Topical Encyclopedia The ephod is a significant garment in the biblical narrative, particularly within the context of the Israelite priesthood and worship. It is primarily associated with the high priest and other individuals serving in the presence of God. The ephod is mentioned numerous times throughout the Old Testament, serving both a functional and symbolic role in the religious life of Israel.Description and Construction The ephod is first described in detail in the Book of Exodus as part of the priestly garments. It is crafted from fine materials, including gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely twisted linen. The ephod is designed to be both beautiful and durable, reflecting the glory and holiness of God. Exodus 28:6-8 provides a detailed description: "They are to make the ephod of finely spun linen, embroidered with gold, and with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn. 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." Function and Symbolism The ephod serves as a key component of the high priest's attire, signifying his role as a mediator between God and the people of Israel. It is worn over the priestly robe and under the breastpiece, which contains the Urim and Thummim—tools used for divination and seeking God's will. The ephod's design, with its intricate craftsmanship and precious materials, symbolizes the beauty and sanctity of the priestly office. In addition to its use by the high priest, the ephod is also worn by other individuals engaged in the service of God. For example, Samuel, who served before the Lord as a child, is described as wearing a linen ephod (1 Samuel 2:18): "Now Samuel was ministering before the LORD—a boy wearing a linen ephod." This indicates that the ephod is not exclusively for the high priest but is also worn by those dedicated to God's service. Historical and Religious Context The ephod holds a prominent place in the religious practices of ancient Israel. It is not only a garment but also a tool for communication with God. In several instances, the ephod is associated with seeking divine guidance. For example, David uses the ephod to inquire of the Lord during times of crisis (1 Samuel 23:9-12). This highlights the ephod's role as a means of accessing God's wisdom and direction. The ephod also appears in narratives involving idolatry and improper worship, such as the account of Gideon, who made an ephod that became a snare to him and his family (Judges 8:27). This serves as a cautionary tale about the potential misuse of sacred objects and the importance of maintaining true worship. Conclusion The ephod, as described in the Bible, is a garment of profound religious significance. It represents the sanctity and responsibility of those who serve in the presence of God. Through its detailed construction and use in various biblical accounts, the ephod underscores the importance of holiness, divine communication, and the proper worship of the Lord. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 2:18But Samuel ministered before the LORD, being a child, girded with a linen ephod. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Samuel 6:14 Library Thankfulness for Mercies Received, a Necessary Duty Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Resources What was the significance of the ephod? | GotQuestions.orgDid David dance naked (2 Samuel 6:14)? | GotQuestions.org What were the Urim and Thummim? | 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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