What role does "cover their bare flesh" play in maintaining priestly holiness? Text Under Study “Make linen undergarments to cover their bare flesh, from the waist to the thigh. Aaron and his sons must wear them whenever they enter the Tent of Meeting or approach the altar to minister in the sanctuary, so that they do not incur guilt and die.” (Exodus 28:42-43) Setting of the Command • Given alongside detailed instructions for the high priest’s ephod, breastpiece, and robe (Exodus 28:1-41). • Reiterated principle: “Do not go up to My altar on steps, lest your nakedness be exposed upon it” (Exodus 20:26). • Applies to every appearance in God’s presence, whether within the tent (service) or outside it (transporting ashes, Leviticus 6:10-11). Why “Cover Their Bare Flesh”? • Reverence before a holy God – The priests serve “before the LORD” (Exodus 28:1); exposed flesh would trivialize His glory. • Protection from guilt and death – The warning “so that they do not incur guilt and die” shows the gravity. God’s holiness is lethal to irreverence (Leviticus 10:1-3). • Modesty as part of holiness – Nakedness became associated with shame after the fall (Genesis 3:7, 21). Priestly garments reverse the curse-image by clothing. • Separation from pagan practice – Neighboring cults often employed nude priests; Israel’s priests were visibly different (Leviticus 18:3). • Symbol of inner purity – Linen, free from mixed fibers (Leviticus 19:19), pictures unmixed devotion. From “waist to thigh” underscores purity even in hidden areas. • Anticipation of righteousness in Christ – Garments prefigure “robes of righteousness” (Isaiah 61:10) and “fine linen, bright and clean” granted to the bride of the Lamb (Revelation 19:8). How Covering Maintains Holiness • Creates a physical barrier between human flesh and sacred objects, preventing casual contact. • Reminds priests that service is never routine; every movement is regulated by God’s word. • Underscores that holiness is comprehensive—physical, moral, and spiritual. • Functions as continual catechism: each time they dress, they confess God is holy and they are set apart. Related Passages • Leviticus 16:4—High priest’s Day of Atonement linen clothes. • Ezekiel 44:18—Millennial priests still wear linen, “lest they perspire.” • Isaiah 6:2—Even sinless seraphim cover themselves before God, reinforcing the principle. • 1 Peter 2:9—Believers as a “royal priesthood,” called to the same holy distinction. Take-Home Applications • Modesty remains a practical expression of reverence (1 Timothy 2:9). • Guard the unseen areas of life; holiness is more than public appearance. • Approach God on His terms, not ours—Scripture, not culture, defines acceptable worship. • Gratefully embrace the greater covering Christ provides (Romans 13:14). |
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