Exodus 28:6: “Make the ephod of gold, and of blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and of finely twisted linen—the work of skilled hands.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 28:6 introduces the ephod, a crucial garment worn by the high priest. The ephod was to be made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, along with finely twisted linen. These materials were not chosen randomly; each one carried deep symbolic meaning, signifying the sacred nature of the high priest’s role. The gold represented divinity and purity, while the blue symbolized heaven and spiritual truth. Purple indicated royalty, and scarlet pointed to sacrifice. The finely twisted linen emphasized purity and righteousness.
The ephod was essentially a garment that covered the priest’s shoulders and back, serving as a foundational piece of the high priest’s attire. It was crafted with exceptional skill, as the verse notes that it was “the work of skilled hands.” This detail underscores the importance of craftsmanship in worship, reflecting the idea that serving God requires the best of what we have to offer, both in materials and in the care with which they are used.
Historical Context
The ephod was part of the larger set of instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai, where God provided detailed guidelines for the construction of the tabernacle and the consecration of the priesthood. The Israelites, newly freed from slavery in Egypt, were being formed into a covenant community, with the tabernacle serving as the center of their worship and religious life.
In the ancient Near East, garments often signified status and authority. The ephod, as part of the high priest’s attire, was no exception. It set the high priest apart, indicating his special role as the mediator between God and the people. The craftsmanship required to make the ephod reflects the broader cultural value placed on skilled artisanship, particularly in the service of religious and royal duties.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 28:6 speaks to the holiness required of those who approach God. The materials and craftsmanship of the ephod symbolize the purity, royalty, and sacrifice necessary to fulfill the priestly role. This verse reminds us that the worship of God is not to be taken lightly; it requires careful preparation and the best that we have to offer.
The ephod, made of precious materials and crafted by skilled hands, also points to the concept of divine calling. The high priest was not an ordinary person but someone chosen and set apart by God for a special purpose. The care taken in making the ephod reflects the seriousness of this calling and the responsibility it carried.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 28:6 is descriptive and prescriptive, providing specific instructions for the creation of the ephod. The verse emphasizes the use of high-quality materials and the necessity of skilled craftsmanship. The repetition of colors and materials throughout the instructions for the priestly garments creates a sense of continuity and order, highlighting the importance of each item in the overall design.
The verse also reflects the broader literary structure of Exodus, where detailed descriptions of the tabernacle and its furnishings serve to underscore the holiness and majesty of God. The attention to detail in the construction of the ephod mirrors the care and precision with which God’s people are to approach Him in worship.
Biblical Cross-References
Several other scriptures expand on the significance of the ephod and its materials:
- Exodus 39:2-7: Provides a detailed account of the making of the ephod, following the instructions given in Exodus 28.
- Leviticus 8:7: Describes the consecration of Aaron as high priest and his being dressed in the ephod, marking the beginning of his priestly duties.
- 1 Samuel 23:9-10: Mentions the use of the ephod in seeking God’s guidance, showing its role in the priestly mediation between God and the people.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 28:6 serves as a reminder of the importance of giving our best to God. The ephod, made of precious materials and crafted with skill, symbolizes the quality and care that should characterize our service to God. Whether in our work, worship, or daily lives, we are called to offer God the finest of what we have, reflecting His holiness and majesty.
This verse also challenges us to consider how we approach God. The high priest’s ephod was a symbol of his role as a mediator between God and the people. As Christians, we too are called to be mediators of God’s love and truth in the world, and this requires us to live lives that reflect the holiness and dedication symbolized by the ephod.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 28:6 reflects God’s love in providing specific instructions for how His people were to worship Him. The detailed instructions for the ephod show that God cares about every aspect of our worship and service, ensuring that everything is done in a way that honors Him. This verse also shows God’s provision in equipping His people with the skills and materials needed to fulfill His commands, reflecting His desire for a relationship with them that is marked by holiness and dedication.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ as the ultimate High Priest, who perfectly fulfills the role symbolized by the ephod. Jesus is the mediator between God and humanity, and His life, death, and resurrection embody the purity, royalty, and sacrifice that the ephod represented. Unlike the ephod, which was made by human hands, Jesus’ righteousness is inherent and perfect, offering believers direct access to God through Him.
In the New Testament, believers are called to “put on Christ” (Romans 13:14), which means living in a way that reflects His character and righteousness. Just as the ephod set the high priest apart for service, so too does our identification with Christ set us apart as God’s people, called to live holy lives in His service.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you offer the best of what you have in your service to God, reflecting the quality and care seen in the making of the ephod?
- What does it mean to you to be set apart for God’s service, and how does that influence your daily life?
- How does understanding Jesus as our High Priest deepen your appreciation for His role as our mediator before God?
- In what ways can you “put on Christ” in your daily actions and decisions, reflecting His holiness and righteousness?