Bible Commentaries
Exodus 28

Verses 1-43

The account of the calling and the hallowing of the priests for the exercise of their sacred office is given in detail. The outstanding values are revealed in certain clear statements. That of the purpose of the robing of the priests is stated in the words, ". . . make Aaron's garments to sanctify him, that he may minister unto Me in the priests' office." A careful study of the description of these garments will reveal very much that is important to an understanding of the divine thought concerning priesthood.

Taking them briefly, not in the order here described but in that of the actual robing, we notice first that the undergarments were to be of fine linen, symbolic of the necessity for personal purity. Covering this was the robe of the ephod, all of blue-this in Eastern imagery suggesting the necessity for familiarity with heavenly things. The alternating bell and pomegranate on the skirts of the priest's robe were typical of his obligation to testimony and fruit bearing. Over these was placed the ephod itself, the essential garment of the priestly function, while on the head rested the sacred miter, or priestly crown. Completing the glorious apparel were ornaments of great beauty. Attached to the miter on the head was a plate bearing the inscription, "HOLY TO THE LORD," the significance of which is self-evident. On the shoulders onyx stones engraved with the names of the tribes indicated the office of bearing their burdens. On the heart rested the breastplate, with the names of the tribes inscribed there also on precious stones. In the center of this was the mystic Urim and Thummim. All this was intended to emphasize that the office of the priest was to carry the people on his heart in discovering the divine mind and will concerning them.