The priestly garments, as described in the Old Testament, hold profound symbolic significance, reflecting the holiness, service, and divine authority of the priesthood. These garments, detailed primarily in the Book of Exodus, were worn by Aaron and his descendants, the Levitical priests, as they ministered before the Lord. Each piece of the attire was meticulously designed and imbued with spiritual meaning, serving as a visual representation of the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people of Israel.

The Ephod

The ephod, a central piece of the high priest's attire, was made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely twisted linen (Exodus 28:6). It symbolized the priest's role in bearing the names of the tribes of Israel before the Lord, as the two onyx stones on the shoulder pieces were engraved with the names of the twelve tribes (Exodus 28:9-12). This act of bearing the names signified the priest's intercessory role, carrying the people of Israel into God's presence.

The Breastpiece of Judgment

Attached to the ephod was the breastpiece of judgment, crafted with the same materials and adorned with twelve precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the tribes of Israel (Exodus 28:15-21). This breastpiece symbolized the priest's duty to seek God's will and make judgments on behalf of the people. The Urim and Thummim, placed within the breastpiece, were used to discern divine guidance, emphasizing the priest's role in seeking and revealing God's truth.

The Robe of the Ephod

The robe of the ephod was entirely blue, with pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and gold bells around the hem (Exodus 28:31-34). The blue color often symbolizes heaven and divine revelation, while the pomegranates and bells served both practical and symbolic purposes. The bells announced the high priest's entrance into the Holy Place, ensuring he was heard and did not die (Exodus 28:35). This aspect highlighted the holiness required in approaching God and the need for reverence in His presence.

The Turban and the Plate of Gold

The high priest wore a turban with a plate of pure gold fastened to it, inscribed with the words "HOLY TO THE LORD" (Exodus 28:36-38). This inscription signified the consecration of the priest to God's service, marking him as set apart for holy duties. The turban and the gold plate underscored the sanctity and authority of the priestly office, reminding both the priest and the people of the holiness required in worship and service to God.

The Tunic, Sash, and Undergarments

The tunic, sash, and undergarments were made of fine linen (Exodus 28:39-42). Linen, a symbol of purity and righteousness, reflected the moral and spiritual purity expected of the priests. The meticulous attention to detail in these garments underscored the importance of holiness and the need for the priests to be ritually clean as they performed their sacred duties.

Overall Symbolism

The priestly garments collectively symbolized the beauty, glory, and holiness of the priesthood. They served as a constant reminder of the priest's sacred responsibilities and the need for purity and dedication in serving God. The garments also pointed to the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfilled the priestly role, offering Himself as the final and perfect sacrifice for sin. As the Book of Hebrews explains, Christ entered the heavenly sanctuary once for all, securing eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:11-12). Through His priesthood, believers are invited into a new covenant relationship with God, clothed in the righteousness of Christ.