And of the blew, and purple, and scarlet, they made clothes of seruice, to doe seruice in the holy place, and made the holy garments for Aaron, as the Lord commanded Moses. Exodus 39:1 (KJV)
The book of Exodus is the second book of the Old Testament and belongs to the Pentateuch, the first five books of Scripture. It tells how God delivered the Israelites from Egyptian slavery under Moses’ leadership. The verse under study belongs to the larger narrative describing the construction of the tabernacle, the portable sanctuary where God would dwell among His people during their wilderness journey.
The passage records that the blue, purple, and scarlet cloths were made for service in the holy place. These cloths were used to cover and protect the sacred objects and furniture inside the tabernacle, such as the Ark of the Covenant, the table of showbread, the golden lampstand, and the altar of incense. The same fabrics were also fashioned into the holy garments for Aaron, the High Priest, underscoring the special role of the priestly vestments.
The work was carried out exactly as the Lord commanded Moses, highlighting the importance of obedience to God’s specific instructions. By following the divine pattern, the Israelites demonstrated their reverence for the holiness of the sanctuary and their commitment to God’s covenant.
The colors themselves carry symbolic meaning. Blue often represents the divine nature, the heavenly realm, and the law of God. Purple signifies royalty, authority, and the kingship of God. Scarlet points to blood, sacrifice, and redemption. Together these hues reinforce the theological significance of the tabernacle and its furnishings.
Overall, the verse showcases the Israelites’ meticulous adherence to God’s design, their reverence for the sacred space, and the symbolic depth of the priestly garments. It teaches that obedience, holiness, and an awareness of symbolic truth are central to worship.
Application for today includes a call to obey God’s commands as an expression of love and honor for His holiness. Believers are urged to approach worship with awe and respect, recognizing the majesty of God’s presence. Understanding the symbolism in biblical worship can deepen appreciation for God’s redemptive plan and attributes. Finally, just as the priests were set apart for sacred duties, Christians are called to be a holy and separate people, living in the world without conforming to its ways, and striving to honor God in every aspect of life.
In conclusion, Exodus 39:1 teaches obedience, reverence, and the power of symbolic worship. It invites believers to seek a deeper understanding of God’s instructions, to approach Him with awe, and to apply these timeless principles in daily life, drawing closer to Him through faithful service.
