holy diadem.

The placement of the crown on the mitre shows that the high priest’s authority and service were rooted in holiness. The inscription was visible on the forehead, indicating that the priest’s thoughts and actions were to be dedicated to God. The mitre and crown together symbolized the dignity and sanctity of the priestly office.

Biblical connections

The fulfillment of this command is recorded in Leviticus 8:9, where Moses does exactly as the Lord commanded, placing the mitre on Aaron’s head and the golden plate on the front of the turban. This obedience underscores the importance of following God’s instructions precisely in worship.

The high priest’s role points to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate High Priest and the head of the Church (Colossians 1:18). Christ alone perfectly bears the holiness of God and makes us acceptable before Him. The elaborate headgear also reminds believers that those who serve God are called to be holy, set apart for His purposes.

Application

Exodus 29:6 reminds us of the importance of consecration, holiness, and submission to God’s authority. Just as the priests were set apart for service, we are called to live lives dedicated to God’s purposes, recognizing His authority and seeking to honor Him in all we do.

The holy crown with the inscription “Holiness to the LORD” serves as a constant reminder of our call to be a holy people, reflecting God’s character and love to the world around us. The careful attention to the priest’s headgear underscores the importance of holiness in approaching God and in representing Him to others.

Reflection

Consider what it means to wear the mark of holiness in daily life. The priest’s forehead bore the visible reminder that his thoughts and actions belonged to God. For believers, this calls for a life where every thought and deed is dedicated to the Lord.

Let us seek to be consecrated vessels, ready and willing to serve God and be used for His glory. As we go about our daily tasks, may the words “Holiness to the LORD” shape our attitudes, decisions, and relationships, so that our lives reflect the holiness of Christ, our great High Priest.