What is the meaning of Exodus 28:38? Worn on Aaron’s forehead “And it will be worn on Aaron’s forehead” (Exodus 28:38a). • This “it” is the gold plate engraved with “Holy to the LORD” (Exodus 28:36 – 37). • Positioned on the high priest’s turban, the plate visually announces that Aaron belongs entirely to God. • Similar markers of belonging appear later: believers are called “a royal priesthood” set apart for the Lord in 1 Peter 2:9, and Christ Himself bears God’s name (Revelation 19:12–13). • The location—front and center—reminds the whole nation that holiness must always stay before their minds (Deuteronomy 6:8). Bearing the iniquity of the holy things “…so that he may bear the iniquity of the holy things that the sons of Israel consecrate with regard to all their holy gifts” (Exodus 28:38b). • Even the best offerings are tainted by human imperfection (Isaiah 64:6). • God appoints Aaron to “carry” those flaws away, prefiguring the greater High Priest who “bore our sins in His body on the tree” (1 Peter 2:24). • Leviticus 10:17 explains that priests “bear the guilt of the congregation” by eating the sin offering; Exodus 28:38 makes that responsibility visible. • Through substitution, the worshiper’s imperfection is transferred to the mediator—first Aaron, ultimately Christ (Hebrews 7:26–27). It shall always be on his forehead “It shall always be on his forehead” (Exodus 28:38c). • The plate is not occasional attire; continual holiness is required (Leviticus 8:35). • Constancy foreshadows Jesus, who “always lives to intercede” (Hebrews 7:25). • The steady presence assures Israel that God’s provision for their weakness never lapses (Numbers 6:24–26). Acceptable before the LORD “…so that they may be acceptable before the LORD” (Exodus 28:38d). • God’s acceptance depends on a mediator—first the Aaronic priesthood, later the once-for-all priesthood of Jesus (Hebrews 9:24). • The people’s gifts find favor only because God Himself supplies the means (Romans 5:1–2). • Acceptance is covenantal: “I will receive you” promises God in Leviticus 26:11; Aaron’s plate is a tangible guarantee of that promise. summary Exodus 28:38 shows a holy mediator, visibly bearing imperfect worship into God’s presence so the people and their gifts are welcomed. The gold plate on Aaron’s forehead announces continual consecration, carries the worshiper’s shortcomings, and assures lasting acceptance—a portrait fulfilled perfectly in Jesus Christ, our eternal High Priest. |
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