Exodus 40:14

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

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

Bring his sons, put tunics on them,

Bring his sons forward and clothe them with tunics.

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

Commentary

Exodus 40:14 details a crucial step in the ordination of Aaron's sons for their sacred duties in the newly completed Tabernacle. This verse is part of God's specific instructions to Moses regarding the final preparations for the dwelling place of His presence among the Israelites.

Context

This verse falls within Exodus chapter 40, which describes the culmination of the Tabernacle's construction and its subsequent dedication. After detailed instructions for its components and the priestly garments (as seen in Exodus 28:4), this chapter outlines the precise steps for its erection and consecration, as well as the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests. The previous verses in chapter 40 focus on the anointing of the Tabernacle itself (Exodus 40:9), and Aaronโ€™s personal washing and anointing (Exodus 40:12).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Ordination and Appointment: The command to "bring his sons, and clothe them with coats" underscores that their role as priests was not self-appointed but divinely ordained. God Himself established the priesthood and its rituals, ensuring that those who served Him were properly prepared and authorized.
  • Holiness and Distinction: The act of clothing them with specific garments was a visible sign of their separation and consecration for holy service. These "coats" (Hebrew: kethoneth), simple linen tunics, were part of the sacred attire designed to signify purity and distinction from the common people. This emphasis on outward appearance reflected an inward spiritual state required for approaching God.
  • Preparation for Service: Just as the Tabernacle itself was meticulously prepared, so too were its ministers. This verse highlights the importance of thorough preparation and adherence to God's instructions for anyone undertaking sacred service. The clothing was not merely decorative but functional and symbolic, equipping them for their unique responsibilities.
  • Succession of Priesthood: By including Aaron's sons, God established a hereditary priesthood, ensuring continuity of service for generations. This laid the foundation for the Levitical priesthood, which would serve Israel for centuries.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "coats" is kethoneth (ื›ึผึฐืชึนื ึถืช). This term generally refers to a tunic or long shirt, often made of linen or wool. In the context of the priestly garments, it specifically denotes the fine linen tunic worn by the priests, which was the innermost garment. Its simplicity and material emphasized purity and humility, serving as a foundational layer for the more ornate garments worn by the High Priest.

Practical Application

While the Levitical priesthood has been fulfilled in Christ, the principles of Exodus 40:14 still resonate with believers today. As followers of Christ, we are called to be a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), offering spiritual sacrifices. This verse reminds us of:

  • The Call to Consecration: Our service to God should be marked by intentional dedication and a willingness to be set apart for His purposes.
  • The Importance of Preparation: Just as Aaron's sons were clothed for service, believers are called to be "clothed" with spiritual virtues like righteousness, humility, and love (Colossians 3:12), equipping us to serve effectively.
  • Obedience to Divine Instructions: God's commands for service, whether in the Old Testament or through New Testament principles, are to be followed carefully.

Exodus 40:14, therefore, is not just a historical instruction but a timeless reminder of the solemnity and specificity involved in serving the Holy God.

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

  • 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

    ยถ 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.
โ† Back