Topical Bible: The Ephod: Worn by Generally of Linen

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Topical Encyclopedia

The ephod is a significant garment mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily associated with the priestly attire of ancient Israel. It is most notably linked to the high priest's ceremonial dress but also appears in other contexts. The ephod is generally described as being made of linen, a fabric commonly used for sacred garments due to its purity and quality.

Biblical Description and Function

The ephod is first detailed in the Book of Exodus as part of the instructions given to Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle and the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests. Exodus 28:6-8 describes the ephod: "They are to make the ephod of finely spun linen, with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with skillful work. It shall have two shoulder pieces attached at two of its corners, so it can be fastened. And the skillfully woven waistband of the ephod must be of one piece, of the same workmanship—with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with finely spun linen."

The ephod served both a practical and symbolic function. It was part of the high priest's attire, signifying his role as a mediator between God and the people of Israel. The ephod was also associated with the breastpiece of judgment, which contained the Urim and Thummim, tools used for divination and seeking God's will (Exodus 28:30).

Materials and Construction

The ephod was crafted from fine linen, a material chosen for its durability and purity. The inclusion of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarns added to its splendor and signified its sacred purpose. The use of these colors and materials was not arbitrary; each held symbolic meaning within the Israelite tradition, often representing royalty, divinity, and sacrifice.

Usage Beyond the High Priest

While the ephod is most commonly associated with the high priest, it was not exclusively worn by him. Other priests and even some non-priestly figures are recorded as wearing ephods. For instance, 1 Samuel 2:18 notes, "Now Samuel was ministering before the LORD—a boy wearing a linen ephod." This indicates that the ephod could also be worn by those serving in the presence of the Lord, even if they were not of the high priestly line.

Additionally, King David is described as wearing a linen ephod when he brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, as recorded in 2 Samuel 6:14 : "And David, wearing a linen ephod, danced with all his might before the LORD." This instance highlights the ephod's role in worship and celebration, extending its use beyond the confines of the Tabernacle or Temple.

Symbolism and Theological Significance

The ephod's design and use underscore its theological significance. As a garment worn during sacred duties, it symbolized holiness, service, and the unique role of the priesthood in Israel's covenant relationship with God. The ephod's connection to the Urim and Thummim further emphasizes its role in divine communication and decision-making.

In summary, the ephod is a richly symbolic garment, intricately designed and deeply embedded in the religious life of ancient Israel. Its use by priests and other significant figures underscores its importance in worship and its role as a tangible representation of the sacred duties performed by those chosen to serve before the Lord.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 2:18
But Samuel ministered before the LORD, being a child, girded with a linen ephod.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Samuel 6:14
And David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was girded with a linen ephod.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Whether There Can be any Suitable Cause for the Sacraments of the ...
... Speaking generally, the uncleanness contracted by touching an unclean thing ... was square
in shape, and was worn on the breast, and was fastened to the ephod. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/aquinas/summa theologica/whether there can be any 2.htm

The King --Continued.
... and kingly robe for the priest's ephod, when he ... God and quickening and beautifying
the worn world, the ... The answer generally given is, "The Messiah's." Who is ...
//christianbookshelf.org/maclaren/the life of david/xii the kingcontinued.htm

Notes
... purple-edged toga praetexta, which was worn during the ... David from his wearing the
priestly ephod as he ... 33 The words vulnerum piamina are generally supposed to ...
//christianbookshelf.org/prudentius/the hymns of prudentius/notes.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... of his writings, and this hypothesis is generally accepted by ... and without pillar,
and without ephod or teraphim ... had exhausted their resources and worn out the ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

A Discourse
... in the mountain and forest of Lebanon, for recreation in summer time; but generally
held to ... This piece of armour, I suppose, was worn in old time by them that ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse.htm