Exodus 28:32

KJV

And there shall be an hole in the top of it, in the midst thereof: it shall have a binding of woven work round about the hole of it, as it were the hole of an habergeon, that it be not rent.

KJV (with Strong's)

And there shall be an hole {H6310} in the top {H7218} of it, in the midst {H8432} thereof: it shall have a binding {H8193} of woven {H707} work {H4639} round about {H5439} the hole {H6310} of it, as it were the hole {H6310} of an habergeon {H8473}, that it be not rent {H7167}.

Complete Jewish Bible

It is to have an opening for the head in the middle. Around the opening is to be a border woven like the neck of a coat of mail, so that it won't tear.

Berean Standard Bible

with an opening at its top in the center. Around the opening shall be a woven collar with an opening like that of a garment, so that it will not tear.

American Standard Version

And it shall have a hole for the head in the midst thereof: it shall have a binding of woven work round about the hole of it, as it were the hole of a coat of mail, that it be not rent.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 28:32 provides meticulous divine instructions for the construction of the high priest's ephod, specifically detailing the design of its neck opening. It mandates a robust, reinforced binding of woven work around the hole, ensuring its exceptional durability and preventing any tearing during the high priest's sacred duties. This attention to detail, likened to the strength of an armor's opening, underscores the profound sacredness, functional integrity, and enduring perfection required for all elements involved in the worship and service of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of a larger, highly detailed section of Exodus (chapters [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25-31 "Exodus 25-31 - Instructions for the Tabernacle and Priesthood")) dedicated to the divine blueprint for the Tabernacle and its associated items, including the garments for the priesthood. Following the general command for "holy garments for glory and for beauty" for Aaron and his sons ([Exodus 28:2](/exodus/28-2 "Exodus 28:2 - Purpose of Priestly Garments")), the text systematically describes each component: the ephod (vv. 6-14), the breastplate (vv. 15-30), the robe of the ephod (vv. 31-35), the golden plate (vv. 36-38), and other garments. Exodus 28:32 focuses on a critical structural detail of the ephod itself—the sleeveless outer garment that served as the foundation for the breastplate and held the onyx shoulder stones. This specific instruction ensures the garment's practical functionality and symbolic integrity during the high priest's active service, highlighting God's meticulousness even in seemingly minor construction elements. The preceding verses describe the intricate weaving of the ephod and its shoulder pieces, while subsequent verses detail the pomegranates and bells on the robe of the ephod, demonstrating a continuous flow of precise divine specifications.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, priestly vestments often served to convey the status, authority, and even the identity of the deity being served. However, Israel's priestly garments were uniquely distinguished by their divine origin and meticulous specifications, emphasizing holiness, separation, and the mediatorial role of the high priest. The detailed instructions for the ephod, including the reinforced neck opening, reflect a profound practical concern for the garment's longevity and structural integrity during the physically demanding duties of tabernacle service. Priests engaged in various tasks, such as offering sacrifices, carrying sacred objects, and ministering before the altar, all of which could strain their vestments. A garment that could easily tear would not only be impractical but would also symbolically undermine the integrity and permanence required for their sacred office and the worship of a perfect God. The comparison to a "habergeon" (a type of armor) underscores the robust, protective, and enduring quality desired for this sacred garment, ensuring it could withstand repeated use without degradation, much like the enduring nature of the covenant God established with His people, as seen in passages like [Deuteronomy 7:9](/deuteronomy/7-9 "Deuteronomy 7:9 - God's Faithfulness to His Covenant").
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 28:32 contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Primarily, it highlights **Divine Meticulousness and Holiness**, demonstrating that God's commands extend to the minutest details of worship, reflecting His own perfect and holy character. This precision ensures that everything associated with His presence is set apart and without blemish, a theme consistently reinforced throughout the laws, such as the requirements for unblemished sacrifices in [Leviticus 22:21](/leviticus/22-21 "Leviticus 22:21 - Unblemished Sacrifices"). Secondly, it emphasizes the **Integrity and Enduring Nature of Sacred Service**. The untearable quality of the ephod's opening symbolizes the steadfastness and permanence required of the high priest's mediatorial role. The garment's durability mirrors the enduring covenant between God and Israel, where the high priest served as a perpetual intercessor. Lastly, the verse subtly points to **Symbolism of Wholeness and Perfection**, where the physical integrity of the garment prefigures the spiritual wholeness and moral purity demanded of those who approach God. The prohibition against tearing anticipates the broader principle that God's people, and especially their leaders, must be spiritually "unrent" and wholly devoted, a concept that finds echoes in the call for blamelessness for leaders in [1 Timothy 3:2](/1_timothy/3-2 "1 Timothy 3:2 - Requirements for Overseers").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hole (Hebrew, _peh'_ H6310):** While commonly meaning "mouth," in this context, _peh_ refers specifically to an "opening," "edge," or "collar." Its use here highlights the critical nature of this specific aperture in the garment. The term encompasses the idea of a boundary or an entry point, emphasizing that this opening, though functional, is also a highly significant part of the ephod, requiring special attention to its construction to maintain the garment's overall integrity. The precise specification of this "hole" underscores the divine concern for every detail of the sacred vestments.
* **Binding (Hebrew, _sâphâh'_ H8193):** Derived from a root suggesting "termination" or "boundary," _sâphâh_ literally means "lip" or "edge." By implication, it refers to a "margin," "border," or "band." In Exodus 28:32, "binding" signifies a reinforced edge or collar, a tightly woven border designed to strengthen the fabric around the opening. This term emphasizes the protective and reinforcing function, ensuring that the vulnerable edge of the garment is made robust and durable, preventing fraying or tearing. It speaks to the deliberate act of securing and fortifying a critical point of stress.
* **Habergeon (Hebrew, _tachărâʼ'_ H8473):** This term refers to a type of defensive armor, specifically a linen corslet or a padded jacket worn for protection. The comparison to a "habergeon" is crucial, as it immediately evokes images of strength, resilience, and resistance to damage. It elevates the functional requirement of the ephod's neck opening beyond mere durability to a standard of exceptional robustness, implying that the binding was not just to prevent ordinary wear but to withstand significant stress, much like armor protects against blows. This comparison communicates the extraordinary quality and integrity demanded for this sacred garment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And there shall be an hole in the top of it, in the midst thereof:"**: This initial clause precisely locates the opening for the high priest's head, specifying it as a central aperture at the very top of the ephod. This detail, though seemingly straightforward, is fundamental to the garment's wearability and proper positioning on the high priest, ensuring it sits correctly and comfortably during his sacred duties.
* **"it shall have a binding of woven work round about the hole of it,"**: This part describes the essential reinforcement around the neck opening. The "binding of woven work" (Hebrew, _sāphāh ma'aseh 'ōrēg_) indicates a strong, tightly woven border or collar. This binding was critical for strengthening the fabric at a point of high stress, actively preventing the natural fraying or tearing that would occur from repeated donning and removal, thus preserving the garment's sacred integrity.
* **"as it were the hole of an habergeon,"**: This is a powerful **simile**, directly comparing the strength and construction of the ephod's neck opening to that of a habergeon, a piece of armor. This comparison emphasizes the exceptional durability and tear-resistance required. It implies that the binding was not merely decorative but functionally robust, designed to withstand the rigors of the priest's active duties without compromise, ensuring the garment's enduring fitness for sacred service.
* **"that it be not rent."**: This concluding clause states the explicit purpose and divine mandate behind the reinforced binding: to prevent the ephod from tearing. This command underscores God's insistence on the garment's perfect and enduring condition. A torn garment would be unsuitable for holy service, reflecting the broader theological principle that all things dedicated to God must be complete, unblemished, and perpetually fit for their sacred purpose, mirroring God's own perfect and unblemished character.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Exodus 28:32 is **Simile**. The phrase "as it were the hole of an habergeon" directly compares the reinforced neck opening of the ephod to the robust, tear-resistant opening of a piece of armor. This vivid comparison effectively communicates the required strength, durability, and resilience of the garment, elevating its functional requirement to an exceptional standard. Beyond a mere technical description, this simile imbues the detail with a sense of enduring strength and protection, suggesting that the ephod, while a garment of "glory and beauty," was also constructed for rigorous and lasting service. Furthermore, **Symbolism** is deeply inherent in the meticulousness of these instructions. The integrity and unblemished nature of the ephod, meticulously ensured by this reinforced opening, symbolize the perfection and holiness required of the high priest in his mediatorial role and, by extension, the unblemished nature of the worship offered to God. The garment's resistance to tearing can also symbolize the steadfastness and enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel and the unwavering integrity expected of those who serve Him in His holy presence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The precise instructions for the ephod's construction, particularly the reinforcement of its neck opening, profoundly underscore God's meticulousness and His unwavering demand for excellence and integrity in all matters pertaining to His worship. This divine attention to detail signifies that even the seemingly minor aspects of sacred service are of immense significance in God's eyes, reflecting His own perfect character and the purity required in His holy presence. The durability built into the garment speaks to the enduring nature of the high priest's mediatorial role and the steadfastness expected of those who minister before God. It highlights a foundational theological principle that what is dedicated to God must be whole, unblemished, and designed for lasting service, mirroring the spiritual resilience and integrity believers are called to embody in their walk and worship. This emphasis on wholeness and perfection for the high priest's garments foreshadows the ultimate, unblemished sacrifice and perfect High Priesthood of Christ.

* [Leviticus 21:17-23](/leviticus/21-17-23 "Leviticus 21:17-23 - Priestly Blemishes Prohibited")
* [Malachi 1:6-8](/malachi/1-6-8 "Malachi 1:6-8 - Unacceptable Sacrifices")
* [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed command regarding the ephod's neck opening in Exodus 28:32 offers a profound and practical lesson for believers today. Just as the high priest's garment was meticulously designed for durability and to prevent tearing, symbolizing the integrity and steadfastness required for sacred service, so too are we called to cultivate spiritual resilience and wholeness in our walk with God. Our lives, presented as living sacrifices ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")), should reflect a divine standard of excellence, not merely in outward appearance but in the enduring strength of our character and faith. The "binding of woven work" around the ephod's opening can serve as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual disciplines, the supportive community of faith, and the unwavering truth of God's Word that collectively strengthen us at our most vulnerable points. These spiritual "bindings" prevent us from being "rent" or torn apart by the relentless pressures, temptations, and adversities of the world. This verse challenges us to thoughtfully consider what "bindings" we are actively cultivating and allowing to fortify our spiritual lives, ensuring we remain steadfast, unblemished, and wholly devoted in our service to the Lord, reflecting His own enduring faithfulness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or service do you feel most "vulnerable" or prone to being "torn" by external pressures or internal struggles?**
* **What "bindings of woven work"—spiritual disciplines, community, or biblical truths—are you actively employing to strengthen your spiritual integrity and resilience?**
* **How does God's meticulous attention to detail in the Old Testament priestly garments inform your understanding of His expectations for your own walk and service today?**
* **What does it mean for your faith to be "not rent" in the face of adversity, doubt, or the challenging realities of life?**

### FAQ
**What is an "habergeon" and why is it mentioned here?**

Answer: An "habergeon" (Hebrew, _taḥra'_) refers to a type of armor, typically a short, sleeveless coat of mail or a padded jacket worn for protection. It is mentioned in [Exodus 28:32](/exodus/28-32 "Exodus 28:32 - The Ephod's Neck Opening") to emphasize the exceptional strength and durability required for the neck opening of the high priest's ephod. Just as armor is designed to be robust and resistant to tearing or piercing, the ephod's binding was to be constructed with a reinforced edge ("binding of woven work") to ensure it would not be "rent" or torn during the priest's active duties. This comparison highlights God's demand for the highest quality and integrity in all items dedicated to His holy service, ensuring their fitness for sacred, enduring use.

**Why was this specific detail about the ephod's neck opening so important to God?**

Answer: This seemingly minor detail was crucial for several profound reasons. Firstly, it ensured the practical functionality and longevity of the ephod. The neck opening is a point of significant stress, and a tear there would render the garment unusable for sacred service, disrupting the divinely ordained worship. Secondly, it underscored the divine standard of perfection and wholeness required for everything associated with God's presence and worship. A torn garment would symbolize imperfection, unsuitability, or even defilement, which was strictly forbidden for the high priest and his sacred vestments. This meticulousness reflects God's holy character and His demand for unblemished service, as seen in the requirements for sacrifices in [Leviticus 22:21](/leviticus/22-21 "Leviticus 22:21 - Unblemished Sacrifices"). Finally, it highlights the symbolic importance of integrity and endurance in the high priest's mediatorial role before God, signifying that his service, like his garment, must be whole and uncompromised.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous design of the high priest's ephod, particularly the command for its untearable neck opening, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The ephod, a garment of "glory and beauty" ([Exodus 28:2](/exodus/28-2 "Exodus 28:2 - Purpose of Priestly Garments")) and a symbol of the high priest's integrity and mediatorial role, powerfully foreshadows Christ's own perfect and unblemished priesthood. Unlike the earthly high priest whose garments, despite their reinforced construction, were still subject to wear and tear, and who himself was subject to sin and death, Jesus is our eternal High Priest "who is holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens" ([Hebrews 7:26](/hebrews/7-26 "Hebrews 7:26 - Christ's Perfect Priesthood")). His "garment"—His perfect humanity and righteous life—was utterly without blemish or "rent," signifying His unbroken communion with God and His complete efficacy in atonement. The very fabric of His being and ministry was "not rent," symbolizing His perfect obedience, His steadfast endurance through suffering, and His unassailable integrity, which enabled Him to offer Himself as the one, perfect, and eternal sacrifice for sins. Through His perfect sacrifice, He entered "once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption" ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Eternal Redemption")). His perfect, unblemished, and enduring priesthood means that believers now have continuous, confident access to God, not through a temporary, tearable garment, but through the eternal and unshakeable righteousness of Christ Himself, who has consecrated a new and living way for us ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Confidence to Enter the Holy Place")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Job 41:26

The sword of him that layeth at him cannot hold: the spear, the dart, nor the habergeon.

Nehemiah 4:16

¶ And it came to pass from that time forth, [that] the half of my servants wrought in the work, and the other half of them held both the spears, the shields, and the bows, and the habergeons; and the rulers [were] behind all the house of Judah.

John 19:23

Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also [his] coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout.

John 19:24

They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did.

2 Chronicles 26:14

And Uzziah prepared for them throughout all the host shields, and spears, and helmets, and habergeons, and bows, and slings [to cast] stones.

Exodus 39:28

And a mitre [of] fine linen, and goodly bonnets [of] fine linen, and linen breeches [of] fine twined linen,

Ephesians 4:3

Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.