Exodus 39:23

KJV

And [there was] an hole in the midst of the robe, as the hole of an habergeon, [with] a band round about the hole, that it should not rend.

KJV (with Strong's)

And there was an hole {H6310} in the midst {H8432} of the robe {H4598}, as the hole {H6310} of an habergeon {H8473}, with a band {H8193} round about {H5439} the hole {H6310}, that it should not rend {H7167}.

Complete Jewish Bible

with its opening in the middle, like that of a coat of mail, and with a border around the opening, so that it wouldn't tear.

Berean Standard Bible

with an opening in the center of the robe like that of a garment, with a collar around the opening so that it would not tear.

American Standard Version

and the hole of the robe in the midst thereof, as the hole of a coat of mail, with a binding round about the hole of it, that it should not be rent.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 39:23 meticulously describes the construction of the High Priest's blue robe, specifically focusing on the reinforced opening for the head. This detail underscores the divine imperative for precision, durability, and integrity in every aspect of the priestly garments. The design ensured the robe would withstand constant use without tearing, thereby symbolizing the sacredness, resilience, and enduring nature of the High Priest's mediatorial service in the Tabernacle.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - Construction of the Tabernacle and Priestly Garments"), a chapter dedicated to detailing the faithful execution of God's commands for the Tabernacle and priestly garments. It immediately follows the general description of the robe of the ephod in [Exodus 39:22](/exodus/39-22 "Exodus 39:22 - The Robe of the Ephod") and precedes the elaborate description of its hem, adorned with pomegranates and bells in [Exodus 39:24-26](/exodus/39-24-26 "Exodus 39:24-26 - Pomegranates and Bells on the Robe"). The entire chapter serves as a powerful testament to Israel's meticulous obedience to God's precise instructions, echoing the earlier divine blueprint found in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Instructions for Priestly Garments"), particularly the specific directives for the robe in [Exodus 28:31-35](/exodus/28-31-35 "Exodus 28:31-35 - Instructions for the Robe of the Ephod"). The recurring refrain, "as the Lord commanded Moses" (e.g., [Exodus 39:1](/exodus/39-1 "Exodus 39:1 - Making the Garments"), [Exodus 39:5](/exodus/39-5 "Exodus 39:5 - Ephod Construction"), [Exodus 39:7](/exodus/39-7 "Exodus 39:7 - Onyx Stones"), [Exodus 39:21](/exodus/39-21 "Exodus 39:21 - Breastplate Fastening"), [Exodus 39:26](/exodus/39-26 "Exodus 39:26 - Pomegranates and Bells"), [Exodus 39:29](/exodus/39-29 "Exodus 39:29 - Sash"), [Exodus 39:31](/exodus/39-31 "Exodus 39:31 - Holy Diadem"), [Exodus 39:32](/exodus/39-32 "Exodus 39:32 - Completion of the Work")), underscores the overarching theme of precise adherence to divine instruction, which is central to the Tabernacle narrative.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, priestly attire was never merely functional; it was deeply symbolic, conveying the wearer's status, sacred function, and connection to the divine realm. For Israel, the High Priest's garments were uniquely prescribed by Yahweh, setting him apart as the primary mediator between God and His covenant people. The blue robe, worn directly beneath the ephod and breastplate, was a foundational layer, and its structural integrity was absolutely paramount for the High Priest's regular, demanding duties within the Tabernacle. The comparison of its neck opening to an "habergeon" (a type of defensive armor) would have immediately resonated with an audience familiar with the necessity of robust, durable construction for critical items. This meticulous attention to detail in the sacred vestments reflects a broader cultural understanding that objects and rituals consecrated to the divine demanded the highest quality and precision, a principle elevated to divine command in Israel's worship, emphasizing that God's holiness required perfection in all things pertaining to His service.

* **Key Themes:** Exodus 39:23 contributes significantly to several key themes woven throughout the Tabernacle narrative. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Precision and Human Obedience**, where every detail, no matter how small, is divinely commanded and faithfully executed by human artisans. The integrity and durability of the robe also underscore the theme of **Holiness and Consecration**, as the High Priest's garments were set apart for sacred use, reflecting the perfection required in God's presence. Furthermore, the robe's design, "that it should not rend," subtly points to the **Enduring Nature of the Covenant and Priesthood**, symbolizing the unbroken communion between God and His people that the High Priest's ministry facilitated. This meticulous care for the physical garment foreshadows the spiritual integrity required of those who minister before a holy God, a principle echoed in later prophetic calls for pure worship and righteous living (e.g., [Malachi 1:6-8](/malachi/1-6-8 "Malachi 1:6-8 - Defiled Offerings")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hole (Hebrew, _peh_):** From H6310, meaning "the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side." In this context, _peh_ refers to the neck opening of the robe. The use of this word emphasizes that this was not merely a simple slit but a carefully designed and shaped aperture, akin to the opening of a vessel or a garment, specifically crafted and reinforced for its function.
* **Habergeon (Hebrew, _tachărâʼ_):** From H8473, meaning "a linen corslet (as white or hollow)." This term refers to a coat of mail or a piece of defensive armor, specifically a breastplate or a padded garment worn under armor, known for its strength. Its inclusion here is not to suggest the robe was armor, but to draw a powerful **simile** regarding the strength and reinforcement of the opening. It implies a collar or neck-hole designed with the same robust, unyielding quality found in protective military gear, ensuring it would not easily tear.
* **Rend (Hebrew, _qâraʻ_):** From H7167, a primitive root meaning "to tear, literally or figuratively (revile, paint the eyes, as if enlarging them)." Its negative use ("that it should not rend") highlights the primary concern for the garment's durability. The High Priest's robe, being central to his service, needed to be perpetually intact, symbolizing the unbroken nature of his mediatorial role and the integrity of the worship he facilitated.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And [there was] an hole in the midst of the robe":** This clause establishes the central feature of the verse – the neck opening of the High Priest's blue robe. The phrase "in the midst" indicates that this opening was centrally placed, precisely designed for the High Priest's head to pass through, ensuring proper fit and alignment for the sacred vestment.
* **"as the hole of an habergeon":** This is a crucial simile, comparing the construction of the robe's neck opening to that of a protective garment or coat of mail. It implies that the opening was not merely cut but was strongly reinforced, possibly with a thick weave or a padded collar. The comparison emphasizes the extreme durability and structural integrity required, akin to military-grade protection, ensuring it could withstand repeated stress.
* **"[with] a band round about the hole":** This specifies the method of reinforcement. A woven or sewn band, likely of the same blue material, encircled the entire opening. This band served to prevent fraying, provide additional strength, and maintain the shape of the opening, much like a modern collar or reinforced seam, ensuring its integrity despite constant donning and doffing.
* **"that it should not rend":** This clause explicitly states the ultimate purpose of the meticulous design and reinforcement. The primary goal was to prevent the robe from tearing. In ancient Israelite culture, a torn garment could symbolize imperfection, defilement, or even a curse. For the High Priest, any blemish on his sacred attire would compromise his ability to mediate, thus the integrity of the robe was paramount to the integrity of his sacred service before God.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Exodus 39:23 is **Simile**, vividly presented in the phrase "as the hole of an habergeon." This comparison effectively conveys the intended strength and durability of the robe's neck opening by likening it to a piece of protective armor, known for its robust construction. While the robe itself is not armor, the *quality* of its reinforcement is analogized to armor, emphasizing its resilience. Beyond this direct comparison, the entire detailed description carries profound **Symbolism**. The integrity and durability of the High Priest's robe symbolize the integrity required of the High Priest himself, the enduring nature of the covenant relationship he mediated, and the perfection demanded in God's presence. A flawless, untorn garment reflects the wholeness and sacredness of the priestly office and the divine order of worship. Furthermore, the meticulous detail in this verse highlights a pervasive **Thematic Emphasis** throughout the Tabernacle narrative: the divine insistence on precision and human obedience in all matters pertaining to God's holy dwelling and service.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The precise instructions for the High Priest's robe, particularly the reinforced opening designed "that it should not rend," underscore profound theological truths about God's character and His expectations for worship. It reveals God's demand for excellence, integrity, and wholeness in all matters pertaining to His worship and service. The robe's durability symbolizes the enduring nature of the High Priest's mediatorial role and the unbroken communion between God and His people, which was to be upheld through his consecrated service. This meticulous attention to detail reflects the divine order and the sacredness of the Tabernacle, where every element was to be perfect and consecrated for holy use, mirroring the spiritual integrity expected of those who ministered before a holy God. This principle extends to the quality of our offerings and service to God, emphasizing that He deserves our very best.

* [Exodus 28:31-35](/exodus/28-31-35 "Instructions for the Robe of the Ephod")
* [Leviticus 21:10](/leviticus/21-10 "Holiness and Restrictions for the High Priest")
* [Malachi 1:8](/malachi/1-8 "Offering the Lame and Blind to God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed construction of the High Priest's robe, particularly the reinforced opening designed not to rend, offers a powerful lesson for believers today. It reminds us that God is a God of order and excellence, desiring not merely our effort, but our very best in all things, especially in our service and devotion to Him. Just as the physical integrity of the robe was crucial for the High Priest's function, so too is the spiritual integrity of believers essential for effective ministry and witness. Our faith, character, and commitment should be built with such spiritual "reinforcement" that they do not "rend" under the pressures, temptations, or trials of life. This calls us to cultivate spiritual resilience, a steadfastness rooted in God's Word and sustained by the Holy Spirit, ensuring our lives reflect the enduring holiness and faithfulness of our God. We are called to live lives of integrity, where our inner convictions match our outward conduct, making us effective vessels for God's purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or service to God might I be tempted to offer less than my best, and how can I cultivate a spirit of divine precision and excellence?**
* **What "bands" or spiritual disciplines (e.g., prayer, Scripture study, community, accountability) can I implement to strengthen my faith and character, preventing them from "rending" under pressure?**
* **How does the emphasis on the High Priest's garment integrity challenge or affirm my understanding of personal holiness and its importance in my walk with God?**

### FAQ

**Why was it so important that the robe "should not rend"?**

Answer: The integrity of the High Priest's robe was paramount for several reasons. First, a torn garment could symbolize imperfection, defilement, or even a curse in ancient Israelite culture (e.g., [Genesis 37:34](/genesis/37-34 "Genesis 37:34 - Jacob Tears His Clothes")). For the High Priest, who represented the holiness of God before the people and the people before God, any blemish on his sacred attire would compromise his ability to mediate. Second, it ensured the robe's durability for repeated use in the demanding rituals of the Tabernacle. The High Priest served daily, and his garments needed to withstand constant donning and doffing. Finally, it underscored the divine demand for perfection and wholeness in all things pertaining to God's presence and worship, reflecting His own flawless character and the sacredness of the priestly office.

**What exactly was an "habergeon" and why is it used as a comparison here?**

Answer: An "habergeon" (Hebrew: _tachărâʼ_) was a type of defensive armor, often a coat of mail or a reinforced garment worn for protection, particularly over the chest and shoulders. It was known for its strength and ability to withstand impact and tearing. The comparison in [Exodus 39:23](/exodus/39-23 "Exodus 39:23 - The High Priest's Robe") is not to suggest the robe was armor, but to emphasize the exceptional strength and reinforcement of its neck opening. Just as a soldier's habergeon was built to be unyielding and durable, so too was the High Priest's robe designed with a robust, untearable collar, ensuring it would maintain its integrity under stress and symbolizing its sacred, enduring purpose in the Tabernacle service.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous construction of the High Priest's robe, particularly its reinforced opening designed "that it should not rend," powerfully foreshadows the perfect and enduring priesthood of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament High Priest, with his carefully crafted garments and temporary service, served as a type, a provisional shadow pointing to the ultimate reality of Christ. Unlike the High Priest's robe, which, despite its meticulous design, was still a perishable garment worn by a fallible man, Christ's "robe" of righteousness and His priesthood are eternally flawless and incorruptible. His sacrifice on the cross, unlike the repeated sacrifices offered by human priests, was a perfect, once-for-all act that established an everlasting covenant, as beautifully articulated in [Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11-12 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ, Our High Priest"). The integrity of the robe symbolized the required integrity of the human priest; Christ *is* perfect integrity, the spotless [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") whose "garment" of sinless humanity was never torn by sin or imperfection. He is our High Priest forever, providing a way for us to draw near to God with confidence, through His perfect and abiding intercession, as described in [Hebrews 7:24-25](/hebrews/7-24-25 "Hebrews 7:24-25 - Christ's Enduring Priesthood"). Through Him, we have access to a new and living way, not through a torn veil, but through His flesh, which was torn for us, granting us eternal access to God's presence (cf. [Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access Through Christ's Blood")).

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.