◄ Exodus 28 ►
Berean Standard Bible Par ▾ 

Garments for the Priests

1“Next, have your brother Aaron brought to you from among the Israelites, along with his sons Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar, to serve Me as priests. 2Make holy garments for your brother Aaron, to give him glory and splendor.

3You are to instruct all the skilled craftsmen, whom I have filled with a spirit of wisdom, to make garments for Aaron’s consecration, so that he may serve Me as priest. 4These are the garments that they shall make: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a woven tunic, a turban, and a sash. They are to make these holy garments for your brother Aaron and his sons, so that they may serve Me as priests. 5They shall use gold, along with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen.

The Ephod
(Exodus 39:1–7)

6They are to make the ephod of finely spun linen embroidered with gold, and with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn. 7It shall have two shoulder pieces attached at two of its corners, so it can be fastened. 8And the skillfully woven waistband of the ephod must be of one piece, of the same workmanship—with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with finely spun linen.

9Take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel: 10six of their names on one stone and the remaining six on the other, in the order of their birth. 11Engrave the names of the sons of Israel on the two stones the way a gem cutter engraves a seal. Then mount the stones in gold filigree settings. 12Fasten both stones on the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones for the sons of Israel. Aaron is to bear their names on his two shoulders as a memorial before the LORD.

13Fashion gold filigree settings 14and two chains of pure gold, made of braided cord work; and attach these chains to the settings.

The Breastpiece
(Exodus 39:8–21)

15You are also to make a breastpiece of judgment with the same workmanship as the ephod. Construct it with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with finely spun linen. 16It must be square when folded over double, a span long and a span wide.a

17And mount on it a setting of gemstones, four rows of stones:b

In the first row there shall be a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald;

18in the second row a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond;

19in the third row a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst;

20and in the fourth row a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper.

Mount these stones in gold filigree settings. 21The twelve stones are to correspond to the names of the sons of Israel, each engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes.

22For the breastpiece, make braided chains like cords of pure gold. 23You are also to make two gold rings and fasten them to the two corners of the breastpiece. 24Then fasten the two gold chains to the two gold rings at the corners of the breastpiece, 25and fasten the other ends of the two chains to the two filigree settings, attaching them to the shoulder pieces of the ephod at the front.

26Make two more gold rings and attach them to the other two corners of the breastpiece, on the inside edge next to the ephod.

27Make two additional gold rings and attach them to the bottom of the two shoulder pieces of the ephod, on its front, near its seam just above its woven waistband. 28The rings of the breastpiece shall be tied to the rings of the ephod with a cord of blue yarn, so that the breastpiece is above the waistband of the ephod and does not swing out from the ephod.

29Whenever Aaron enters the Holy Place, he shall bear the names of the sons of Israel over his heart on the breastpiece of judgment, as a continual reminder before the LORD.

30And place the Urim and Thummimc in the breastpiece of judgment, so that they will also be over Aaron’s heart whenever he comes before the LORD. Aaron will continually carry the judgment of the sons of Israel over his heart before the LORD.

Additional Priestly Garments
(Exodus 39:22–31)

31You are to make the robe of the ephod entirely of blue cloth, 32with an opening at its top in the center. Around the opening shall be a woven collar with an opening like that of a garment,d so that it will not tear.

33Make pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn all the way around the lower hem, with gold bells between them, 34alternating the gold bells and pomegranates around the lower hem of the robe.

35Aaron must wear the robe whenever he ministers, and its sound will be heard when he enters or exits the sanctuary before the LORD, so that he will not die.

36You are to make a plate of pure gold and engrave on it as on a seal:

HOLY TO THE LORD.e

37Fasten to it a blue cord to mount it on the turban; it shall be on the front of the turban. 38And it will be worn on Aaron’s forehead, so that he may bear the iniquity of the holy things that the sons of Israel consecrate with regard to all their holy gifts. It shall always be on his forehead, so that they may be acceptable before the LORD.

39You are to weave the tunic with fine linen, make the turban of fine linen, and fashion an embroidered sash. 40Make tunics, sashes, and headbands for Aaron’s sons, to give them glory and splendor.

41After you put these garments on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint them, ordain them, and consecrate them so that they may serve Me as priests.

42Make linen undergarments to cover their bare flesh, extending from waist to thigh. 43Aaron and his sons must wear them whenever they enter the Tent of Meeting or approach the altar to minister in the Holy Place, so that they will not incur guilt and die. This is to be a permanent statute for Aaron and his descendants.

Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible.

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Exodus 28 Summary
Garments for the Priests

Verses 1–5 – Priestly Appointment and Sacred Garments
Aaron and his sons—Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar—are singled out to serve as priests. God commands Moses to gather skilled artisans to make “holy garments” made of gold, blue, purple, scarlet yarn, and fine linen so that Aaron may minister “in My presence” with dignity and splendor.

Verses 6–14 – The Ephod Constructed
The ephod, a richly colored vest, is woven of the same materials as the tabernacle curtains. Two shoulder pieces hold onyx stones engraved with the names of the twelve tribes, “as a memorial before the LORD,” so the high priest carries the people on his shoulders.

Verses 15–30 – The Breastpiece of Judgment
A square pouch holds twelve precious stones in four rows. Each stone is engraved with a tribe’s name and set in gold filigree. Inside the breastpiece are the mysterious Urim and Thummim for seeking God’s decisions, and the whole piece is bound to the ephod so it “will not swing loose.”

Verses 31–35 – The Robe of the Ephod
Beneath the ephod Aaron wears a seamless blue robe. Its hem is ringed with alternating pomegranates and golden bells. The bells must sound when he enters and exits the Holy Place “so that he will not die.”

Verses 36–38 – The Golden Plate on the Turban
A pure-gold medallion engraved “HOLY TO THE LORD” is fastened to the front of Aaron’s turban with a blue cord. It bears “the guilt of the holy offerings,” ensuring the gifts of Israel are accepted.

Verse 39 – Tunic, Turban, and Sash
Aaron’s white linen tunic is finely woven, matched with a decorated sash and the turban beneath the golden plate.

Verses 40–43 – Garments for Aaron’s Sons and Undergarments
Aaron’s sons receive tunics, sashes, and headbands “for glory and beauty.” Linen undergarments reach from waist to thigh to prevent exposure when they approach the altar, “lest they incur guilt and die.”

This chapter guides us through the intricate process of creating the holy garments for Aaron and his sons. It underscores the importance of exacting obedience to divine instructions, highlighting the deep symbology embedded within each component of the vestments. The chapter also elucidates the sacred responsibilities of the priests, serving as a bridge between the people and God.

Historical Setting and Purpose

• Exodus 28 follows the tabernacle blueprint (chs. 25–27). Having prepared God’s dwelling, the text now prepares the men who will serve inside it (cf. Leviticus 8–9).

• Priestly garments distinguish sacred service from ordinary life (Ezekiel 42:14). Like the tabernacle furniture, they mirror heavenly patterns shown to Moses (Exodus 25:9, 40).

• Egyptian imagery is fresh in Israel’s memory. Yet God gives a distinct design that sets His worship apart, emphasizing holiness, not royal self-exaltation.

The Ephod: Design, Symbolism, and Use

• A sleeveless, apron-like vest of linen, gold thread, and dyed wool. Archaeological parallels from Ugarit and Egypt show similar court garments, but none match the precise symbolism here.

• Onyx shoulder stones (possibly banded onyx or sardonyx) are encased in gold settings. “Aaron shall bear their names before the LORD on his two shoulders for remembrance” (28:12). The priest literally carries Israel’s burdens into God’s presence (Isaiah 9:6 echoes the image with Messiah).

• Gold chains attach the breastpiece, forming a unified garment that speaks of unity among the tribes.

The Breastpiece: Stones and Inscription

• Twelve gemstones in four rows: sardius, topaz, emerald; ruby, sapphire, diamond; jacinth, agate, amethyst; beryl, onyx, jasper (28:17-20). Gem identification can shift over time, but the variety conveys beauty, value, and uniqueness. Revelation 21:19-20 lists similar stones in the New Jerusalem’s foundations, linking priestly ministry to future glory.

• “Breastpiece of judgment” means decisions are rendered there. Wearing it over his heart, Aaron keeps the people close to the place of discernment (compare 1 Samuel 2:28).

• Inside rest the Urim and Thummim (Numbers 27:21), perhaps two engraved stones producing yes/no answers. However they functioned, their secrecy reminds worshipers that guidance is God’s gift, not human technique.

Urim and Thummim: Discerning God’s Will

• Hebrew roots suggest “lights” and “perfections.” They reappear in the time of Joshua (Numbers 27:21) and Saul (1 Samuel 14:41).

• Their placement in the breastpiece shows divine guidance is tied to covenant representation. Jesus, our High Priest, embodies perfect revelation (Hebrews 1:1-2), replacing external lots with His Spirit’s internal leading.

The Bells and Pomegranates: Holiness and Life

• Golden bells warn of approach. Sound marks the priest’s movement, reflecting reverence (cf. Leviticus 16:2).

• Pomegranates symbolize fruitfulness and life (Numbers 13:23; Song of Songs 4:3). Their alternation with bells mingles life and sound, joy and caution—hallmarks of true worship.

The Golden Plate: HOLY TO THE LORD

• Engraved like a signet ring (28:36). Signet imagery recalls authority (Genesis 41:42).

• Positioned above the forehead, it proclaims the priest—and by extension the people—set apart to God (1 Peter 2:9 echoes this priestly calling for all believers).

Priestly Tunics, Sashes, and Turbans: Modesty and Identity

• White linen tunics picture purity (Revelation 19:8).

• A sash (colored for Aaron, plain for sons) binds the tunic, symbolizing readiness to serve (Luke 12:35).

• The turban crowns the head, upholding dignity. Zechariah 3:5 foresees Messiah’s priestly coronation with a “clean turban.”

Undergarments and the Biblical View of Nakedness

• Linen undergarments “from the waist to the thigh” prevent accidental exposure (28:42). Genesis 3:7-10 shows shame tied to sin; priestly service requires covering.

• Modesty points to respect for God’s holiness and for one another (1 Timothy 2:9 speaks similarly to church life).

Archaeological Insights: Ancient Near Eastern Priestly Garb

• Excavations at Lachish and Megiddo have uncovered Egyptian linen fragments dyed in blue and purple, indicating that Israelites had access to​ such materials in the Late Bronze Age.

• Cylinder seals from Mari depict priests wearing frontlets and shoulder pieces, yet none bear tribal inscriptions. Exodus 28’s personalization is unique, highlighting covenant identity over mere status.

Prophetic and New Testament Echoes

• Isaiah 61:10: “He has clothed me with garments of salvation… a priestly bridegroom.”

• Hebrews 4:14-15 identifies Jesus as the great High Priest who passes through the heavens, fulfilling every garment’s symbolism.

• Revelation 1:13 pictures the risen Christ “clothed in a long robe with a golden sash,” melding ephod and sash into king-priest attire.

Patterns of Intercession and Mediation

• Shoulder stones = burden bearing; breast stones = heart carrying. Both meet in Christ, who carries our sins (1 Peter 2:24) and keeps us on His heart (John 13:1).

• The bells’ sound signals safe access. Through Jesus we have “confidence to enter the Most Holy Place” (Hebrews 10:19).

Applications for Worship Today

• God cares about how we approach Him—attitude, appearance, and respect all matter.

• Spiritual leaders bear people on their hearts and shoulders in prayer and deed.

• Holiness is more than external clothing, yet external choices should reflect internal devotion.

• Corporate worship blends reverence (bells) and fruitfulness (pomegranates); joy and seriousness belong together.

Key Cross-References

Exodus 19:6; Leviticus 8–10; Numbers 27:18-23; 1 Samuel 14:36-45; Isaiah 61:10; Zechariah 3:1-5; Hebrews 4:14-16; 1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 1:13; 21:19-20.

Connections to Additional Scriptures
1 Peter 2:9
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. This verse connects the priestly calling in Exodus to the New Testament believers.

Hebrews 4:14-16
These verses speak of Jesus as our great high priest, who intercedes for us, fulfilling the role foreshadowed by Aaron.

Romans 12:1
Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. This verse emphasizes the call to holiness and dedication.
Teaching Points
Divine Appointment and Holiness
Exodus 28:1-2 states, And bring near to you your brother Aaron and his sons with him, from among the Israelites, to serve Me as priests—Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron’s sons. Make holy garments for your brother Aaron, to give him glory and splendor. The garments signify the divine appointment and the call to holiness for those who serve God.

Symbolism of the Ephod and Breastpiece
Verses 6-30 describe the ephod and breastpiece, adorned with precious stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. This symbolizes the priest's role in bearing the people before God and interceding on their behalf.

The Urim and Thummim
In verse 30, the Urim and Thummim are placed in the breastpiece of judgment. These mysterious objects were used to discern God's will, highlighting the importance of seeking divine guidance in leadership.

The Robe and Its Bells
Verses 31-35 describe the robe with bells of gold. The sound of the bells signified the priest's movement in the Holy Place, reminding us of the need for transparency and accountability in our spiritual walk.

The Turban and Its Inscription
Verse 36 instructs the making of a plate of pure gold with the inscription HOLY TO THE LORD. This signifies the dedication and consecration required of those who serve God.
Practical Applications
Pursue Holiness
Just as the priests were set apart for service, we are called to live lives of holiness and dedication to God.

Intercede for Others
Like the high priest who bore the names of the tribes, we are called to intercede for others, bringing their needs before God in prayer.

Seek God's Guidance
The use of the Urim and Thummim reminds us to seek God's will in our decisions and to trust in His guidance.

Live Transparently
The bells on the robe encourage us to live lives of integrity and accountability, ensuring our actions align with our faith.

Dedicate Yourself to God
The inscription HOLY TO THE LORD challenges us to dedicate every aspect of our lives to God's service.
People
1. Aaron
Aaron is the brother of Moses and is appointed as the high priest. The chapter details the garments that are to be made for him, signifying his role as the spiritual leader and mediator between God and the Israelites. The Hebrew name "אַהֲרֹן" (Aharon) is used, which is consistent throughout the Old Testament.

2. Nadab
Nadab is the eldest son of Aaron. He is mentioned as one of the sons who will serve as priests alongside Aaron. His name in Hebrew is "נָדָב" (Nadav), meaning "generous" or "noble."

3. Abihu
Abihu is the second son of Aaron. Like his brother Nadab, he is also set apart for priestly duties. His Hebrew name "אֲבִיהוּא" (Avihu) means "he is my father."

4. Eleazar
Eleazar is another son of Aaron, who will also serve as a priest. His name in Hebrew is "אֶלְעָזָר" (Elazar), meaning "God has helped."

5. Ithamar
Ithamar is the youngest son of Aaron. He is included in the priestly lineage and duties. The Hebrew name "אִיתָמָר" (Itamar) means "island of palms."
Places
1. Israel
While not directly mentioned in the chapter, the context of Exodus 28 is the nation of Israel, as the instructions are given to Moses for the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests for the Israelites. The Hebrew root for Israel is "יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Yisra'el), meaning "God contends" or "one who struggles with God."

2. The Tabernacle
Although not explicitly named in Exodus 28, the Tabernacle is the central place where the priestly garments will be used. The Tabernacle, or "מִשְׁכָּן" (Mishkan) in Hebrew, meaning "dwelling place," is the portable sanctuary where God dwells among His people.

3. The Holy Place
The garments described in Exodus 28 are to be worn by the priests when they minister in the Holy Place. The Holy Place is part of the Tabernacle, where sacred rituals are performed. The Hebrew term is "קֹדֶשׁ" (Qodesh), meaning "holy" or "sacred."
Events
1. Command to Make Holy Garments (Exodus 28:1-2)
God instructs Moses to bring Aaron and his sons near to serve as priests. He commands the making of holy garments for Aaron, "for glory and for beauty."

2. Selection of Skilled Artisans (Exodus 28:3)
God tells Moses to speak to all the skilled artisans whom He has filled with the spirit of wisdom to make Aaron's garments for consecration.

3. List of Garments (Exodus 28:4)
The specific garments to be made are listed: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a woven tunic, a turban, and a sash.

4. The Ephod (Exodus 28:5-14)
Detailed instructions are given for making the ephod using gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen. It includes shoulder pieces and two onyx stones engraved with the names of the sons of Israel.

5. The Breastpiece of Judgment (Exodus 28:15-30)
Instructions for the breastpiece include its design, materials, and the setting of twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. The Urim and Thummim are to be placed in the breastpiece.

6. The Robe of the Ephod (Exodus 28:31-35)
The robe is to be made entirely of blue cloth with an opening for the head and adorned with pomegranates and bells of gold around the hem.

7. The Turban and Plate (Exodus 28:36-38)
A plate of pure gold engraved with "Holy to the LORD" is to be fastened to the front of the turban with a blue cord.

8. Other Garments for Aaron's Sons (Exodus 28:39-43)
Tunics, sashes, and headbands are to be made for Aaron's sons for glory and beauty. Linen undergarments are also specified to cover their nakedness.
Topics
1. The Appointment of Priests (Exodus 28:1)
God commands Moses to bring Aaron and his sons near to serve as priests. This establishes the hereditary priesthood, emphasizing the sacred role of Aaron's lineage in Israel's worship.

2. Holy Garments for Glory and Beauty (Exodus 28:2-5)
The garments for Aaron are to be made for "glory and beauty," signifying the honor and splendor associated with the priestly office. The Hebrew words "כָּבוֹד" (kavod) for glory and "תִּפְאָרָה" (tif'arah) for beauty highlight the divine dignity and aesthetic of the priestly attire.

3. The Ephod (Exodus 28:6-14)
Detailed instructions are given for making the ephod, a key priestly garment. It includes two onyx stones engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel, symbolizing the priest's role in representing the people before God.

4. The Breastpiece of Judgment (Exodus 28:15-30)
The breastpiece, also known as the breastplate of judgment, is to be crafted with twelve stones representing the twelve tribes. It includes the Urim and Thummim, tools for divine decision-making, underscoring the priest's role in seeking God's guidance.

5. The Robe of the Ephod (Exodus 28:31-35)
The robe is described with its hem adorned with pomegranates and bells. The sound of the bells signifies the priest's presence in the Holy Place, ensuring he is not struck down, highlighting the holiness required in approaching God.

6. The Turban and the Plate of Gold (Exodus 28:36-38)
A gold plate inscribed with "Holy to the LORD" is to be attached to the turban, signifying the consecration of the priest to God. The Hebrew word "קֹדֶשׁ" (kodesh) for holy emphasizes the set-apart nature of the priestly service.

7. The Tunic, Turban, and Sash (Exodus 28:39-43)
Instructions for the tunic, turban, and sash are given, along with linen undergarments to cover the priests' nakedness. This underscores the importance of modesty and purity in the service of God.
Themes
1. Priestly Garments and Holiness
Exodus 28 emphasizes the sacred nature of the priestly garments, which are designed "for glory and for beauty" (Exodus 28:2). The Hebrew word for "glory" is "כָּבוֹד" (kavod), indicating honor and reverence, while "beauty" is "תִּפְאָרֶת" (tiferet), suggesting splendor and magnificence. These garments symbolize the holiness and set-apart status of the priests, reflecting God's glory.

2. Divine Appointment and Service
The chapter outlines the divine appointment of Aaron and his sons to serve as priests. The phrase "to minister as priests to Me" (Exodus 28:1) underscores their role as mediators between God and the Israelites. The Hebrew root "כָּהַן" (kahan) for "minister" conveys the idea of serving in a sacred capacity.

3. Symbolism of the Ephod and Breastpiece
The ephod and breastpiece are described with intricate details, symbolizing the priest's role in bearing the names of the tribes of Israel before the Lord. The breastpiece is called "the breastpiece of judgment" (Exodus 28:15), with "judgment" translating from the Hebrew "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat), indicating the priest's role in discerning God's will.

4. Urim and Thummim
The inclusion of the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece (Exodus 28:30) highlights the theme of divine guidance. These objects, whose names derive from Hebrew roots meaning "lights" and "perfections," were used to discern God's decisions, emphasizing reliance on divine wisdom.

5. Consecration and Anointing
The chapter details the consecration of the priests, signifying their sanctification for service. The Hebrew root "מָשַׁח" (mashach) for "anoint" (Exodus 28:41) indicates the act of setting apart for a holy purpose, reflecting the theme of dedication to God.

6. Intercession and Mediation
The high priest's garments, particularly the breastpiece with the engraved stones, symbolize his role in interceding for the people. The phrase "Aaron shall bear the names of the sons of Israel" (Exodus 28:29) highlights the priest's mediatory function, carrying the people's concerns before God.

7. Perpetual Statute
The instructions for the priestly garments are described as a "perpetual statute" (Exodus 28:43), indicating the enduring nature of these ordinances. The Hebrew word "חֻקָּה" (chuqqah) for "statute" suggests a decree meant to be observed continually, underscoring the lasting significance of the priestly role.
Answering Tough Questions
1. Exodus 28:2–5: Where did nomadic Israelites supposedly in the desert acquire the costly fabrics, precious stones, and gold for such elaborate garments?

2. Exodus 28:6–14: How plausible is it that detailed and specialized craftsmanship for the ephod existed among a recently freed slave population?

3. Exodus 28:15–21: Could the precise identification and sourcing of twelve specific gemstones align historically with the Israelites’ environment and trading networks?

4. Exodus 28:30: How reliable is the claim about the Urim and Thummim, given the lack of concrete archeological evidence or consistent references elsewhere?

5. Exodus 28:36–38: Why is there no documented historical record outside the Bible describing a headplate inscribed “Holy to the LORD” used by high priests?

Bible Study Discussion Questions

1. How do the garments reflect the divine glory and splendor intended for Aaron and his sons?

2. What is the symbolic significance of the twelve stones on the breastpiece?

3. What role does the Urim and Thummim play, and how does this relate to the responsibility of the priests?

4. How does the craftsmanship involved in creating the garments speak to the value and respect given to the priestly office?

5. Why might the sound of the bells be crucial for Aaron's survival?

6. The phrase "HOLY TO THE LORD" was to be on Aaron's forehead. How can we apply this concept to our lives?

7. Why was it necessary for the priests to wear linen undergarments?

8. How does the ordination and consecration of Aaron and his sons parallel to spiritual responsibilities in your life?

9. How do the detailed instructions reflect God's nature?

10. In today's society, how can we symbolically "wear" our commitment to God?

11. How does this chapter speak to the significance of obedience in worship?

12. What does it mean to bear the iniquity of something as Aaron did with the holy things?

13. In what ways can we apply the concepts of consecration and ordination to our daily lives?

14. How does this chapter reinforce the idea of God's direct involvement with His people?

15. How do we see God's love and protection in the requirements given for the priests' garments?

16. In what ways do these instructions highlight the importance of holiness in God's service?

17. What is the importance of Aaron carrying the names of the sons of Israel over his heart?

18. If you were tasked with a responsibility similar to Aaron's, how would you prepare for it?

19. How do the various elements of the garments and their construction symbolize aspects of Christian life today?

20. What can this passage teach us about the seriousness with which we should approach our service to God?



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