Exodus 39:30

They also made the plate of the holy crown of pure gold, and they engraved on it, like an inscription on a seal: HOLY TO THE LORD.

Study Bible

The sacred diadem
The phrase "the sacred diadem" refers to a holy crown or headpiece, which in Hebrew is "צִיץ" (tzitz). This diadem was a significant part of the high priest's garments, symbolizing holiness and dedication to God. The use of the word "sacred" underscores its consecrated nature, set apart for divine purposes. Historically, the diadem was a visible sign of the high priest's role as an intermediary between God and the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of purity and sanctity in worship.

of pure gold
The use of "pure gold" signifies the highest quality and value, reflecting the preciousness of the relationship between God and His people. Gold, in biblical times, was a symbol of wealth, purity, and divine glory. The choice of pure gold for the diadem indicates the splendor and majesty of God, as well as the honor bestowed upon the high priest. This aligns with the biblical theme of offering the best to God, as seen throughout the Old Testament.

and inscribed on it
The phrase "and inscribed on it" highlights the act of engraving, which in Hebrew is "פִּתּוּחֵי חוֹתָם" (pituchay chotam), meaning engraved as a signet. This suggests permanence and authority, as inscriptions were meant to last and convey important messages. The act of inscribing the diadem signifies the enduring nature of God's covenant and the unchanging truth of His word.

like a seal
The comparison "like a seal" indicates that the inscription was not merely decorative but carried the weight and authority of a seal. In ancient times, seals were used to authenticate documents and signify ownership or authority. This imagery reinforces the idea that the high priest bore the authority of God, serving as His representative on earth. It also symbolizes the binding nature of God's promises and the security found in His covenant.

HOLY TO THE LORD
The inscription "HOLY TO THE LORD" is central to the diadem's significance. In Hebrew, this is "קֹדֶשׁ לַיהוָה" (Kodesh LaYHWH), meaning set apart for Yahweh. This declaration of holiness emphasizes the consecration of the high priest to God's service. It serves as a constant reminder of the call to holiness for all believers, as echoed in 1 Peter 1:16, "Be holy, because I am holy." The phrase encapsulates the essence of the priestly role and the call for God's people to live lives dedicated to Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the priestly garments.

2. The Israelites
The people of God who contributed materials and labor for the construction of the Tabernacle.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

4. The High Priest
The spiritual leader of Israel, who wore the holy crown as part of his sacred garments.

5. Mount Sinai
The place where God gave Moses the instructions for building the Tabernacle and the priestly garments.

Teaching Points

Holiness in Service
The inscription "HOLY TO THE LORD" signifies the set-apart nature of the high priest's role. As believers, we are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness in all we do.

Symbolism of the Crown
The crown represents authority and dedication to God. In our lives, we should recognize Christ's authority and dedicate ourselves to His service.

Craftsmanship and Worship
The detailed work of Bezalel and Oholiab shows that our skills and talents are gifts from God, meant to be used for His glory. We should strive for excellence in our work as an act of worship.

Identity in Christ
Just as the high priest bore the inscription of holiness, believers are marked by their identity in Christ. We should live in a way that reflects our identity as God's people.

Community Contribution
The Israelites' collective effort in building the Tabernacle teaches us the importance of community in fulfilling God's purposes. We are called to work together in the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of holiness in Exodus 39:30 apply to our daily lives as Christians today?

2. In what ways can we use our skills and talents to serve God, similar to Bezalel and Oholiab?

3. How does the idea of being "HOLY TO THE LORD" challenge our understanding of personal and communal worship?

4. What are some practical ways we can reflect our identity in Christ in our interactions with others?

5. How can the community of believers today emulate the collective effort of the Israelites in building the Tabernacle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 8
Describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons, where the holy crown is part of the priestly garments, emphasizing the holiness required in serving God.

Zechariah 14:20
Prophesies a time when even the common items will be inscribed with "HOLY TO THE LORD," indicating the pervasive holiness in God's kingdom.

1 Peter 2:9
Refers to believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the holiness of the Old Testament priesthood to the calling of Christians today.