Topical Encyclopedia The ephod is a significant garment in the biblical tradition, particularly within the context of the priesthood in ancient Israel. It is most famously associated with the high priest, but it was also worn by ordinary priests, serving as a symbol of their sacred duties and responsibilities.Biblical Description and Function The ephod worn by ordinary priests is distinct from the more elaborate version worn by the high priest. While the high priest's ephod was richly adorned with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and featured the breastplate with the Urim and Thummim (Exodus 28:6-30), the ephod of the ordinary priests was simpler in design. It was typically made of plain linen, reflecting the purity and humility required of those serving in the presence of God. The primary function of the ephod was to serve as a garment of service, signifying the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people. It was part of the sacred attire that set the priests apart for their holy duties, as described in Exodus 28:40-41: "Make tunics, sashes, and headbands for Aaron’s sons, to give them glory and splendor. After you put these clothes on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint and ordain them. Consecrate them so they may serve Me as priests." Symbolism and Significance The ephod's significance extends beyond its physical appearance. It symbolizes the priestly office and the responsibilities that come with it. The linen material of the ordinary priest's ephod is often interpreted as a representation of righteousness and purity, qualities essential for those who minister before the Lord. The simplicity of the garment underscores the humility and dedication required of the priests, who were to serve without drawing attention to themselves but rather to the glory of God. Historical Context In the historical context of ancient Israel, the ephod was an integral part of the priestly vestments. It was worn during various religious ceremonies and rituals, including sacrifices and offerings. The ephod's presence in these sacred activities highlights its role in maintaining the covenant relationship between God and His people. The ephod also appears in narratives involving figures such as Samuel, who, though not a priest by lineage, wore a linen ephod as he ministered before the Lord (1 Samuel 2:18). This indicates the ephod's broader association with service to God, extending beyond the Levitical priesthood. Theological Implications Theologically, the ephod worn by ordinary priests points to the broader theme of holiness and consecration in the Bible. It serves as a reminder of the call to holiness that God extends to His people, as seen in Leviticus 19:2: "Speak to the entire congregation of the Israelites and tell them: ‘Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.’" The ephod, therefore, is not merely a garment but a symbol of the divine calling to live a life set apart for God's purposes. In summary, the ephod worn by ordinary priests is a vital element of the biblical priesthood, rich in symbolism and significance. It underscores the themes of service, purity, and dedication to God, reflecting the high calling of those who minister in His name. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 22:18And the king said to Doeg, Turn you, and fall on the priests. And Doeg the Edomite turned, and he fell on the priests, and slew on that day fourscore and five persons that did wear a linen ephod. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Of the Five Sacraments, Falsely So Called. Their Spuriousness ... Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... A Discourse Resources Who was Gideon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgJudaism and the Mosaic Law ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of Pishon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Ephod: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest used As an Oracle Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: An Inferior, Was Worn by the Ordinary Priests Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: Breastplate Attached To Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: Described Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: It Was Called Coat Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: The Making of Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: Worn by Aaron Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: Worn by David Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: Worn by Samuel The Ephod for the High Priest used by Idolatrous Priests The Ephod for the High Priest: Breastplate of Judgment Inseparably United To The Ephod for the High Priest: Commanded to be Made The Ephod for the High Priest: Fastened on With Its own Girdle The Ephod for the High Priest: had a Girdle of Curious Work The Ephod for the High Priest: Israel Deprived of, for Sin The Ephod for the High Priest: Made of Gold, Blue, Purple, Scarlet The Ephod for the High Priest: Made of offerings of the People The Ephod for the High Priest: Shoulders of, Joined by Onyx Stones Engraved With Names of The Ephod for the High Priest: Worn or Held by Him when Consulted The Ephod for the High Priest: Worn Over the Robe The Ephod: The Emblem of the Priestly office The Ephod: Worn by Generally of Linen The Ephod: Worn by Ordinary Priests The Ephod: Worn by Persons Engaged in the Service of God The Ephod: Worn by The High Priest Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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