(1) Overview
(NAC) the fabrics and colors of the materials for the garments (v. 5) were the same as those also used for the lovely inner curtains and entrance curtain of the tabernacle itself.
(2) Ephod
(BKC) The ephod was probably a sleeveless outer garment that covered the priest’s upper body. Apparently it had two parts, a front and a back, that were fastened on two shoulder pieces with straps (braided chains) of gold with mounted onyx stones (v. 9) and held to the body with a belt at the waist (v. 8).
[Side notes]
[Side notes]
(NAC) used to clothe its wearer symbolically so as to represent God among his people. Indeed the ephod became eventually such a symbol of the divine presence that “forged” ephods—modeled on the proper, legitimate one—could actually be worshiped as if they were idols.
(3) In the context of making Aaron and his sons to be the priests, God first told Moses about their garments v.1-2. Therefore, the garments play an important role of the priests.
28:2 You must make holy garments for your brother Aaron, for glory and for beauty
v.3b garments to set him apart to minister as my priest.
v.4b They are to make holy garments for your brother Aaron and for his sons, that they may minister as my priests
28:9 “You are to take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel
28:9 “You are to take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel
v.12b stones of memorial for the sons of Israel, and Aaron will bear their names before the LORD on his two shoulders for a memorial
The priests were chosen by God and by themselves they were nothing special. However, the garments were highly decorated with color, gold, and precious stones to give people the impression of glory and beauty. The garments set the priests apart from other people so that they could serve as priests on behalf of the people.
The priests were chosen by God and by themselves they were nothing special. However, the garments were highly decorated with color, gold, and precious stones to give people the impression of glory and beauty. The garments set the priests apart from other people so that they could serve as priests on behalf of the people.
Reflection: Christians are also set apart as priests per 1 Peter 2:9 and our garment is Jesus Christ Rom 13:14. We are not special, but Jesus is. He is glorious and beautiful. He set us apart from other people. Shall we not live our lives the same way as others, but set apart ourselves for God?
The priests who wore this garment for a purpose and so do we. Do we serve God? Do we bring people to God? Do we pray for the other's behalf?
Audrey
Audrey
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