Exodus 39:2

And he made the ephod [of] gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen.

And he made {H6213} the ephod {H646} of gold {H2091}, blue {H8504}, and purple {H713}, and scarlet {H8438}{H8144}, and fine twined {H7806} linen {H8336}.

He made the ritual vest of gold, of blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and of finely woven linen.

Bezalel made the ephod of finely spun linen embroidered with gold, and with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn.

And he made the ephod of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen.

Commentary

Exodus 39:2 details the construction of the ephod, a significant priestly garment, specifying the materials used: gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen. This verse highlights the meticulous adherence to God's precise instructions for the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings.

Context

This verse is part of the larger narrative in Exodus, which describes the fulfillment of God's commands regarding the construction of the Tabernacle and the garments for the priests. Chapters 25-31 of Exodus outline the divine blueprint, and chapters 35-40 detail the execution of these plans by skilled craftsmen like Bezalel and Aholiab, who were divinely inspired for the work (Exodus 35:30-35). The ephod was a central piece of the high priest's attire, worn over the blue robe, and was integral to his service before the Lord.

Key Themes

  • Divine Specification and Obedience: The detailed list of materials underscores God's precise requirements for worship. The Israelites' faithful execution of these commands demonstrates their obedience and reverence for His holiness.
  • Holiness and Sacred Purpose: The ephod was not merely clothing but a sacred vestment, symbolizing the high priest's consecrated role in mediating between God and His people. Its construction from precious and specific materials emphasized the holiness of the Tabernacle service.
  • Symbolism of Materials and Colors:
    • Gold: Represents divinity, purity, and enduring value, befitting the presence of God.
    • Blue: Often symbolizes heaven, the divine, and God's commandments, reminding the priest of his heavenly calling.
    • Purple: Signifies royalty, majesty, and kingship, pointing to God's supreme authority.
    • Scarlet: Traditionally associated with life, blood, and atonement, prefiguring the sacrificial system and ultimately the blood of Christ.
    • Fine Twined Linen: Represents purity, righteousness, and the clean acts of the saints.

Linguistic Insights

The term "ephod" (Hebrew: ’ephōd) refers to a special priestly garment, often described as a sleeveless vest or apron, worn by the high priest over his robe. It was intricately woven, and on its shoulder pieces were two onyx stones engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel, and on its front, the breastplate with the Urim and Thummim, used for discerning God's will (Exodus 28:6-12).

Practical Application

While we no longer construct physical ephods or serve in a Levitical priesthood, the principles embedded in Exodus 39:2 remain relevant. It reminds us of the importance of offering our best in worship and service to God, not just in material things but in our attitude and actions. The meticulous detail required for the ephod also points to the perfection and precision of God's plan of salvation, culminating in Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. The rich symbolism of the colors and materials can prompt us to reflect on Christ's divine nature (gold), His heavenly origin (blue), His kingship (purple), and His atoning sacrifice (scarlet), all woven together in His perfect righteousness (fine linen).

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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

  • Exodus 28:6

    ΒΆ And they shall make the ephod [of] gold, [of] blue, and [of] purple, [of] scarlet, and fine twined linen, with cunning work.

  • Exodus 28:12

    And thou shalt put the two stones upon the shoulders of the ephod [for] stones of memorial unto the children of Israel: and Aaron shall bear their names before the LORD upon his two shoulders for a memorial.

  • 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.

  • Exodus 25:7

    Onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod, and in the breastplate.
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