Exodus 40:14

KJV

And thou shalt bring his sons, and clothe them with coats:

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou shalt bring {H7126} his sons {H1121}, and clothe {H3847} them with coats {H3801}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Bring his sons, put tunics on them,

Berean Standard Bible

Bring his sons forward and clothe them with tunics.

American Standard Version

And thou shalt bring his sons, and put coats upon them;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 40:14 meticulously details God's precise instructions to Moses for the investiture of Aaron's sons with their priestly garments, marking a crucial step in the formal consecration of the Levitical priesthood. This command is integral to the final preparations for the Tabernacle's dedication, underscoring the divine origin, sacred nature, and perpetual continuity of the priestly service essential for Israel's worship and access to God's holy presence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 40 serves as the grand culmination of the book of Exodus, bringing to completion the narrative arc of Israel's deliverance from Egypt and the establishment of God's dwelling place among His people. Following the extensive blueprints for the Tabernacle's construction in [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25-31 "Exodus 25-31 - Instructions for the Tabernacle") and the diligent execution of these plans in [Exodus 35-39](/exodus/35-39 "Exodus 35-39 - Construction of the Tabernacle"), chapter 40 focuses entirely on the erection, anointing, and consecration of the Tabernacle and its ministers. Verses 1-11 detail the precise assembly and anointing of every component, from the Ark of the Covenant to the Altar of Burnt Offering, thereby sanctifying them for divine service. This sets the stage for the consecration of Aaron, the High Priest, through ritual washing and anointing in [Exodus 40:12-13](/exodus/40-12-13 "Exodus 40:12-13 - Aaron's Consecration"). Our verse, [Exodus 40:14](/exodus/40-14 "Exodus 40:14 - Clothing Aaron's Sons"), then extends this sacred process to Aaron's sons, ensuring the establishment of a complete and functioning priesthood. The chapter, and indeed the entire book, concludes powerfully with the glory of the Lord filling the Tabernacle, signifying God's acceptance and His tangible presence among His people, as described in [Exodus 40:34-38](/exodus/40-34-38 "Exodus 40:34-38 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Tabernacle").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, various forms of priesthood were common, often tied to political power or familial inheritance, and frequently involving practices of divination or magic. However, Israel's priesthood, as established in Exodus, stood in stark contrast. It was uniquely instituted by direct divine decree, not human initiative or political appointment, emphasizing Yahweh's absolute sovereignty and meticulous order. The act of clothing, as commanded in this verse, was far more than a practical necessity; it was a profoundly symbolic act of investiture, signifying separation, consecration, and the formal assumption of a new, sacred identity. Unlike the often corrupt or self-appointed priests of surrounding nations, Israel's priests were chosen by God Himself and set apart through precise, divinely ordained rituals. This divine ordination ensured the legitimacy and authority of their service, distinguishing them as mediators between a holy God and His covenant people. The garments themselves, described in intricate detail in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - The Priestly Garments"), were designed not only for beauty but also to convey glory and holiness, reflecting the sanctity of the priestly office and the purity required for approaching God.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, situated at the climax of Exodus, contributes significantly to several overarching themes. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Order and Meticulousness**, demonstrating God's precise instructions for every aspect of worship and service, leaving no detail to human discretion. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **Holiness and Separation**, as the priests are set apart through specific rituals and garments, emphasizing the purity required to minister in God's presence. This separation foreshadows the ultimate holiness required for all who would approach God. Thirdly, the verse establishes the theme of **Mediation and Atonement**, as the priests are consecrated to serve as intermediaries between God and Israel, facilitating worship and the sacrificial system necessary for the forgiveness of sins. Finally, the inclusion of Aaron's sons establishes the theme of **Covenant Continuity and Succession**, ensuring that the sacred service would endure through generations, maintaining God's covenant presence among His people. These themes are foundational to understanding the nature of God's relationship with Israel and His ultimate plan for redemption.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **bring (Hebrew, _qârab'_):** This primitive root signifies "to approach" or, causatively, "to bring near." In this context, it emphasizes Moses' role as God's agent, physically presenting Aaron's sons for their sacred office. The act of "bringing near" underscores the divine initiative in calling individuals into service and the necessity of human obedience in facilitating that divine call. It implies a formal presentation, a solemn act of drawing them into a closer relationship with the divine presence they are about to serve.
* **sons (Hebrew, _bên'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to build," this term refers to a male offspring, broadly signifying one who builds or continues the family name. Here, it specifically denotes Aaron's direct male descendants (Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar), establishing the hereditary nature of the priesthood. This lineage ensures the continuity of the priestly function, emphasizing God's plan for a perpetual, generational priesthood to mediate atonement and worship for Israel, thus laying the foundational structure for the Levitical priesthood.
* **clothe (Hebrew, _lâbash'_):** This primitive root means "to wrap around" or "to put on a garment," literally or figuratively. In this context, it signifies an act of investiture, a formal dressing that marks a transition into a new, consecrated role or status. The act of being "clothed" by Moses, acting under God's direct command, is a performative act that symbolizes divine empowerment and formal consecration for sacred service, indicating that their authority and ability to serve came directly from God, not from any inherent human merit.
* **coats (Hebrew, _kᵉthôneth'_):** This term refers to a "shirt" or "tunic," specifically the simple, fine linen tunic worn as the innermost garment by all priests. Its material, fine linen, symbolized purity and righteousness, essential qualities for those ministering in God's presence. Its foundational nature, as the first garment worn, signifies humility and the essential internal purity required for external service. The _kᵉthôneth_ distinguished the priests and served as a constant reminder of the spiritual state necessary for their holy duties.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou shalt bring his sons":** This clause issues a direct command to Moses, God's appointed leader, to physically present Aaron's sons before the Tabernacle. This act of "bringing" signifies a formal presentation for divine service, underscoring that their appointment to the priesthood was not self-initiated but mandated by God. It highlights the divine selection of specific individuals (Aaron's sons) to carry out the priestly functions, thereby establishing a designated and hereditary line for sacred duties.
* **"and clothe them with coats":** This is the explicit instruction for the act of investiture. The "coats" (Hebrew, _kᵉthôneth_) represent the first and foundational layer of the priestly attire, signifying purity and readiness for holy duties. The act of Moses clothing them, under divine command, was a visible and ritualistic sign of their separation from the common populace and their formal consecration for sacred service. This investiture formally equipped them for their unique responsibilities in the Tabernacle, symbolizing their divine authorization and the purity required to serve in God's holy presence.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 40:14 employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound theological meaning. Central to the verse is **Command/Instruction**, as God issues a direct and imperative command to Moses ("thou shalt bring," "clothe them"). This authoritative tone emphasizes the divine origin of the priesthood and the non-negotiable nature of the ordination process, highlighting God's sovereignty over all matters of worship. **Symbolism** is profoundly present in the "coats" themselves, which are not merely functional garments but powerful symbols of purity, distinction, and readiness for sacred service. The act of "clothing" is equally symbolic, representing investiture, consecration, and the transition from ordinary status to a divinely appointed and empowered role. Furthermore, the meticulous detail in this verse and the surrounding narrative reflects **Divine Order**, showcasing God's perfect plan and the highly structured nature of His covenant relationship with Israel, where every element of worship is precisely dictated by Him.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 40:14 profoundly illustrates God's meticulous nature in establishing the means by which His people could approach Him. It underscores the theological principle of divine ordination, highlighting that sacred office and service are not self-appointed but divinely initiated, sanctioned, and empowered. The act of clothing signifies consecration, separation, and purification, all essential for those who would mediate between a holy God and sinful humanity. This preparation for service emphasizes the gravity and holiness of priestly duties, foreshadowing the need for proper spiritual attire and readiness in all forms of worship and service. The inclusion of Aaron's sons also establishes the principle of a hereditary priesthood, ensuring the continuity of the sacrificial system and the ongoing access to God's presence for generations, a system designed to point forward to a greater reality.

* [Leviticus 8:13](/leviticus/8-13 "Leviticus 8:13 - Moses Clothes Aaron's Sons")
* [Hebrews 5:4](/hebrews/5-4 "Hebrews 5:4 - No One Takes This Honor")
* [1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - A Holy Priesthood")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 40:14, while rooted in the specific historical context of the Old Covenant priesthood, offers timeless principles for believers today. As followers of Christ, we are called to be a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), entrusted with the privilege of offering spiritual sacrifices of praise and living lives of worship. This verse reminds us that our service to God is not a casual endeavor but a sacred calling that demands intentional consecration and preparation. Just as Aaron's sons were physically clothed for their specific duties, we are called to be "clothed" with spiritual virtues that reflect Christ's character, such as compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, as exhorted in [Colossians 3:12](/colossians/3-12 "Colossians 3:12 - Put On Compassion, Kindness"). This spiritual attire equips us for effective service, enabling us to represent Christ faithfully in a world that desperately needs His light. Our obedience to God's instructions, whether explicit commands in Scripture or the New Testament principles for Christian living, remains paramount, reflecting a heart dedicated to His will and purposes. The solemnity and specificity of the Old Testament priestly ordination should inspire us to approach our own calling to serve God with reverence, diligence, and a deep awareness of His holiness, understanding that our service is a response to His grace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the divine ordination of Aaron's sons inform our understanding of God's calling on our lives today, whether in vocational ministry or daily life?**
* **What does being "clothed" for service mean in a spiritual sense for believers in Christ, and what "garments" should we actively seek to put on daily?**
* **In what specific ways are we called to be set apart for God's purposes in our daily lives, reflecting the holiness and purity required for His service?**

### FAQ
**Why were "coats" specifically mentioned, and what was their significance?**

Answer: The "coats" (Hebrew, _kᵉthôneth_) were the simple, fine linen tunics, serving as the innermost garment for all priests. Their specific mention and material were profoundly significant. Fine linen symbolized purity and righteousness, essential qualities for anyone ministering in the presence of a holy God. The simplicity of the _kᵉthôneth_ also conveyed humility, serving as a foundational layer upon which the more elaborate garments (for the High Priest) were worn. It signified that purity of heart and a humble spirit were the most fundamental requirements for service, preceding any outward adornment or elevated status. This garment distinguished the priests from common people and marked them as consecrated for sacred duties, embodying the principle that internal holiness must precede external service.

**Did Aaron's sons wear only these "coats" for their priestly duties?**

Answer: No, the "coats" were the foundational and innermost garments, but not the only ones. [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments") details the full array of garments for both Aaron and his sons. For Aaron's sons, in addition to the linen tunic (_kᵉthôneth_), they also wore linen breeches (undergarments), sashes, and turbans. These garments were all specifically designed by God to convey holiness, beauty, and distinction, ensuring that the priests were properly arrayed for their sacred service in the Tabernacle and that their appearance reflected the sanctity of their office and the purity required for their duties.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 40:14, with its focus on the meticulous clothing and consecration of Aaron's sons for priestly service, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Covenant priesthood, with its hereditary succession, prescribed garments, and repeated sacrifices, pointed forward to the coming of a superior High Priest who would not be limited by human lineage or earthly rituals. Jesus, as the [Great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, the Great High Priest") according to the order of Melchizedek ([Hebrews 7:11-17](/hebrews/7-11-17 "Hebrews 7:11-17 - A Priest Like Melchizedek")), did not need to be "clothed" with symbolic garments to be consecrated; He was inherently pure, holy, and perfectly qualified for His divine office. His "clothing" was His own perfect righteousness and sinless life, culminating in His self-sacrifice on the cross, which perfectly atoned for sin once and for all ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). Through His finished work, the need for a human, hereditary priesthood to mediate between God and humanity was superseded. Now, all believers are made part of a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")) through their union with Christ, clothed not with linen tunics but with His righteousness ([Isaiah 61:10](/isaiah/61-10 "Isaiah 61:10 - Clothed in Garments of Salvation")) and empowered by the Holy Spirit to draw near to God directly through Him, with full confidence and access to the Father ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Confidence to Enter the Most Holy Place")).

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

Isaiah 44:3

For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring:

Isaiah 44:5

One shall say, I [am] the LORD'S; and another shall call [himself] by the name of Jacob; and another shall subscribe [with] his hand unto the LORD, and surname [himself] by the name of Israel.

Isaiah 61:10

¶ I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh [himself] with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth [herself] with her jewels.

Romans 8:30

Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.

1 Corinthians 1:9

God [is] faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 Corinthians 1:30

But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:

John 1:16

And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.