Topical Bible: Priest: The Time of Moses: Don Vestments in the Temple Area

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In the time of Moses, the role of the priest was central to the religious life of the Israelites, serving as mediators between God and His people. The priesthood was established by divine command, with Aaron and his sons being set apart for this sacred duty (Exodus 28:1). The priests were responsible for performing sacrifices, maintaining the sanctuary, and instructing the people in the laws of God.

Vestments and Their Significance

The vestments worn by the priests were not merely ceremonial garments but were imbued with deep spiritual significance. These garments were designed according to specific instructions given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, as recorded in the Book of Exodus. The attire of the high priest, in particular, was elaborate and symbolic, reflecting the holiness and glory of God.

The high priest's garments included the ephod, a richly embroidered apron-like garment, and the breastpiece, which held the Urim and Thummim for divine decision-making (Exodus 28:6-30). The robe of the ephod was blue, with pomegranates and golden bells on its hem, signifying fruitfulness and the sound of the priest's movement within the sanctuary (Exodus 28:31-35). The turban, with a gold plate inscribed with "HOLY TO THE LORD," was worn on the forehead, symbolizing the consecration of the priest to God (Exodus 28:36-38).

Donning Vestments in the Temple Area

The act of donning these vestments was a sacred ritual in itself, performed in the temple area, which was the designated holy space for worship and sacrifice. The priests were required to wash themselves before putting on their garments, signifying purification and readiness to serve in the presence of the Almighty (Exodus 30:17-21). This washing took place at the bronze basin, which was situated between the tent of meeting and the altar.

The donning of the vestments was not merely a matter of tradition but was commanded by God as a perpetual statute. "And you shall put them on Aaron your brother and on his sons with him. You shall anoint them and ordain them and consecrate them, so that they may serve Me as priests" (Exodus 28:41). This act of wearing the sacred garments was a visual representation of the priest's role as a mediator, set apart for the service of God and the people.

The Role of the Priests in the Temple

Once vested, the priests carried out their duties within the temple area, which included offering sacrifices, burning incense, and maintaining the sacred space. The high priest, in particular, had the unique privilege of entering the Most Holy Place once a year on the Day of Atonement, wearing special garments prescribed for this solemn occasion (Leviticus 16:4).

The vestments served as a constant reminder of the holiness required of those who approached God on behalf of the people. The meticulous care in their design and the reverence with which they were donned underscored the gravity of the priestly office and the sanctity of the temple service.

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Ezekiel 42:14
When the priests enter therein, then shall they not go out of the holy place into the utter court, but there they shall lay their garments wherein they minister; for they are holy; and shall put on other garments, and shall approach to those things which are for the people.
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Ezekiel 44:19
And when they go forth into the utter court, even into the utter court to the people, they shall put off their garments wherein they ministered, and lay them in the holy chambers, and they shall put on other garments; and they shall not sanctify the people with their garments.
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The Reaction against Egypt
... those of Karnak, which he destined to become the central colonnade of a hypostyle
hall as vast as that of the sister temple. Either money or time was lacking ...
/.../chapter iithe reaction against egypt.htm