Exodus 39:22

KJV

And he made the robe of the ephod [of] woven work, all [of] blue.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he made {H6213} the robe {H4598} of the ephod {H646} of woven {H707} work {H4639}, all {H3632} of blue {H8504}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He made the robe for the ritual vest; it was woven entirely of blue,

Berean Standard Bible

They made the robe of the ephod entirely of blue cloth, the work of a weaver,

American Standard Version

And he made the robe of the ephod of woven work, all of blue;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 39:22 meticulously describes the crafting of the high priest's robe of the ephod, specifying its material as "woven work" and its singular color as "all of blue." This verse forms part of the concluding chapters of Exodus, which narrate the faithful and precise execution of God's divine instructions for the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, particularly the priestly garments. It underscores the profound importance of obedience, excellence, and symbolic representation in worship, preparing for the inauguration of the Tabernacle's service and the establishment of Israel's covenant relationship with God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - Construction of Priestly Garments and Tabernacle"), a chapter that details the meticulous fabrication of the priestly vestments, directly mirroring the divine blueprint given earlier in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Instructions for Priestly Garments"). The broader narrative of Exodus, particularly from [chapter 25 through 40](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25-40 - Tabernacle Construction"), transitions from the giving of the Law at Sinai to the construction and erection of the Tabernacle, serving as a powerful testament to Israel's obedience. The recurring refrain, "as the LORD commanded Moses," found throughout [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - Obedience in Crafting Garments") (e.g., [Exodus 39:1](/exodus/39-1 "Exodus 39:1 - Obedience in Crafting Garments"), [Exodus 39:5](/exodus/39-5 "Exodus 39:5 - Obedience in Crafting the Ephod"), [Exodus 39:7](/exodus/39-7 "Exodus 39:7 - Obedience in Crafting the Shoulder Pieces")), emphasizes the absolute faithfulness of the artisans in executing God's precise design. The robe of the ephod was a foundational component of the high priest's sacred attire, worn beneath the ephod and the breastplate, signifying his unique and consecrated role as mediator between God and the people of Israel. Its construction here marks a crucial step toward the completion of the Tabernacle and the initiation of its sacred worship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Tabernacle and its elaborate priestly vestments took place in the desolate wilderness, a pivotal period following the Israelites' miraculous exodus from Egyptian bondage and the foundational covenant established at Mount Sinai. This era was crucial for shaping Israel's identity as a distinct people, set apart by God. The highly detailed specifications for every element of the Tabernacle, including the high priest's garments, were not merely aesthetic preferences but carried profound symbolic weight, communicating God's absolute holiness, His desire for His presence among His people, and the divinely ordained means by which a sinful humanity could approach Him. The skilled craftsmen, Bezalel and Aholiab, along with all those "whose heart stirred him up" ([Exodus 35:21](/exodus/35-21 "Exodus 35:21 - Freewill Offerings")), were divinely empowered and filled with the Spirit of God for this monumental task ([Exodus 31:1-6](/exodus/31-1-6 "Exodus 31:1-6 - Bezalel and Aholiab Called and Gifted")), indicating that the artistry, precision, and dedication involved were not merely human endeavors but divinely inspired and essential for the sacred purpose. The use of precious materials and specific colors, such as the "blue" (Hebrew: _tekhelet_) mentioned in this verse, frequently conveyed notions of royalty, divinity, and purity in ancient Near Eastern cultures, thereby elevating the profound significance of the high priest's office and the sacred worship conducted within the Tabernacle.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 39:22 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of **Divine Presence and Holiness**. The Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the priestly garments, were designed to facilitate God's dwelling among His people ([Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God's Command to Build a Sanctuary")), emphasizing His holy nature and the careful, consecrated approach required to enter His presence. The verse also highlights **Obedience to Divine Instruction**. The meticulous adherence to God's blueprint, reiterated throughout [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - The Construction of the Tabernacle and Priestly Garments"), underscores the necessity of following God's commands precisely in matters of worship and service. Furthermore, the verse points to the theme of **Mediation and Atonement**, as the priestly garments were essential for the high priest to perform his mediatorial duties on behalf of Israel, foreshadowing the ultimate mediator. Finally, the emphasis on "woven work" and "all of blue" speaks to **Excellence and Glory in Worship**, demonstrating that God deserves the highest quality and beauty in all that pertains to His service, reflecting His own magnificent glory.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Robe (Hebrew, _mᵉʻîyl'_):** (H4598) This term refers to a specific outer garment, typically a long, sleeved tunic worn by persons of status, often as a covering. In the context of the high priest, the _mᵉʻîyl_ was a ceremonial vestment worn beneath the ephod, distinct from the inner linen tunic. Its significance lay not merely in its function as clothing but as a divinely prescribed component of the high priest's regalia, signifying his consecrated role and the holiness required for ministry in God's presence. It was integral to his unique attire for sacred duties.
* **Work (Hebrew, _maʻăseh'_):** (H4639) Derived from the verb "to do or make," _maʻăseh_ denotes an action, transaction, or, as here, a product or something made. When combined with "woven" (from H707), it emphasizes the skill, craftsmanship, and intricate nature of the fabrication. This detail highlights that the robe was not a simple, hastily assembled garment but a meticulously crafted item, a testament to the divine inspiration and human excellence brought to bear on the sacred task. It speaks to the quality and dedication demanded in all aspects of the Tabernacle's construction.
* **Blue (Hebrew, _tᵉkêleth'_):** (H8504) This refers to a highly prized, deep blue or violet-blue dye, traditionally obtained from a specific mollusk (Murex trunculus). In ancient Israel and the broader Near East, _tᵉkêleth_ was a color associated with royalty, nobility, and divinity due to its rarity, cost, and connection to the heavens. Its exclusive use for the entire robe of the ephod profoundly symbolized the heavenly and divine nature of the high priest's ministry. It pointed to God's transcendence, the celestial realm, and the high priest's unique role as a mediator who entered God's holy presence, representing the people before their heavenly King.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he made the robe of the ephod":** This opening clause identifies the specific garment being constructed—the outer robe intended to be worn beneath the ephod. The "he" refers collectively to Bezalel, Aholiab, and the other skilled artisans whom God had divinely gifted and commissioned to faithfully execute His precise instructions for the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings. This act of making is presented as an act of direct and faithful obedience to the divine blueprint, emphasizing the meticulous adherence to God's detailed commands.
* **"[of] woven work":** This phrase specifies the intricate and highly skilled method of construction employed for the robe. It indicates that the fabric was not simply cut and sewn, but intricately woven, likely on a loom, possibly as a single, seamless piece or with highly integrated construction. This detail underscores the exceptional quality, artistry, and precision demanded in the creation of the priestly garments, reflecting the perfection and glory of the God whom they served and the sacredness of the purpose for which they were made.
* **"all [of] blue":** This final phrase describes the singular, uniform color of the robe. The exclusive use of _tekhelet_ (blue) for the entire garment is deeply symbolic. It signifies the heavenly origin and divine nature of the high priest's ministry, connecting his earthly service to the celestial realm and God's transcendent holiness. It served as a constant visual reminder to both the high priest and the congregation of his unique role as one who ministered in the very presence of the King of Kings, bridging the gap between the earthly and the divine.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device evident in Exodus 39:22, and indeed pervasive throughout the descriptions of the Tabernacle and priestly garments, is **Symbolism**. The color "blue" (Hebrew: _tekhelet_) is profoundly symbolic, representing the heavens, divinity, truth, and royalty. Its exclusive application to the entire robe of the ephod visually communicates the high priest's direct connection to the divine realm and the heavenly nature of his mediatorial role. The phrase "woven work" itself symbolizes the excellence, perfection, and meticulous care demanded in approaching a holy God, reflecting the divine standard of quality. Furthermore, the broader context of Exodus 39 employs **Repetition**, particularly with the recurring phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses." This acts as a powerful rhetorical device, emphasizing the theme of perfect and unwavering obedience to divine instruction. This repetition reinforces the absolute necessity of adhering to God's precise will in all matters of worship and sacred service, highlighting the faithfulness of the artisans.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 39:22, in its detailed description of the high priest's robe, articulates profound theological truths concerning God's inherent holiness, His gracious provision for humanity to approach Him, and the meticulous reverence required in sacred service. The robe's singular blue color powerfully points to the heavenly nature of the high priest's office, portraying him as a divinely appointed mediator who bridges the chasm between the earthly and the divine. The "woven work" signifies the excellence, perfection, and unwavering dedication demanded in all facets of worship, mirroring the character of the glorious God being served. This verse, therefore, transcends mere architectural or sartorial detail; it stands as a theological declaration concerning divine order, human obedience, the sacredness of God's presence, and the beauty that should characterize all offerings made to Him.

* [Exodus 28:31-35](/exodus/28-31-35 "Exodus 28:31-35 - Instructions for the Robe of the Ephod")
* [Leviticus 8:7-9](/leviticus/8-7-9 "Leviticus 8:7-9 - Aaron's Consecration and Vestments")
* [Hebrews 9:1-5](/hebrews/9-1-5 "Hebrews 9:1-5 - Description of the Earthly Sanctuary")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous detail given to the high priest's robe in Exodus 39:22 serves as a profound and enduring reminder that God values excellence, precision, and unwavering obedience in all forms of service offered to Him. While the Old Testament ceremonial law, including the high priestly garments, has been fulfilled in Christ, the underlying principles remain timeless and eternally relevant for believers today. Our worship, our service, and indeed our daily lives are to be characterized by a deep reverence and a commitment to quality that truly reflects the glory of the God we serve. Just as the robe was "all of blue," pointing consistently to the heavenly realm, our lives as believers should consistently point to our heavenly calling, our divine identity, and the holy character we are called to embody as those who bear God's name. This verse challenges us to critically examine the quality of our spiritual offerings—are they "woven work," crafted with intentionality, care, and dedication, or are they haphazard, perfunctory, or half-hearted? It calls us to live lives set apart, consecrated entirely to God's purposes, recognizing the sacredness of our calling as His chosen people and the profound privilege of serving Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life or service to God do I need to cultivate greater precision, excellence, and intentionality, thereby better reflecting God's character?**
* **How does the symbolic "all of blue" nature of the high priest's robe challenge me to live a life that consistently points to my heavenly identity and calling in Christ?**
* **What does the divine instruction for such detailed craftsmanship teach me about God's intrinsic value for beauty, order, and excellence in all expressions of worship and service?**

### FAQ
**What was the primary purpose of the High Priest's robe of the ephod?**

Answer: The robe of the ephod served as a crucial outer garment for the High Priest, worn directly beneath the ephod and breastplate. Its primary purpose was ceremonial and symbolic, signifying the High Priest's unique, consecrated role as mediator between God and Israel. It was an essential part of the "holy garments" designed "for glory and for beauty" ([Exodus 28:2](/exodus/28-2 "Exodus 28:2 - Purpose of the Holy Garments")), necessary for him to minister in the presence of a holy God. Its specific design and color underscored the solemnity, sacredness, and divine nature of his office, enabling him to approach God on behalf of the people.

**Why was the robe made "all of blue"?**

Answer: The color "blue" (Hebrew: _tekhelet_) was highly symbolic in ancient Israel and the broader Near East. It was deeply associated with the heavens, divinity, truth, and royalty. By making the robe "all of blue," its design profoundly emphasized the heavenly origin and divine nature of the High Priest's ministry. It visually reminded both the High Priest and the people that his service connected the earthly sanctuary to the celestial realm, representing God's transcendence and the High Priest's unique role as one who entered God's holy presence on behalf of the people. This color was also rare and costly, further highlighting the robe's immense significance and the High Priest's unparalleled standing before God.

**What does "woven work" imply about the craftsmanship of the robe?**

Answer: The phrase "woven work" (Hebrew: _maʻăseh ʼârag_) indicates an exceptionally high degree of skill, artistry, and precision in the robe's construction. It suggests that the fabric was not merely assembled from pre-made cloth but intricately woven, likely on a loom, potentially as a single, seamless piece, demonstrating advanced textile techniques for that era. This detail underscores the excellence and meticulous care demanded in all aspects of the Tabernacle's construction and the priestly vestments. It reflects the divine standard of perfection and glory that God expected in everything related to His worship and presence, and it highlights the divine inspiration and gifting given to the artisans like Bezalel and Aholiab ([Exodus 35:30-35](/exodus/35-30-35 "Exodus 35:30-35 - Bezalel and Aholiab Called and Gifted")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The high priest's robe, described as "all of blue" and of "woven work," finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. The robe's singular blue color, profoundly symbolizing heavenly origin, divinity, and truth, perfectly foreshadows Jesus, who is truly from heaven, fully God and fully man ([John 3:13](/john/3-13 "John 3:13 - Jesus, the Son of Man from Heaven"); [Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")). Unlike the earthly high priest who merely wore a symbolic garment, Jesus embodies the very essence of heavenly purity and divine authority in His own perfect person. Furthermore, the "woven work," signifying excellence, perfection, and seamless integrity, points directly to Christ's flawless life and His perfect, once-for-all sacrifice ([Hebrews 7:26-28](/hebrews/7-26-28 "Hebrews 7:26-28 - Jesus, a Perfect High Priest")). He had no need for ceremonial garments to cover imperfection, for He was utterly without sin ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). The Old Testament priesthood, with its elaborate vestments and ritual, served as a tangible shadow, pointing to the greater reality found in Christ, who, by His own precious blood, entered the true heavenly sanctuary—not made with human hands—thereby securing an eternal redemption for all who believe ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). He is the High Priest whose ministry is not merely symbolic but eternally effective, perfectly mediating between a holy God and fallen humanity, fulfilling every type and shadow of the Old Covenant.

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

Exodus 28:31

¶ And thou shalt make the robe of the ephod all [of] blue.

Exodus 28:35

And it shall be upon Aaron to minister: and his sound shall be heard when he goeth in unto the holy [place] before the LORD, and when he cometh out, that he die not.