Exodus 28:36

And thou shalt make a plate [of] pure gold, and grave upon it, [like] the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD.

And thou shalt make {H6213} a plate {H6731} of pure {H2889} gold {H2091}, and grave {H6605} upon it, like the engravings {H6603} of a signet {H2368}, HOLINESS {H6944} TO THE LORD {H3068}.

"You are to make an ornament of pure gold and engrave on it as on a seal, 'Set apart for ADONAI.'

You are to make a plate of pure gold and engrave on it as on a seal: HOLY TO THE LORD.

And thou shalt make a plate of pure gold, and grave upon it, like the engravings of a signet, HOLY TO JEHOVAH.

Commentary

Exodus 28:36 details a crucial element of the High Priest's sacred attire: a golden plate inscribed with the profound declaration, "HOLINESS TO THE LORD." This verse is part of God's meticulous instructions to Moses for the construction of the tabernacle and the garments for Aaron and his sons, establishing a system for worship and interaction with a holy God.

Context

This verse describes the creation of the tzitz, a plate of pure gold that was to be worn on the turban (or mitre) of the High Priest, Aaron, directly on his forehead. This was not merely an ornament but a vital component of the sacred garments mandated for the High Priest. The purpose of this plate, as detailed in Exodus 28:38, was for Aaron to "bear the iniquity of the holy things, which the children of Israel shall hallow in all their holy gifts," ensuring their offerings were acceptable to the LORD.

Key Themes

  • Holiness of God: The inscription "HOLINESS TO THE LORD" serves as a constant reminder of God's absolute purity and separation from sin. It underscores the sacredness of His presence and the necessity of approaching Him with reverence and purity.
  • Consecration of the Priesthood: The plate marked Aaron, the High Priest, as uniquely set apart and consecrated for God's service. His entire being, including his thoughts and mind (represented by the forehead), was dedicated to Yahweh.
  • Representation and Atonement: The High Priest acted as the representative of the entire Israelite nation before God. The inscription signified that he carried the holiness required for the people's offerings to be acceptable, even covering their unintentional errors in worship. It highlighted the need for mediation to bridge the gap between sinful humanity and a holy God.
  • Purity and Perfection: The "pure gold" signifies the unblemished and perfect nature required in God's service and presence.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase for "HOLINESS TO THE LORD" is Kodesh l'YHWH (קֹד֢שׁ ΧœΦ·Χ™Χ”Χ•ΦΈΧ”). The word kodesh (holiness) implies being "set apart," distinct, consecrated, or sacred. It's not merely moral purity, but a designation for something or someone designated exclusively for God's use and glory. The name YHWH (LORD) is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His personal relationship with Israel and His supreme authority.

Practical Application

While the Levitical priesthood and its specific garments are no longer in effect, the principles behind Exodus 28:36 hold profound relevance for believers today:

  • Christ, Our High Priest: Jesus Christ perfectly fulfills the role of the High Priest, being inherently holy and without sin. He is the ultimate Great High Priest who, through His sacrifice, has opened a new and living way to God's presence, eternally bearing away our iniquity.
  • A Call to Personal Holiness: As New Covenant believers, we are called to be a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9). The inscription "HOLINESS TO THE LORD" serves as a spiritual emblem for every Christian. We are called to live lives set apart for God's purposes, reflecting His character and consecrating our thoughts, words, and actions to Him.
  • Mindset of Dedication: Just as the plate was on the High Priest's forehead, symbolizing his thoughts and intentions, believers are called to have a renewed mind dedicated to God's will (Romans 12:2). Our inner being should be marked by "HOLINESS TO THE LORD."
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Zechariah 14:20

    In that day shall there be upon the bells of the horses, HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD; and the pots in the LORD'S house shall be like the bowls before the altar.

  • Leviticus 8:9

    And he put the mitre upon his head; also upon the mitre, [even] upon his forefront, did he put the golden plate, the holy crown; as the LORD commanded Moses.

  • Exodus 39:30

    And they made the plate of the holy crown [of] pure gold, and wrote upon it a writing, [like to] the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD.

  • Leviticus 10:3

    ΒΆ Then Moses said unto Aaron, This [is it] that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace.

  • 1 Peter 1:15

    But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;

  • 1 Peter 1:16

    Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

  • 1 Peter 2:9

    But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: