Exodus 39:31 – “Then they fastened a blue cord to it to attach it to the turban, as the Lord commanded Moses.”

Extended Explanation

Exodus 39:31 explains the final step in the creation of the High Priest’s headpiece, specifically how the golden plate with the inscription “HOLY TO THE LORD” was attached to the turban using a blue cord. This simple yet significant act ensured that the plate remained securely in place on the High Priest’s forehead, serving as a constant reminder of his consecration to God.

The blue cord used to fasten the plate is noteworthy. In the Bible, blue often symbolizes divinity, the heavens, and a connection to God’s commandments. By using a blue cord, the Israelites were not just securing the plate physically but were also symbolizing the High Priest’s direct connection to God. The attachment of the plate with a blue cord reinforced the idea that the High Priest’s role was to be holy and dedicated entirely to God’s service, always bearing the inscription “HOLY TO THE LORD” before Him.

Historical Context

The Israelites were in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt, receiving detailed instructions from God on how to build the Tabernacle and prepare the garments for the priests. The High Priest’s attire was meticulously designed according to God’s commands, with each piece holding symbolic and practical significance.

The fastening of the golden plate to the turban with a blue cord was an essential part of completing the High Priest’s garments. This process was done “as the Lord commanded Moses,” emphasizing the importance of obedience to God’s instructions. The blue cord connected the sacred emblem directly to the turban, a piece of clothing that symbolized authority and purity. This ensured that as the High Priest carried out his duties, the reminder of holiness and dedication to God was always present.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Exodus 39:31 underscores the importance of connection and obedience in our relationship with God. The blue cord represents the link between the High Priest’s dedication and his service to God. Just as the cord secured the plate, our lives must be securely tied to God’s Word and His commandments, ensuring that our actions reflect His holiness.

This verse also highlights the significance of external symbols in the expression of internal spiritual truths. The visible presence of the golden plate with the inscription “HOLY TO THE LORD” was a public declaration of the High Priest’s role and the sacredness of his duties. It reminds us that our faith should be visible and evident in our lives, showing that we are set apart for God’s purposes.

Literary Analysis

Exodus 39:31 is part of a detailed narrative that meticulously describes the creation of the High Priest’s garments. The verse uses clear and straightforward language to convey the practical step of fastening the golden plate with a blue cord. The phrase “as the Lord commanded Moses” is repeated throughout this chapter, emphasizing the theme of obedience and the importance of following God’s instructions precisely.

The focus on the blue cord as a connecting piece between the plate and the turban reinforces the idea of connection and continuity in the High Priest’s service. The imagery of the blue cord ties the verse to broader biblical themes of divine authority, holiness, and obedience.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Exodus 28:36-37: These verses provide the original instructions for making and attaching the golden plate, emphasizing its importance in the High Priest’s attire.
• Numbers 15:38-39: “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘Throughout the generations to come you are to make tassels on the corners of your garments, with a blue cord on each tassel. You will have these tassels to look at and so you will remember all the commands of the Lord, that you may obey them and not prostitute yourselves by chasing after the lusts of your own hearts and eyes.'” These verses highlight the significance of the blue cord as a reminder to follow God’s commandments.
• Psalm 119:11: “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” This verse speaks to the importance of keeping God’s Word close to us, much like the High Priest kept the inscription “HOLY TO THE LORD” on his forehead.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, Exodus 39:31 serves as a reminder of the importance of being securely connected to God through His Word and His commandments. Just as the blue cord fastened the golden plate to the turban, our lives should be anchored in God’s truth, ensuring that we reflect His holiness in all that we do. This verse challenges us to examine how well our lives are tied to God’s Word, and whether we are consistently living out our faith in a way that honors Him.

The verse also emphasizes the significance of external expressions of faith. While our relationship with God is deeply personal, it should also be evident to those around us. Just as the High Priest’s headpiece was a visible sign of his consecration to God, our actions and behavior should be a clear reflection of our commitment to following Christ.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love in His desire for a close, personal relationship with His people. By instructing the Israelites to create and secure the golden plate on the High Priest’s forehead, God shows His care for the details of how His people approach Him in worship. The blue cord symbolizes the connection between the High Priest and God, reminding us that God desires us to be closely connected to Him in every aspect of our lives.

God’s love is also evident in the way He provides clear instructions for how we are to live in holiness. Just as the blue cord held the inscription in place, God’s Word holds us in a place of security and righteousness when we follow it. This verse reminds us that God’s commands are not burdensome, but are given out of love to guide us into a life that is pleasing to Him.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

The blue cord that fastened the golden plate to the High Priest’s turban points forward to Jesus Christ, our ultimate High Priest. Just as the High Priest bore the inscription “HOLY TO THE LORD” on his forehead, Jesus perfectly embodies holiness and righteousness. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus secured our connection to God, making it possible for us to be holy and acceptable in God’s sight.

Hebrews 4:14-16 speaks of Jesus as our great High Priest who has passed through the heavens and is able to sympathize with our weaknesses. The blue cord symbolizes the connection between heaven and earth that Jesus provides, ensuring that we are always held securely in God’s love and grace.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does the image of the blue cord fastening the golden plate inspire you to stay connected to God’s Word in your daily life?
2. In what ways can you ensure that your faith is visible to others, much like the High Priest’s inscription was visible on his forehead?
3. How does recognizing Jesus as our High Priest deepen your understanding of the connection between holiness and our relationship with God?
4. What steps can you take to strengthen your connection to God’s Word and live out its truth in every area of your life?
5. How can you incorporate the values of obedience and holiness into your daily walk with God, ensuring that your life is securely tied to His commandments?

This exploration of Exodus 39:31 encourages believers to reflect on the importance of connection, obedience, and visible faith in their spiritual lives, all of which are exemplified and fulfilled in Jesus Christ, our eternal High Priest.