Exodus 39:28

And a mitre [of] fine linen, and goodly bonnets [of] fine linen, and linen breeches [of] fine twined linen,

And a mitre {H4701} of fine linen {H8336}, and goodly {H6287} bonnets {H4021} of fine linen {H8336}, and linen {H906} breeches {H4370} of fine twined {H7806} linen {H8336},

the turban of fine linen, the splendid headgear of fine linen, the linen shorts,

as well as the turban of fine linen, the ornate headbands and undergarments of finely spun linen,

and the mitre of fine linen, and the goodly head-tires of fine linen, and the linen breeches of fine twined linen,

Commentary

Context of Exodus 39:28

Exodus 39:28 is part of the final chapters of the book of Exodus, which meticulously document the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, as well as the garments for the priests. This verse specifically details three items of priestly attire: the mitre (for the High Priest), bonnets (for the ordinary priests), and linen breeches (for all priests). These items were being fashioned precisely according to the meticulous divine instructions given by God to Moses earlier in Exodus 28. The completion of these garments signifies the approaching readiness for the Levitical priesthood to begin their sacred duties in the wilderness Tabernacle.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Holiness and Purity: The repeated emphasis on "fine linen" and "fine twined linen" highlights the theme of purity required for those who minister before a holy God. Linen, being white and easily washable, symbolized cleanliness and spiritual purity. The breeches, specifically, ensured modesty and prevented exposure during sacred service, signifying reverence for God's holiness.
  • Divine Obedience and Precision: The fact that these items are described in detail, reiterating earlier commands, underscores the importance of exact obedience to God's instructions. Every thread and design element was significant, reflecting God's desire for order and reverence in worship.
  • Distinction and Separation: These garments set the priests apart from the common people, identifying them as consecrated individuals dedicated solely to God's service. Their attire was a visible sign of their unique role as mediators between God and Israel.

Linguistic Insights

  • Mitre (ืžึดืฆึฐื ึถืคึถืช, mitsnephet): This refers to the turban worn by the High Priest. It was distinct from the 'bonnets' of the ordinary priests, being more elaborately wrapped and featuring the gold plate inscribed "Holiness to the LORD."
  • Bonnets (ืžึดื’ึฐื‘ึผึธืขื•ึนืช, migba'ot): These were the head coverings for the ordinary priests, likely shaped like a conical cap, distinguishing them from the High Priest's turban.
  • Linen Breeches (ืžึดื›ึฐื ึฐืกึตื™ึพื‘ึทื“, miknesei-bad): These were undergarments, essential for modesty and to cover their nakedness when ministering at the altar (as commanded in Exodus 28:42). The term 'bad' refers specifically to linen, emphasizing the material's purity.
  • Fine Twined Linen (ืฉืึตืฉื ืžึธืฉืึฐื–ึธืจ, shesh mashzar): This phrase denotes high-quality, pure white linen that has been finely spun and twisted together, signifying both beauty and durability, fitting for garments used in God's service.

Practical Application

While believers today do not wear literal priestly garments, this passage offers timeless principles. It reminds us of God's desire for holiness and purity in those who serve Him. Just as the ancient priests were set apart by their attire, Christians are called to be a royal priesthood, distinct from the world and consecrated to God. Our "garments" are spiritual: the righteousness of Christ, purity of heart, and integrity in our actions. The meticulous detail in God's commands for the Tabernacle and priestly garments serves as a powerful reminder that God cares about the specifics of our worship and service, desiring reverence, obedience, and a humble heart in all we do.

Note: If the commentary doesnโ€™t appear instantly, please allow 2โ€“5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Exodus 28:4

    And these [are] the garments which they shall make; a breastplate, and an ephod, and a robe, and a broidered coat, a mitre, and a girdle: and they shall make holy garments for Aaron thy brother, and his sons, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.

  • Exodus 28:39

    And thou shalt embroider the coat of fine linen, and thou shalt make the mitre [of] fine linen, and thou shalt make the girdle [of] needlework.

  • Exodus 28:42

    And thou shalt make them linen breeches to cover their nakedness; from the loins even unto the thighs they shall reach:

  • Ezekiel 44:18

    They shall have linen bonnets upon their heads, and shall have linen breeches upon their loins; they shall not gird [themselves] with any thing that causeth sweat.
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