Exodus 29:5

KJV

And thou shalt take the garments, and put upon Aaron the coat, and the robe of the ephod, and the ephod, and the breastplate, and gird him with the curious girdle of the ephod:

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou shalt take {H3947} the garments {H899}, and put {H3847} upon Aaron {H175} the coat {H3801}, and the robe {H4598} of the ephod {H646}, and the ephod {H646}, and the breastplate {H2833}, and gird {H640} him with the curious girdle {H2805} of the ephod {H646}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Take the garments, and put on Aharon the tunic, the robe for the ritual vest, the vest itself, and the breastplate. Fasten the vest on him with its belt.

Berean Standard Bible

Take the garments and clothe Aaron with the tunic, the robe of the ephod, the ephod itself, and the breastplate. Fasten the ephod on him with its woven waistband.

American Standard Version

And thou shalt take the garments, and put upon Aaron the coat, and the robe of the ephod, and the ephod, and the breastplate, and gird him with the skilfully woven band of the ephod;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 29:5 describes a foundational step in the consecration of Aaron as Israel's first High Priest: his investiture with the divinely prescribed sacred vestments. This verse, part of God's meticulous instructions for establishing a holy priesthood, details the precise order in which specific garments—the coat, the robe of the ephod, the ephod itself, and the breastplate—were to be placed upon Aaron, culminating in his being girded with the curious girdle of the ephod. This act was far more than a ceremonial dressing; it was a profound visual and spiritual declaration of Aaron's divine appointment, his separation unto God, and his readiness to mediate between a holy God and His covenant people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within a larger block of divine instruction concerning the Tabernacle and its worship, specifically following the detailed architectural plans for the sanctuary itself. Chapters [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments") and [Exodus 29](/exodus/29 "Exodus 29 - Consecration of Priests") form a cohesive unit dedicated to the priesthood, outlining the design of the sacred garments and the elaborate seven-day ordination ritual for Aaron and his sons. The preceding chapter, [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Design of Priestly Garments"), provides the divine blueprints for each piece of attire mentioned in verse 5, emphasizing their precise construction and symbolic significance. Following this investiture, the remainder of [Exodus 29](/exodus/29 "Exodus 29 - Ordination Sacrifices") details the sacrifices and anointing rituals that complete the consecration, ensuring that every aspect of the priesthood was divinely ordained and executed with utmost precision, establishing a perpetual and holy line of mediators for Israel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, priestly attire often conveyed status, function, and connection to deity. However, Israel's priestly garments, as described in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Holy Garments for Aaron"), stood apart due to their divine origin and specific purpose. Unlike pagan priests who might wear garments to manipulate or appease their gods, Aaron's vestments were gifts from God, designed to signify holiness, separation, and the unique privilege of approaching the Lord on behalf of the people. The wilderness setting, where the Tabernacle was mobile, underscored the necessity of a portable system of worship and a designated, consecrated priesthood. The act of "putting on" these garments was a public declaration of Aaron's transition from an ordinary Levite to the High Priest, distinguished from the general populace and even from other priests by the unique elements of his attire, such as the ephod and breastplate. This ritual was foundational for the establishment of a theocratic nation where God's presence would dwell among His people, requiring a holy mediator.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 29:5 significantly contributes to several major theological and narrative themes within the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Primarily, it underscores the theme of **Holiness and Separation**, demonstrating that God's presence demands a consecrated space and consecrated personnel. The meticulous design and application of the garments highlight the **Divine Authority and Sovereignty** in establishing worship, emphasizing that access to God is on His terms, not human invention. The investiture also solidifies the theme of **Mediation**, as Aaron, clothed in these specific garments, is set apart to represent the people before God and God to the people. Furthermore, the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle and priesthood (as seen in [Exodus 22:31](/exodus/22-31 "Exodus 22:31 - Call to Holiness") and [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God's Dwelling Among Israel")) illustrate God's desire for **Presence and Relationship** with His people, a relationship facilitated by a divinely appointed and properly equipped priesthood.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **take (Hebrew, _lâqach'_):** This verb signifies "to receive," "to acquire," or "to seize." In the context of Moses taking the garments, it emphasizes his active role as God's agent in the ordination process. It underscores that the investiture was not a passive event but a deliberate, divinely commanded action, highlighting the authority and intentionality behind the establishment of the priesthood.
* **put (Hebrew, _lâbash'_):** Meaning "to wrap around," "to clothe," or "to put on a garment," this verb describes the act of dressing Aaron. It signifies the physical act of investiture, symbolizing the spiritual endowment and equipping for sacred office. This action visually sets Aaron apart, marking his transition from an ordinary man to the consecrated High Priest, clothed with the authority and responsibility of his divine appointment.
* **gird (Hebrew, _ʼâphad'_):** Derived from the word for "ephod," this verb specifically means "to gird on the ephod." It indicates the final, securing action of fastening the ephod and its accompanying breastplate firmly in place with the curious girdle. This act symbolizes Aaron being fully prepared, secured, and bound to his sacred duties, ready for active service in the Tabernacle.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou shalt take the garments":** This opening command is directed to Moses, emphasizing his unique role as the divine intermediary in the ordination process. It highlights that the investiture of Aaron was not a self-appointment but a direct act commanded by God, signifying the divine authority behind the priesthood.
* **"and put upon Aaron the coat":** The "coat" (Hebrew, _kᵉthôneth_) was the innermost garment, a finely woven linen tunic worn by all priests, extending to the ankles. Its purity underscored the foundational requirement of holiness for anyone serving in God's presence.
* **"and the robe of the ephod":** This was a seamless, all-blue outer robe (Hebrew, _mᵉʻîyl_) worn over the coat. Its hem was adorned with alternating golden bells and pomegranates, symbolizing the High Priest's audible presence before God and the fruitfulness of his ministry.
* **"and the ephod":** The ephod was a distinctive, apron-like garment, richly embroidered with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet threads, and fine twined linen. It was a primary identifying mark of the High Priest, featuring two onyx stones on its shoulder pieces, engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying Aaron's role in bearing the people before God.
* **"and the breastplate":** Also known as the "breastplate of judgment" (Hebrew, _chôshen mishpat_), this square pouch was worn over the ephod. It contained twelve precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the tribes, further emphasizing the High Priest's role as the representative of all Israel. It also held the Urim and Thummim, used for divine revelation and judgment.
* **"and gird him with the curious girdle of the ephod":** This final action secured the ephod and breastplate firmly in place. The "curious girdle" (Hebrew, _chêsheb ʼêphôwd_) was intricately woven from the same precious materials as the ephod, signifying the completeness and secure fastening of the High Priest's sacred office, ensuring his readiness for service.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent literary devices. **Symbolism** is paramount, as each garment is not merely functional but imbued with profound spiritual meaning, representing holiness, mediation, and the High Priest's role as the bearer of Israel before God. The meticulous **detail** and **enumeration** of each garment (coat, robe, ephod, breastplate, girdle) underscore the divine precision and the absolute necessity of adhering to God's exact specifications for worship, highlighting His holiness and the seriousness of approaching Him. The act of "putting upon" and "girding" also functions as a form of **ritualistic action**, where the physical dressing signifies a spiritual transformation and equipping for sacred office. Furthermore, the description of the "curious girdle" highlights **craftsmanship** and **beauty**, reflecting the glory and majesty of the God whom Aaron served, emphasizing that all aspects of His worship must be of the highest quality and divine design.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 29:5 vividly illustrates God's meticulous care in establishing a system for His people to approach Him, emphasizing the paramount importance of holiness, divine appointment, and proper mediation. The High Priest's garments were not merely ceremonial; they were tangible expressions of his consecrated status and his weighty responsibility to represent a sinful people before a holy God. This investiture foreshadows the necessary divine provision for humanity's access to God, a theme that reverberates throughout the biblical narrative, culminating in the perfect High Priest. The Old Testament priesthood, with its elaborate rituals and specific attire, serves as a profound type, pointing forward to a greater reality.

* [Exodus 28:2](/exodus/28-2 "Exodus 28:2 - Purpose of Holy Garments")
* [Leviticus 8:7-9](/leviticus/8-7-9 "Leviticus 8:7-9 - Aaron's Investiture")
* [Hebrews 9:1-5](/hebrew/9-1-5 "Hebrews 9:1-5 - Description of the Earthly Sanctuary")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account of Aaron's investiture in Exodus 29:5 offers rich insights for contemporary believers. While we no longer wear literal priestly garments, the principles they embody remain eternally relevant. This passage reminds us that approaching a holy God requires intentional preparation, reverence, and a divinely appointed mediator. For believers today, this translates into a call to spiritual readiness and a life consecrated to God. We are called to "put on" the spiritual garments of righteousness, holiness, and truth, preparing ourselves inwardly for service and witness. Just as Aaron was set apart for a unique role, every believer is now part of a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), called to offer spiritual sacrifices and proclaim the excellencies of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. Our "garments" are no longer external adornments but the character of Christ formed within us, enabling us to represent Him faithfully in a broken world. The meticulous nature of God's instructions also calls us to a life of intentionality and obedience, recognizing that every detail of our walk with Him matters.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of Aaron's investiture reveal God's character and His expectations for worship and service?**
* **In what ways can believers today "put on" spiritual garments that prepare them for service and witness in their daily lives, reflecting Christ's character?**
* **Considering our identity as a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), how should the concept of holiness and divine appointment shape our approach to ministry, relationships, and daily living?**

### FAQ

**Why were these specific garments necessary for Aaron?**

Answer: The garments were necessary for several crucial reasons. Firstly, they signified Aaron's unique divine appointment and authority as High Priest, distinguishing him from all others. Secondly, they were "holy garments" ([Exodus 28:2](/exodus/28-2 "Exodus 28:2 - Holy Garments for Glory and Beauty")), symbolizing the purity and sacredness required for anyone who would mediate between a holy God and His people. They also served a functional purpose, enabling Aaron to "bear the judgment of the children of Israel upon his heart" ([Exodus 28:30](/exodus/28-30 "Exodus 28:30 - The Urim and Thummim")) as he entered the Tabernacle, reminding him and the people of his representative role and the weight of his intercession.

**What was the significance of the "curious girdle of the ephod"?**

Answer: The "curious girdle" (Hebrew, _chêsheb_) was an intricately woven band crafted from the same precious materials as the ephod itself. Its significance lay in its dual role: it was both functional and symbolic. Functionally, it secured the ephod and breastplate firmly to Aaron, ensuring that these vital components of his attire remained in place during his sacred duties. Symbolically, its "curious" or "skillful" craftsmanship underscored the divine attention to detail in every aspect of Tabernacle worship, emphasizing the perfection and sacredness required for God's service. It represented the secure binding of Aaron to his holy office and the meticulous preparation necessary for approaching God.

**Did other ancient cultures have similar priestly attire, and how did Aaron's differ?**

Answer: Yes, many ancient Near Eastern cultures had distinctive attire for their priests, often elaborate and symbolic of their gods or functions. However, Aaron's priestly garments differed fundamentally in their origin and purpose. Unlike pagan priestly vestments, which were often humanly devised or inspired by local deities, Aaron's garments were meticulously designed and commanded by God Himself, as detailed in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Design of Priestly Garments"). This divine prescription ensured their holiness, their specific symbolic meaning (e.g., bearing the tribes of Israel, representing glory and beauty), and their role in a covenant relationship with the one true God, rather than in idolatrous practices. They were not for manipulating a deity but for facilitating holy communion with the Lord.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 29:5, with its detailed account of Aaron's investiture, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ. Aaron's garments, though glorious and holy, were but a shadow of the perfect "garments" worn by Christ. He did not need man-made vestments of gold and linen, for His own inherent righteousness, blamelessness, and divine glory are His eternal attire ([Hebrews 7:26](/hebrews/7-26 "Hebrews 7:26 - Jesus, a Holy, Blameless High Priest")). While Aaron was girded for service in an earthly tabernacle, Jesus was "girded" with divine authority and power to accomplish eternal redemption. He entered not an earthly sanctuary, but the heavenly one, "not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption" ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). The temporary nature of Aaron's priesthood and the need for his repeated sacrifices highlight the insufficiency of the Old Covenant system, pointing to the once-for-all sacrifice and perpetual intercession of Christ ([Hebrews 7:27](/hebrews/7-27 "Hebrews 7:27 - Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice")). Jesus is our great High Priest, who "has passed through the heavens" ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")), perfectly fulfilling all that Aaron's investiture symbolized and providing direct, unhindered access to the Father for all who believe, having "no need to offer sacrifices daily" ([Hebrews 7:27](/hebrews/7-27 "Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice")).

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

Leviticus 8:7

And he put upon him the coat, and girded him with the girdle, and clothed him with the robe, and put the ephod upon him, and he girded him with the curious girdle of the ephod, and bound [it] unto him therewith.

Leviticus 8:8

And he put the breastplate upon him: also he put in the breastplate the Urim and the Thummim.

Exodus 28:2

And thou shalt make holy garments for Aaron thy brother for glory and for beauty.

Exodus 28:8

And the curious girdle of the ephod, which [is] upon it, shall be of the same, according to the work thereof; [even of] gold, [of] blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen.