Exodus 39:31

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

And they tied {H5414} unto it a lace {H6616} of blue {H8504}, to fasten {H5414} it on high {H4605} upon the mitre {H4701}; as the LORD {H3068} commanded {H6680} Moses {H4872}.

and tied a blue cord on it to fasten it to the front of the turban - as ADONAI had ordered Moshe.

Then they fastened to it a blue cord to mount it on the turban, just as the LORD had commanded Moses.

And they tied unto it a lace of blue, to fasten it upon the mitre above; as Jehovah commanded Moses.

Commentary

Exodus 39:31 describes the final detail of the high priest's sacred headwear: the attachment of the gold plate, also known as the 'holy crown,' to the mitre.

Context

This verse is part of the extensive description of the Tabernacle's construction and the making of the priestly garments, as instructed by God. Specifically, it details the completion of the high priest's mitre (turban) and the gold plate that was worn on its front. The preceding verse, Exodus 39:30, describes the inscription on this plate: "HOLINESS TO THE LORD." This particular verse focuses on the practical detail of how this significant plate was secured with a blue lace onto the mitre, emphasizing the meticulous adherence to divine blueprints.

Key Themes

  • Divine Mandate and Obedience: The phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses" is a recurring motif throughout the chapters detailing the Tabernacle's construction (Exodus 25:9). It underscores the absolute necessity of precise obedience to God's instructions in worship and service. Every detail, no matter how small, was divinely ordained.
  • Holiness and Consecration: The gold plate itself, inscribed with "HOLINESS TO THE LORD," signified the high priest's consecrated role as mediator between God and Israel. His attire was a visual representation of the sanctity required to approach God's presence on behalf of the people. This symbolism points to the broader biblical theme of God's call for His people to be holy.
  • Symbolism of Blue: The "lace of blue" used to fasten the plate is significant. In biblical symbolism, blue often represents heaven, divinity, truth, or the spiritual realm. Its use here could emphasize the heavenly origin of the priest's office and the divine nature of the holiness he represented.

Linguistic Insights

The "mitre" (Hebrew: mitznefet) was a distinctive turban worn by the high priest. The gold plate was called the tzitz (meaning "flower" or "blossom," perhaps referring to its shape or decorative nature), which was the forehead plate. The meticulous instructions for its attachment highlight the importance of its prominent placement.

Practical Application

Exodus 39:31, though detailing an ancient priestly garment, offers timeless lessons for believers today:

  • Attention to Detail in Service: God cares about the specifics of how we serve Him. While we are under a new covenant, the principle of reverent and intentional service remains.
  • The Call to Holiness: Just as the high priest bore the inscription "HOLINESS TO THE LORD," believers are called to live holy lives, reflecting God's character in a fallen world. As a "royal priesthood", our lives should be marked by consecration to God.
  • Obedience as Worship: The repeated phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses" reminds us that true worship includes diligent obedience to God's revealed will.
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Cross-References

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