Exodus 31:10

KJV

And the cloths of service, and the holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priest's office,

KJV (with Strong's)

And the cloths {H899} of service {H8278}, and the holy {H6944} garments {H899} for Aaron {H175} the priest {H3548}, and the garments {H899} of his sons {H1121}, to minister in the priest's office {H3547},

Complete Jewish Bible

the garments for officiating, the holy garments for Aharon the cohen and the garments for his sons, so that they can serve in the office of cohen,

Berean Standard Bible

as well as the woven garments, both the holy garments for Aaron the priest and the garments for his sons to serve as priests,

American Standard Version

and the finely wrought garments, and the holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priest’s office,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 31:10 specifies God's divine mandate for the creation of the sacred vestments for the Levitical priesthood, encompassing both the practical "cloths of service" and the ornate "holy garments" designated for Aaron and his sons. This verse is a crucial component of the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle, underscoring the absolute necessity of divinely prescribed attire for those who would minister in God's presence, thereby emphasizing the sanctity, order, and consecrated nature required for all aspects of worship to align with His perfect design.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is intricately woven into the broader narrative of God's meticulous instructions for the Tabernacle and its service, detailed from [Exodus 25](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle and its Furnishings") through [Exodus 31](/exodus/31 "Exodus 31 - Bezalel, Aholiab, and the Sabbath Command"). Having just appointed and empowered Bezalel and Aholiab with divine skill and wisdom for the construction (`Exodus 31:1-6`), the Lord proceeds to reiterate the specific items they are to craft. [Exodus 31:10](/exodus/31-10 "Exodus 31:10 - Priestly Garments for Service") functions as a vital part of this comprehensive inventory, ensuring that not only the sacred dwelling itself but also the personnel and their attire for its holy functions are precisely as God ordained. It follows the foundational command for Israel to "make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them" (`Exodus 25:8`) and directly precedes the solemn command regarding Sabbath observance (`Exodus 31:12-17`), which serves as a perpetual sign of the covenant between God and His people, reinforcing the holiness inherent in the entire Tabernacle enterprise.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, elaborate religious rituals and distinct priestly attire were common, signifying the mediating role and elevated status of priests. However, Israel's priesthood, divinely instituted through Moses, stood apart due to its unique appointment by a singular, holy God. At this juncture, Israel was a newly liberated, nomadic people, learning to live as God's covenant nation. The Tabernacle was to be the epicenter of their worship and the tangible symbol of God's presence among them. The garments described in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments") and referenced here were not mere uniforms but sacred vestments, imbued with profound symbolic meaning representing purity, consecration, and the glory of God. They visually distinguished the priests, marking them as set apart for unique service in a culture where appearance often communicated status and function. The meticulous detail in these instructions reflects God's profound desire for order, holiness, and distinction in the worship of a holy God, setting Israel's practices apart from the often chaotic and idolatrous rituals of surrounding nations.

* **Key Themes:** [Exodus 31:10](/exodus/31-10 "Exodus 31:10 - Priestly Garments for Service") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of **God's Holiness and Inaccessibility**, emphasizing that a holy God can only be approached on His terms, through divinely appointed means and persons. The garments themselves embody the theme of **Consecration and Separation**, visually marking the priests as set apart for sacred service, distinct from the common people. This highlights the concept of a **Mediatorial Priesthood**, where specific individuals are divinely authorized to facilitate communion between God and humanity. Furthermore, the detailed instructions underscore the theme of **Divine Order and Precision**, demonstrating God's meticulous attention to every aspect of worship and His desire for beauty and glory in His sanctuary, as seen throughout the Tabernacle blueprints in [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25-31 - Tabernacle Instructions").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Cloths (Hebrew, _beged'_):** From H899, this word refers to a covering or clothing. In the context of [Exodus 31:10](/exodus/31-10 "Exodus 31:10 - Priestly Garments for Service"), it denotes the various garments, both the "cloths of service" and the "holy garments," that served as the attire for the priests. This term encompasses the general concept of clothing that covers and distinguishes, in this case, marking the wearers as set apart for sacred duties.
* **Holy (Hebrew, _qôdesh'_):** From H6944, this term signifies that which is "set apart," "consecrated," or "hallowed" for God's exclusive use. When applied to the garments, it means they were not ordinary attire but were dedicated solely for sacred purposes within the Tabernacle, reflecting the holiness of God whom the priests served and the sacred space in which they ministered.
* **Minister in the priest's office (Hebrew, _kâhan'_):** From H3547, this primitive root means to mediate in religious services or to officiate as a priest. It implies a dedicated, active service in the presence of a superior, in this case, God Himself. The garments were specifically designed to enable and signify this sacred act of serving God and facilitating the worship and atonement of the people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the cloths of service":** This clause introduces a specific category of garments, distinct from the more ceremonial "holy garments." These were likely utilitarian coverings or wrappings used by the priests or Levites for the careful handling, covering, and transporting of the sacred Tabernacle furnishings during Israel's wilderness journeys. Their inclusion here emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's instructions, covering every aspect of priestly duty, from the most ceremonial to the most practical and logistical, all requiring appropriate, consecrated attire.
* **"and the holy garments for Aaron the priest":** This phrase refers to the unique and highly detailed vestments prescribed specifically for Aaron, the High Priest. These included the ephod, the breastplate with the Urim and Thummim, the robe, the woven tunic, the turban, and the sash, as meticulously described in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments"). These garments were not merely decorative but were rich in symbolism, representing Aaron's mediatorial role, the tribes of Israel, and the glory of God. They were essential for him to approach God's holy presence without incurring divine wrath, signifying his unique position as the chief mediator.
* **"and the garments of his sons":** This part of the verse specifies the simpler, yet still consecrated, garments worn by Aaron's sons, who served as ordinary priests. These included tunics, sashes, and caps, as outlined in [Exodus 28:40](/exodus/28-40 "Exodus 28:40 - Garments for Aaron's Sons"). While less ornate than the High Priest's attire, they nevertheless marked the sons as consecrated for service and distinguished them from the common people. Their inclusion signifies the establishment of a hereditary priesthood, ensuring the continuity of sacred service and adherence to divine protocol.
* **"to minister in the priest's office":** This final clause articulates the overarching purpose of all these prescribed garments. They were not intended for personal adornment or secular use but were exclusively designated for the performance of priestly duties. These duties encompassed offering sacrifices, burning incense, maintaining the Tabernacle, teaching the Law, and interceding for the people. The garments were a visible sign of their divine appointment and the solemnity of their sacred function, emphasizing that approaching a holy God required specific preparation, authorization, and a visible commitment to holiness.

#### Literary Devices
[Exodus 31:10](/exodus/31-10 "Exodus 31:10 - Priestly Garments for Service") employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. **Emphasis** is achieved through the meticulous enumeration of the different types of garments—"cloths of service," "holy garments for Aaron," and "garments of his sons"—highlighting the divine precision and the importance God places on every detail of Tabernacle service. The recurring mention of "garments" (Hebrew: _beged_) serves as a form of **Repetition**, reinforcing the centrality of appropriate attire to the priestly office. The phrase "holy garments" functions as powerful **Symbolism**, representing the consecrated status of the priests and the sacredness of their office. These garments are not merely clothing but are outward manifestations of an inward state of being set apart for God's exclusive use. Furthermore, the mention of "cloths of service" alongside "holy garments" demonstrates **Distinction** and **Classification**, indicating different functions and levels of holiness or practical use within the priestly duties. The entire verse functions as a form of **Metonymy**, where the garments stand for the office and the individuals who hold it, underscoring that the priestly role is defined by its divine commission and the sacred attire that accompanies it.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[Exodus 31:10](/exodus/31-10 "Exodus 31:10 - Priestly Garments for Service"), in its detailed enumeration of priestly garments, profoundly underscores God's absolute holiness and His meticulous demand for order and reverence in worship. The separation and consecration of the priests through their unique attire reflect the fundamental theological truth that a holy God cannot be approached casually or on human terms; divine provision and protocol are always necessary. These garments were not merely functional but were rich with symbolic meaning, pointing to the glory and beauty of God, and the necessity of purity for those who would mediate between God and humanity. This passage establishes the foundational principle that sacred service requires divine authorization, preparation, and a visible commitment to holiness, foreshadowing the ultimate perfect High Priest who would perfectly fulfill all these requirements.

* [Exodus 28:2](/exodus/28-2 "Exodus 28:2 - Holy Garments for Aaron's Glory and Beauty")
* [Leviticus 8:7-9](/leviticus/8-7 "Leviticus 8:7-9 - Aaron's Consecration and Vesting Ceremony")
* [Hebrews 9:1-10](/hebrews/9-10 "Hebrews 9:1-10 - The Earthly Sanctuary and Its Imperfect Service")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the physical Tabernacle and its specific priestly garments are no longer central to Christian worship, the enduring principles embedded in [Exodus 31:10](/exodus/31-10 "Exodus 31:10 - Priestly Garments for Service") remain profoundly relevant for believers today. This verse reminds us that God is a God of order, beauty, and holiness, who desires our worship to be marked by reverence and intentionality. As New Testament believers, we are called a "royal priesthood" (`1 Peter 2:9`), not to offer animal sacrifices, but to offer spiritual sacrifices of praise, service, and consecrated lives (`Romans 12:1`). Our "garments" are now spiritual: the righteousness of Christ, humility, integrity, and the "armor of God" (`Ephesians 6:11`). The meticulous care God commanded for the ancient priests' attire should inspire us to live lives that are set apart for Him, reflecting His character in our thoughts, words, and deeds. It calls us to approach God in worship and service with a deep sense of reverence, understanding that we are privileged to draw near to His holy presence, not by our own merit, but through the perfect mediation of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of God's instructions for the priestly garments inform our understanding of God's character and His expectations for worship?**
* **In what ways do believers today, as a "royal priesthood," metaphorically "put on" holy garments for service, and what does this "spiritual attire" look like in daily life?**
* **What does "ministering in the priest's office" look like for a New Testament believer in their daily life and service to God and others, and how can we do so with greater reverence and intentionality?**

### FAQ
**What was the difference between "cloths of service" and "holy garments"?**

Answer: The "holy garments" (Hebrew: _bigdei ha-kodesh_) primarily referred to the elaborate and symbolic vestments worn by Aaron, the High Priest, and his sons (the ordinary priests) during their regular duties within the Tabernacle, such as offering sacrifices, burning incense, and ministering before the altar. These garments, detailed in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments"), were designed for "glory and for beauty" and signified their consecrated status and mediatorial role. The "cloths of service" (Hebrew: _bigdei ha-serad_), on the other hand, were a distinct set of garments or coverings specifically used when the Tabernacle was disassembled for transport. As described in [Numbers 4](/numbers/4 "Numbers 4 - Duties of the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites"), these were used by the Kohathites, a Levitical family, to cover and carry the most holy articles (like the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, and the Lampstand) during the Israelites' wilderness journeys. Thus, "holy garments" were for regular priestly ministration, while "cloths of service" were for the sacred task of transporting the holy furnishings of the Tabernacle.

**Why were these garments so important to God?**

Answer: These garments were of paramount importance to God for several profound reasons. First, they underscored His absolute **holiness** and the necessity of purity and consecration for anyone approaching His presence. The garments visually represented the "set-apart" nature of the priests. Second, they established **divine order** and authority within the Tabernacle service; nothing was left to human discretion. The specific attire ensured that the priests ministered according to God's precise instructions, maintaining the sanctity of the divine dwelling. Third, they served as **visual symbols** of the priestly office itself, distinguishing the priests from the common people and reminding both the priests and the congregation of the solemnity and dignity of their mediatorial role. Finally, these garments, particularly the High Priest's, were filled with rich **symbolism** (e.g., the names of the tribes on the breastplate, the bells on the robe), which pointed to God's covenant relationship with Israel and foreshadowed greater spiritual realities to come, ultimately culminating in Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous instructions for the priestly garments in [Exodus 31:10](/exodus/31-10 "Exodus 31:10 - Priestly Garments for Service") find their ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament priests, clothed in their "holy garments," served as types and shadows, imperfectly mediating between a holy God and sinful humanity. Their garments, though divinely appointed, were merely external coverings for fallible men who themselves needed atonement. Jesus, however, is the **perfect High Priest** (`Hebrews 4:14`), who did not need to be clothed in symbolic garments because His very being was (and is) righteousness and holiness. He entered the true, heavenly sanctuary, not with the blood of animals (`Hebrews 9:12`), but with His own perfect blood, securing an eternal redemption. His "garment" was His sinless life and His perfect obedience to the Father (`2 Corinthians 5:21`). Through His once-for-all sacrifice on the cross (`Hebrews 7:27`), He perfectly fulfilled all that the Tabernacle service and the priestly garments foreshadowed. Now, through faith in Him, believers are not merely covered by symbolic robes but are **clothed in His righteousness** (`Isaiah 61:10`, `Revelation 19:8`), granting them direct, unhindered access to God's presence (`Hebrews 10:19-22`). The temporary, physical garments of the Old Covenant priests point to the eternal, spiritual reality of Christ, who is our true and lasting High Priest, perfectly mediating our relationship with God forever.

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 8:13

And Moses brought Aaron's sons, and put coats upon them, and girded them with girdles, and put bonnets upon them; as the LORD commanded Moses.

Exodus 28:1

¶ And take thou unto thee Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him, from among the children of Israel, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office, [even] Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron's sons.

Exodus 28:43

And they shall be upon Aaron, and upon his sons, when they come in unto the tabernacle of the congregation, or when they come near unto the altar to minister in the holy [place]; that they bear not iniquity, and die: [it shall be] a statute for ever unto him and his seed after him.

Numbers 4:5

And when the camp setteth forward, Aaron shall come, and his sons, and they shall take down the covering vail, and cover the ark of testimony with it:

Numbers 4:14

And they shall put upon it all the vessels thereof, wherewith they minister about it, [even] the censers, the fleshhooks, and the shovels, and the basons, all the vessels of the altar; and they shall spread upon it a covering of badgers' skins, and put to the staves of it.

Exodus 39:1

¶ And of the blue, and purple, and scarlet, they made cloths of service, to do service in the holy [place], and made the holy garments for Aaron; as the LORD commanded Moses.

Exodus 39:43

And Moses did look upon all the work, and, behold, they had done it as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it: and Moses blessed them.