Exodus 28:5: “Have them use gold, and blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and fine linen.”
Extended Explanation
In Exodus 28:5, God gives Moses specific instructions regarding the materials to be used in crafting the priestly garments. The use of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, along with fine linen, reflects the importance and sacredness of these garments. These materials were chosen for their value, beauty, and symbolism, indicating that the garments were to be made with the utmost care and reverence.
Gold represents purity and divinity, blue symbolizes the heavens and spiritual truth, purple denotes royalty and majesty, and scarlet signifies sacrifice and atonement. The fine linen reflects purity and righteousness. Together, these materials create a garment that is both visually striking and deeply symbolic, setting apart Aaron and his sons for their holy service as priests.
The verse highlights the importance of using the best and most precious materials in the service of God, emphasizing that nothing less than the finest would be appropriate for garments that were to be worn in God’s presence.
Historical Context
This instruction is given in the context of the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. They were at Mount Sinai, where God was giving them detailed instructions on how to build the tabernacle, which would be the dwelling place of God among His people, and how to establish the priesthood.
In ancient times, the colors and materials mentioned in this verse were associated with wealth, status, and holiness. The Israelites had brought these materials with them from Egypt, where they had acquired them as part of God’s provision when they left slavery. Now, these same materials were to be used in the service of God, transforming what had been ordinary into something sacred.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 28:5 underscores the idea that God deserves the best of what we have to offer. The specific materials mentioned are not arbitrary; they are carefully chosen to reflect God’s glory and the seriousness of worshiping Him. This verse teaches that when we approach God, we should do so with the best we have, whether it be our time, resources, or talents.
This verse also speaks to the concept of holiness. The materials used for the priestly garments were not just for aesthetics; they symbolized the holiness required to serve in God’s presence. This reminds us that serving God is a serious and sacred responsibility that requires preparation, reverence, and the use of the finest “materials” in our spiritual lives.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 28:5 is a concise yet rich verse that provides a list of materials without delving into the details of their use. The verse is descriptive, emphasizing the quality and significance of the materials. The use of specific colors and materials creates a vivid image in the reader’s mind, conveying the importance of the garments that would be made.
The verse also sets the stage for the detailed instructions that follow, where each of these materials will be used in specific ways to craft the various pieces of the high priest’s garments. The careful selection of these materials reflects the order and precision with which God’s instructions are given, highlighting His desire for worship to be conducted in a manner that honors His holiness.
Biblical Cross-References
Several other passages in the Bible provide additional insight into the significance of the materials mentioned in Exodus 28:5:
- Exodus 35:4-9: Describes the gathering of these materials from the Israelites for the construction of the tabernacle and the priestly garments.
- 1 Chronicles 29:2: King David gathers gold, silver, and precious stones for the building of the temple, reflecting the importance of using the finest materials in the service of God.
- Revelation 21:18-21: Describes the New Jerusalem with walls of jasper, streets of gold, and gates of pearl, showing that the finest materials are used in the presence of God even in eternity.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 28:5 serves as a reminder that our service to God should be marked by excellence. Just as the Israelites were instructed to use the finest materials for the priestly garments, we too are called to give our best in our service to God. This might mean offering our time, talents, and resources in a way that reflects our reverence for Him.
The verse also encourages us to consider the “materials” we use in our spiritual lives. Are we investing in things that reflect God’s holiness and glory? Are we approaching our service to God with the same care and reverence that the Israelites were instructed to use in crafting the priestly garments?
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 28:5 reflects God’s love in the way He provides for His people and invites them to participate in His work. God didn’t just demand the finest materials; He had already provided them to the Israelites when they left Egypt. This verse shows that God equips His people with what they need to serve Him, and in turn, He asks for the best of what they have. It’s a relationship of giving and receiving, rooted in God’s love and care for His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ in that the materials used for the priestly garments symbolize aspects of His character and work. Jesus is the ultimate High Priest, whose purity, royalty, and sacrifice are perfectly represented in His life, death, and resurrection. The gold, blue, purple, and scarlet in the priestly garments foreshadow the divine qualities of Christ—His holiness, His kingship, and His atoning work on the cross.
In Christ, believers are “clothed” in righteousness, reflecting the finest “materials” of His character. Just as the high priest wore garments that were made with care and precision, so too are believers called to put on the character of Christ, living lives that reflect His glory and honor.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you offer the best of what you have in your service to God?
- What “materials” are you using in your spiritual life, and do they reflect the holiness and reverence that God deserves?
- How does understanding the symbolism of the priestly garments deepen your appreciation for the work of Jesus Christ as our High Priest?
- In what ways can you reflect the qualities of Christ—holiness, royalty, and sacrifice—in your daily life?