What number verse is Exodus 39:28 in the Bible?

Exodus 39:28 is the 2,693rd verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Exodus 39:28 sits at position 2,693.

Translation

King James Version

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

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KJV (with Strong's)

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,

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Complete Jewish Bible

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

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Berean Standard Bible

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

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American Standard Version

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

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World English Bible Messianic

and the turban of fine linen, and the linen headbands of fine linen, and the linen breeches of fine twined linen,

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And the miter of fine linen, and goodly bonnets of fine linen, and linen breeches of fine twined linen,

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Young's Literal Translation

and the mitre of linen, and the beautiful bonnets of linen, and the linen trousers, of twined linen,

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Exodus 39:28 meticulously details the completion of specific priestly garments for the Tabernacle service: the High Priest's mitre, the ordinary priests' bonnets, and the linen breeches for all priests. Fashioned from fine linen, these items underscore the divine mandate for purity, modesty, and precise adherence to God's instructions in the worship of a holy God, signifying the consecration and distinct role of those who ministered before Him.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Exodus 39:28 is situated within the final section of the book of Exodus, specifically chapters 35-40, which describe the actual construction and completion of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, along with the priestly garments, all according to the detailed blueprints previously given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. This chapter serves as a fulfillment narrative, demonstrating Israel's faithful obedience to every instruction. The preceding verses in Exodus 39 (vv. 1-26) describe the making of the ephod and the breastpiece, while the verses immediately following (vv. 29-31) complete the description of the High Priest's belt and the golden plate for the mitre. This meticulous recounting emphasizes the exactness of the execution, mirroring the precision of the divine command found earlier in Exodus 28.
Historical & Cultural Context: The construction of the Tabernacle and the creation of the priestly garments occurred during Israel's wilderness wanderings, a pivotal period in their formation as a nation under God's covenant. The elaborate nature of these garments, particularly the emphasis on "fine linen" and specific designs, set the Israelite priesthood apart from other ancient Near Eastern religious practices. While other cultures had priests and cultic attire, the Israelite garments were uniquely prescribed by Yahweh, emphasizing His holiness and the need for purity in approaching Him. The linen breeches, in particular, addressed the cultural expectation of modesty and prevented any potential exposure during sacred service at the altar, as explicitly commanded in Exodus 28:42-43. This attention to detail reflects God's desire for reverence and order in worship, distinguishing His people and their worship from the pagan rituals of surrounding nations.
Key Themes: This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights the theme of Divine Prescription and Human Obedience, showcasing Israel's faithful execution of God's detailed commands for the Tabernacle and its service (compare Exodus 25 with Exodus 35-40). Secondly, the emphasis on "fine linen" and specific garments underscores the theme of Holiness and Purity required for approaching a holy God. The priests, as mediators, had to be ritually clean and set apart. Thirdly, the distinct attire for the High Priest and ordinary priests reinforces the theme of Order and Hierarchy within God's divinely established system of worship and governance for His people.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Mitre (Hebrew, mitsnepheth', H4701): This term refers specifically to the tiara or official turban worn by the High Priest. Unlike the simpler caps of the ordinary priests, the mitsnepheth was an elaborate, wrapped head covering, symbolizing the High Priest's unique and elevated status as the chief mediator between God and Israel. It was designed to hold the golden plate inscribed "Holiness to the LORD," further emphasizing its sacred significance and the High Priest's role as consecrated for God's presence.
Bonnet (Hebrew, migbâʻâh', H4021): This term, used in the plural in the verse, refers to the cap-like head coverings for the ordinary priests. Derived from a word suggesting a hemispherical shape, these bonnets distinguished the ordinary priests visually from the High Priest's turban and from the laypeople. Their purpose was to provide a dignified covering and to mark them as consecrated for sacred service, ensuring a proper appearance before God.
Fine Twined Linen (Hebrew, shêsh_ _shâzar', H8336): This phrase denotes linen of the highest quality, meticulously spun and twisted into strong, fine threads. The term shêsh refers to bleached stuff, specifically white linen, symbolizing purity, cleanliness, and value. The addition of shâzar, meaning "to twist" or "to twine," indicates the superior craftsmanship involved in creating a durable and strong fabric from these fine threads. The repeated emphasis on "fine linen" throughout the descriptions of the Tabernacle and priestly garments (e.g., Exodus 28:39) highlights the material's purity and its essential nature for those ministering in the presence of a holy God.

Verse Breakdown

"And a mitre [of] fine linen": This clause specifies the High Priest's distinctive head covering, crafted from the purest and finest quality linen. The mitre was not merely an accessory but a central symbol of his unique office, signifying his elevated role and the profound holiness required for his direct access to God on behalf of the people. Its material underscored the purity demanded for such a sacred mediatorial position.
"and goodly bonnets [of] fine linen": This refers to the head coverings for the ordinary priests, also made of fine linen. While distinct in form from the High Priest's mitre, these bonnets similarly marked the ordinary priests as set apart for sacred service. The term "goodly" (from H6287, pᵉʼêr) suggests an embellishment or fancy head-dress, indicating that even the ordinary priests' attire was designed with dignity and beauty, emphasizing their shared requirement for purity and reverence in their duties.
"and linen breeches [of] fine twined linen": This describes the undergarments worn by all priests, both High Priest and ordinary. The material, "fine twined linen," again stresses purity and quality, indicating a fabric that was both delicate and durable. These breeches were essential for modesty, designed to cover the priests' nakedness when they ministered at the altar, ensuring reverence and preventing sacrilege in God's holy presence, as explicitly commanded in Exodus 28:42. This detail highlights God's concern for even the most private aspects of priestly conduct in His holy sanctuary.

Literary Devices

The primary literary device at play in Exodus 39:28, and indeed throughout the Tabernacle construction narrative, is Repetition. The detailed reiteration of materials and specific items, often echoing the commands given in earlier chapters (e.g., Exodus 28), serves to emphasize the precision and exactness of Israel's obedience to God's divine instructions. This repetition reinforces the theme of God's meticulousness and His expectation of faithful adherence to His covenant stipulations. Furthermore, Symbolism is deeply embedded in the description. The "fine linen" itself is a powerful symbol of purity, holiness, and righteousness, essential qualities for those who approach a holy God. The distinct head coverings (mitre vs. bonnets) also symbolize the Hierarchy and specific roles within the priesthood, reflecting the divine order established for worship. The inclusion of the breeches underscores the symbolic importance of Modesty and reverence in the divine presence.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Exodus 39:28, in its meticulous detail of priestly garments, profoundly underscores the themes of holiness, purity, and divine order in worship. The repeated emphasis on "fine linen" signifies the absolute necessity of ritual and moral purity for those who minister before a holy God. These garments were not merely uniforms but sacred vestments that set the priests apart, identifying them as consecrated mediators between God and His people. The precise adherence to God's instructions in their making highlights the importance of obedience and reverence in all aspects of divine service. This passage teaches us that God cares about the specifics of how we approach Him, demanding both inward purity and outward conformity to His revealed will. The very fabric and form of the attire communicated the gravity and sanctity of their calling.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Exodus 39:28, while describing ancient priestly attire, offers timeless principles for believers today. As a "royal priesthood" (as described in 1 Peter 2:9), we are called to a life of holiness and distinction, not through outward garments, but through inward purity and righteous living. The meticulous detail in God's commands for the priests' attire reminds us that God is concerned with the specifics of our devotion and service. Our "garments" are now spiritual: putting on Christ's righteousness, living with integrity, and maintaining a pure heart before God. Just as the linen breeches ensured modesty and reverence, so too are we called to conduct ourselves in a manner that honors God in all circumstances, avoiding anything that would bring shame or disrespect to His holy name. This passage challenges us to consider the quality of our spiritual "linen"—are we presenting ourselves to God with diligence, purity, and humble obedience in every area of our lives? It calls us to examine whether our lives reflect the holiness of the God we serve, both in public and in private.

Questions for Reflection

How does the emphasis on "fine linen" in priestly garments inform our understanding of purity in Christian life and worship today?
In what ways can we, as a "royal priesthood," demonstrate spiritual "modesty" and reverence in our daily lives and service to God?
What specific areas of my life might need to be "fashioned" more precisely according to God's instructions, reflecting greater obedience and integrity?

FAQ

Why were the priestly garments, especially the linen, so meticulously described and emphasized?

Answer: The meticulous description of the priestly garments, particularly the repeated emphasis on "fine linen" and "fine twined linen," served several crucial purposes. Firstly, it underscored the holiness and purity required for those who ministered in God's presence. Linen, being white and easily washable, symbolized ritual and moral cleanliness, reflecting the character of the God they served. Secondly, it demonstrated the divine authority and precision of God's commands; every detail was significant and divinely ordained, demanding exact obedience from the Israelites in their construction and use. Thirdly, the garments served to distinguish and consecrate the priests, setting them apart from the common people and identifying them as consecrated individuals dedicated solely to God's service. This attention to detail ensured that worship was conducted with the utmost reverence and order, reflecting the character of a holy God. The instructions for these garments are first given in Exodus 28, with chapter 39 detailing their faithful execution.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Exodus 39:28, with its focus on the pure linen garments of the Old Testament priesthood, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "fine linen" symbolizing purity and righteousness points directly to Christ, who is our Great High Priest, perfectly pure and without blemish, unlike the Levitical priests who themselves needed atonement. While the earthly priests wore these garments to cover their own imperfections and to perform a temporary mediating role, Jesus, in His perfect humanity and divine nature, required no such covering for Himself. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, offering a singular, perfect sacrifice that forever purifies His people, making us righteous in God's sight. Through His finished work on the cross, believers are now clothed in His righteousness (as described in Isaiah 61:10) and are constituted as a "royal priesthood" (as stated in 1 Peter 2:9), no longer needing the physical linen garments to approach God. Our access to the Father is now direct, through the torn veil of Christ's flesh (as explained in Hebrews 10:19-20), and our spiritual "garments" are the purity and holiness imputed by His perfect life and atoning death. He is the one who perfectly fulfills the requirements of purity and modesty, allowing us to draw near to God with confidence.

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Commentary on Exodus 39 verses 1–31

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.

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

3 And they did beat the gold into thin plates, and cut it into wires, to work it in the blue, and in the purple, and in the scarlet, and in the fine linen, with cunning work.

4 They made shoulderpieces for it, to couple it together: by the two edges was it coupled together.

5 And the curious girdle of his ephod, that was upon it, was of the same, according to the work thereof; of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen; as the LORD commanded Moses.

6 And they wrought onyx stones inclosed in ouches of gold, graven, as signets are graven, with the names of the children of Israel.

7 And he put them on the shoulders of the ephod, that they should be stones for a memorial to the children of Israel; as the LORD commanded Moses.

8 And he made the breastplate of cunning work, like the work of the ephod; of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen.

9 It was foursquare; they made the breastplate double: a span was the length thereof, and a span the breadth thereof, being doubled.

10 And they set in it four rows of stones: the first row was a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle: this was the first row.

11 And the second row, an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond.

12 And the third row, a ligure, an agate, and an amethyst.

13 And the fourth row, a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper: they were inclosed in ouches of gold in their inclosings.

14 And the stones were according to the names of the children of Israel, twelve, according to their names, like the engravings of a signet, every one with his name, according to the twelve tribes.

15 And they made upon the breastplate chains at the ends, of wreathen work of pure gold.

16 And they made two ouches of gold, and two gold rings; and put the two rings in the two ends of the breastplate.

17 And they put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings on the ends of the breastplate.

18 And the two ends of the two wreathen chains they fastened in the two ouches, and put them on the shoulderpieces of the ephod, before it.

19 And they made two rings of gold, and put them on the two ends of the breastplate, upon the border of it, which was on the side of the ephod inward.

20 And they made two other golden rings, and put them on the two sides of the ephod underneath, toward the forepart of it, over against the other coupling thereof, above the curious girdle of the ephod.

21 And they did bind the breastplate by his rings unto the rings of the ephod with a lace of blue, that it might be above the curious girdle of the ephod, and that the breastplate might not be loosed from the ephod; as the LORD commanded Moses.

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

23 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.

24 And they made upon the hems of the robe pomegranates of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and twined linen.

25 And they made bells of pure gold, and put the bells between the pomegranates upon the hem of the robe, round about between the pomegranates;

26 A bell and a pomegranate, a bell and a pomegranate, round about the hem of the robe to minister in; as the LORD commanded Moses.

27 And they made coats of fine linen of woven work for Aaron, and for his sons,

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

29 And a girdle of fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet, of needlework; as the LORD commanded Moses.

30 And they made the plate of the holy crown of pure gold, and wrote upon it a writing, like to the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD.

31 And they tied unto it a lace of blue, to fasten it on high upon the mitre; as the LORD commanded Moses.

In this account of the making of the priests' garments, according to the instructions given (ch. 28), we may observe, 1. That the priests' garments are called here clothes of service, Exo 39:1. Note, Those that wear robes of honour must look upon them as clothes of service; for from those upon whom honour is put service is expected. It is said of those that are arrayed in white robes that they are before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple, Rev 7:13, Rev 7:15. Holy garments were not made for men to sleep in, or to strut in, but to do service in; and then they are indeed for glory and beauty. The Son of man himself came not to be ministered unto, but to minister. 2. That all the six paragraphs here, which give a distinct account of the making of these holy garments, conclude with those words, as the Lord commanded Moses, Exo 39:5, Exo 39:7, Exo 39:21, Exo 39:26, Exo 39:29, Exo 39:31. The like is not in any of the foregoing accounts, as if in these, more than any other of the appurtenances of the tabernacle, they had a particular regard to the divine appointment, both for warrant and for direction. It is an intimation to all the Lord's ministers to make the word of God their rule in all their ministrations, and to act in observance of and obedience to the command of God. 3. That these garments, in conformity to the rest of the furniture of the tabernacle, were very rich and splendid; the church in its infancy was thus taught, thus pleased, with the rudiments of this world; but now under the gospel, which is the ministration of the Spirit, to affect and impose such pompous habits as the church of Rome does, under pretence of decency and instruction, is to betray the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free, and to entangle the church again in the bondage of those carnal ordinances which were imposed only till the time of reformation. 4. That they were all shadows of good things to come, but the substance is Christ, and the grace of the gospel; when therefore the substance has come, it is a jest to be fond of the shadow. (1.) Christ is our great high-priest; when he undertook the work of our redemption, he put on the clothes of service - he arrayed himself with the gifts and graces of the Spirit, which he received not by measure - girded himself with the curious girdle of resolution, to go through with his undertaking - charged himself with the curious girdle of resolution, to go through with his undertaking - charged himself with all God's spiritual Israel, bore them on his shoulders, carried them in his bosom, laid them near his heart, engraved them on the palms of his hands, and presented them in the breast-plate of judgment unto his Father. And (lastly) he crowned himself with holiness to the Lord, consecrating his whole undertaking to the honour of his Father's holiness: now consider how great this man is. (2.) True believers are spiritual priests. The clean linen with which all their clothes of service must be made is the righteousness of saints (Rev 19:8), and Holiness to the Lord must be so written upon their foreheads that all who converse with them may see, and say, that they bear the image of God's holiness, and are devoted to the praise of it.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–31. Public domain.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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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.