Exodus 39:28 – “And the turban of fine linen, the linen caps and the undergarments of finely twisted linen.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 39:28 describes the completion of additional garments worn by the priests: the turban, the linen caps, and the undergarments, all made of fine linen. These garments were essential to the priests’ attire, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. The turban, worn by the High Priest, was a significant part of his headgear, symbolizing his consecration and dedication to God. The linen caps worn by the other priests provided a similar function, indicating their set-apart status. The undergarments were made to ensure modesty and purity as the priests carried out their duties in the Tabernacle.
The emphasis on the fine quality of the linen and the care in crafting these garments highlights the importance of holiness and purity in approaching God. Every piece of the priestly attire was made with specific materials and careful attention to detail, reflecting the reverence with which the priests were to conduct themselves in their service to the Lord.
Historical Context
The Israelites were in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt when God gave Moses detailed instructions for constructing the Tabernacle and making the garments for the priests. The priests, including the High Priest, wore specific garments that set them apart for their sacred duties. These garments were not merely for appearance but were imbued with deep symbolic meaning, representing the holiness and purity required of those who served in the presence of God.
The turban, caps, and undergarments were made of fine linen, a high-quality material that was durable and comfortable. Linen was also associated with purity and cleanliness, making it an appropriate fabric for garments worn in the service of God. The turban, in particular, was significant as it symbolized the High Priest’s role as the one who bore the iniquity of the people before God, emphasizing the need for purity in his thoughts and actions.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 39:28 emphasizes the importance of purity, modesty, and holiness in the service of God. The fine linen used for the priests’ garments symbolizes the purity required of those who approach God. The turban and caps represent the need for holiness in the thoughts and attitudes of those who serve God, while the undergarments underscore the importance of modesty and moral integrity.
This verse also highlights the care and precision with which God’s instructions were followed in making the priestly garments. It serves as a reminder that God values holiness in every aspect of our lives, including our outward appearance and behavior. The priests’ garments were a constant reminder of their set-apart status and the sacred nature of their duties, calling them to live lives that reflected the holiness of God.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 39:28 is part of the broader narrative that details the construction of the Tabernacle and the making of the priestly garments. The verse uses simple yet descriptive language to convey the materials and types of garments made for the priests. The repetition of the use of fine linen throughout the description emphasizes the purity and quality expected in the service of God.
The structure of the verse, which lists the different garments made, contributes to the overall sense of order and reverence in the preparation of the priests for their duties. The attention to detail in the crafting of these garments reflects the broader theme of holiness and obedience that runs throughout the book of Exodus.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 28:39-42: These verses provide the original instructions for making the turban, caps, and undergarments, emphasizing the importance of these garments in the priests’ service.
- Isaiah 61:10: “I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness.” This verse highlights the spiritual significance of being clothed in righteousness, paralleling the symbolic meaning of the priestly garments.
- 1 Peter 2:9: “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” This verse speaks to the priestly role of all believers, emphasizing the need for holiness and purity.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 39:28 serves as a reminder of the importance of purity and holiness in our walk with God. Just as the priests were clothed in garments of fine linen, symbolizing their set-apart status, we are called to live lives that reflect the righteousness and holiness of Christ. This verse challenges us to consider how we present ourselves before God, both in our outward appearance and in our hearts.
The turban, caps, and undergarments also remind us of the need for modesty, integrity, and purity in our thoughts and actions. As Christians, we are called to approach God with clean hands and pure hearts, striving to live in a way that honors Him in every aspect of our lives.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in His desire for a close and holy relationship with His people. By providing detailed instructions for the priests’ garments, God shows His care for how His people prepare to worship Him. The use of fine linen for the priests’ garments symbolizes God’s desire for His people to approach Him in purity and holiness, reflecting His own holy nature.
God’s love is also evident in the way He provides for our spiritual needs. Just as the priests were given specific garments to wear, symbolizing their role as intermediaries between God and the people, we are clothed in the righteousness of Christ, enabling us to approach God with confidence. This verse reminds us that God desires us to be holy as He is holy, providing everything we need to live lives that honor Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The garments worn by the priests in the Old Testament point forward to Jesus Christ, our ultimate High Priest. Just as the priests wore garments of fine linen to symbolize their holiness and dedication, Jesus lived a life of perfect righteousness, fully dedicated to fulfilling God’s will. Hebrews 7:26 describes Jesus as “holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens,” emphasizing His perfect qualification as our High Priest.
Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus has provided us with the “garments of salvation” mentioned in Isaiah 61:10, clothing us in His righteousness and making it possible for us to approach God with confidence. The fine linen garments worn by the priests serve as a symbol of the righteousness that we receive through faith in Christ, who has made us holy and acceptable before God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the description of the fine linen garments worn by the priests inspire you to pursue purity and holiness in your own life?
- In what ways can you ensure that your thoughts and actions reflect the holiness symbolized by the priests’ attire?
- How does recognizing Jesus as our High Priest deepen your appreciation for the righteousness that He has provided for us?
- What steps can you take to ensure that you approach God with a pure heart and a sincere spirit in your daily walk with Him?
- How can you incorporate the values of modesty, integrity, and purity in your relationship with God and others?
This exploration of Exodus 39:28 encourages believers to reflect on the importance of purity, dedication, and holiness in their spiritual lives, all of which are exemplified and fulfilled in Jesus Christ, our eternal High Priest.