Leviticus 16:23

KJV

And Aaron shall come into the tabernacle of the congregation, and shall put off the linen garments, which he put on when he went into the holy [place], and shall leave them there:

KJV (with Strong's)

And Aaron {H175} shall come {H935} into the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150}, and shall put off {H6584} the linen {H906} garments {H899}, which he put on {H3847} when he went {H935} into the holy {H6944} place, and shall leave {H3240} them there:

Complete Jewish Bible

"Aharon is to go back into the tent of meeting, where he is to remove the linen garments he put on when he entered the Holy Place, and he is to leave them there.

Berean Standard Bible

Then Aaron is to enter the Tent of Meeting, take off the linen garments he put on before entering the Most Holy Place, and leave them there.

American Standard Version

And Aaron shall come into the tent of meeting, and shall put off the linen garments, which he put on when he went into the holy place, and shall leave them there:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 16:23 describes a crucial moment in the Day of Atonement rituals, where Aaron, the High Priest, having completed the most sacred rites within the Most Holy Place, removes the special linen garments he wore for those functions and leaves them within the tabernacle. This act signifies the completion of the central atoning work for himself and the nation of Israel, marking a transition from the unique purity required for direct divine encounter to other priestly duties, while also emphasizing the consecrated nature of the garments themselves to that specific, most holy function.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is intricately woven into the meticulous instructions for Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, as detailed in [Leviticus 16](/leviticus/16 "Leviticus 16 - The Day of Atonement - Yom Kippur"). The preceding verses describe Aaron's solemn entry into the Most Holy Place, first with a bull for his own sin offering and then with a goat for the people's sin offering, applying the blood before the mercy seat. [Leviticus 16:4](/leviticus/16-4 "Leviticus 16:4 - Aaron's Linen Garments for Atonement") explicitly states that Aaron must don "holy linen garments" before performing these innermost sacred acts. The action in [Leviticus 16:23](/leviticus/16-23 "Leviticus 16:23 - Aaron Removes Holy Garments") marks the conclusion of the core atonement rites performed in the Holy of Holies. Immediately following this, [Leviticus 16:24](/leviticus/16-24 "Leviticus 16:24 - Aaron Bathes and Changes Attire") instructs Aaron to bathe and put on his regular, more ornate priestly garments to complete the remaining burnt offerings for himself and the people. This precise sequence underscores a divinely ordained ritual progression, where each phase demands specific attire and actions, emphasizing the distinct holiness and gravity of the Most Holy Place rituals.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) was the most solemn and significant day in the Israelite calendar, the only day the High Priest was permitted to enter the Most Holy Place (the Holy of Holies) to make atonement for the sins of the entire nation. The tabernacle, a portable sanctuary, served as the dwelling place where God's presence resided among His people, structured with an outer court, the Holy Place, and the Most Holy Place. The "linen garments" (Hebrew: *bigde-bad*) were simple, pure white vestments, intentionally distinct from the High Priest's elaborate "garments for glory and for beauty" described in [Exodus 28:2](/exodus/28-2 "Exodus 28:2 - Priestly Garments for Glory and Beauty"). These plain linen garments symbolized humility, purity, and the unadorned holiness required for direct approach to God's presence in the Most Holy Place, contrasting with the splendor associated with his mediatorial role before the people. The act of removing and leaving these garments within the tabernacle underscored their consecrated nature, indicating that they were set apart solely for the unique, once-a-year atonement rites within the innermost sanctuary. This ritual emphasized the gravity of sin and the divine provision for its expiation through a divinely ordained system.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes prevalent in Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. The theme of **Holiness** is paramount, as God's absolute purity necessitates meticulous rituals and specific attire for human approach, particularly into the Most Holy Place where His presence uniquely resided. The concept of **Atonement** is central, with Aaron's actions representing the annual provision for the expiation of Israel's sins, highlighting the need for divine intervention to bridge the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity. Furthermore, the theme of **Mediation** is evident, as Aaron, the High Priest, acts as the sole authorized mediator between God and Israel on this most sacred day. The precise instructions for changing and leaving the garments also reinforce the theme of **Consecration and Separation**, illustrating that certain persons, places, and objects are set apart for sacred use, not to be mixed with the common or profane. This ritual underscores the temporary and provisional nature of the Old Covenant's sacrificial system, pointing forward to a more perfect and enduring solution.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **put off (Hebrew, _pâshaṭ'_):** This verb (H6584) literally means "to strip" or "to unclothe." In the context of Leviticus 16:23, it denotes the act of removing the sacred linen garments. The term implies a deliberate and complete disrobing, signifying the conclusion of the specific ritual phase for which these garments were worn. This act of "stripping off" is not merely a change of clothes but a ritualistic act marking the transition from the most intense encounter with divine holiness to a subsequent phase of priestly duty.
* **linen (Hebrew, _bad'_):** This noun (H906) refers specifically to fine, white flaxen thread or yarn, and by extension, garments made from it. The use of "linen" for the High Priest's special Day of Atonement attire emphasizes purity, simplicity, and humility. Unlike the more ornate and colorful garments worn for other priestly duties, these plain white vestments symbolized the unadorned holiness and moral purity required for approaching God in the Most Holy Place, free from any human embellishment or glory.
* **holy [place] (Hebrew, _qôdesh'_):** This noun (H6944) signifies a "sacred place or thing," or abstractly, "sanctity" or "holiness." In the immediate context of Leviticus 16, particularly after Aaron's entry for atonement, "the holy [place]" refers unequivocally to the Most Holy Place, or Holy of Holies. This innermost sanctuary was the most sacred area of the tabernacle, where the Ark of the Covenant resided and where God's presence was uniquely manifested. Aaron's action of removing the garments after exiting this space underscores the completion of the most critical and dangerous part of his annual duty, performed in the very presence of God's glory.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Aaron shall come into the tabernacle of the congregation,"**: This phrase indicates Aaron's exit from the Most Holy Place (where he performed the core atonement rites) and his re-entry into the Holy Place, the first chamber of the tabernacle accessible to the priests. It marks a crucial transition from the innermost sanctuary, where the blood of atonement was applied, to the immediate outer sacred space, still within the consecrated boundaries of God's dwelling. This movement signifies a shift from the most intense phase of direct divine encounter.
* **"and shall put off the linen garments, which he put on when he went into the holy [place],"**: This is the central command of the verse, detailing the specific action Aaron must take. He is instructed to remove the particular, pure linen garments he wore exclusively for the atonement rituals within the Most Holy Place. The act of "putting off" signifies the completion of that unique, most sacred phase of his duties. The explicit mention of "which he put on when he went into the holy [place]" serves as a precise reminder of the specific garments and the unique, solemn context for which they were designated, underscoring their sacred purpose and the strict adherence to divine protocol.
* **"and shall leave them there:"**: This final directive emphasizes the consecrated nature of these garments and their permanent separation for sacred use. They were not to be taken out of the tabernacle or used for any other purpose. By leaving them "there" (within the sacred precincts of the tabernacle, likely in a designated holy storage area), their unique association with the Day of Atonement's Most Holy Place rituals was preserved, preventing their profanation and signifying that their sacred function for that year was fulfilled. This act also highlights the principle that what is dedicated to God's most holy service remains exclusively His.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several key literary devices to convey its profound theological significance. **Ritual** is paramount, as the entire chapter is a meticulously detailed prescription of specific actions and their precise sequence, emphasizing the divinely ordained and non-negotiable nature of atonement. The changing of garments serves as a powerful **Symbolism**: the plain linen garments symbolize purity, humility, and the unique holiness required for approaching God in the Most Holy Place, while their removal and retention within the tabernacle symbolize the completion of that specific, most sacred work and the consecrated nature of the tools used. There is also an element of **Contrast** between these simple linen garments and the High Priest's more ornate "garments for glory and for beauty" (as seen in [Exodus 28:2](/exodus/28-2 "Exodus 28:2 - Priestly Garments")), highlighting the distinct nature of the atonement ritual compared to other priestly duties. The meticulous detail in the instructions, including the specific attire and its disposition, underscores the **Gravity** and solemnity of the Day of Atonement and the seriousness with which God's presence and sin were to be treated.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 16:23, though a detailed ritual instruction, powerfully conveys profound theological truths about purity, atonement, and the nature of divine access. The High Priest's removal of the linen garments after completing the Most Holy Place rites signifies the culmination of the annual expiation for sin, emphasizing that the work performed within the inner sanctuary was distinct, complete for that year, and uniquely holy. It underscores the concept of a mediated approach to God, where specific conditions, including ritual purity and prescribed attire, were absolutely necessary due to God's inherent holiness and humanity's pervasive sinfulness. The leaving of the garments "there" within the tabernacle reinforces their consecrated status, preventing their use for common purposes and maintaining the sanctity of the atonement process. This act points to a God who demands holiness and provides a meticulous, albeit temporary, means for His people to stand reconciled before Him, demonstrating His commitment to dwell among them despite their sin.

* [Exodus 28:43](/exodus/28-43 "Exodus 28:43 - Garments for Ministry and Atonement")
* [Hebrews 9:7](/hebrews/9-7 "Hebrews 9:7 - High Priest's Annual Entry into the Holy Place")
* [Hebrews 10:1-4](/hebrews/10-1-4 "Hebrews 10:1-4 - The Limitations of Old Covenant Sacrifices")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This ancient ritual, though seemingly distant from our modern lives, offers profound insights into the nature of holiness, devoted service, and the completion of spiritual work. Aaron's careful adherence to divine instruction, including the precise changing of garments, teaches us the importance of reverence, intentionality, and humility in our approach to God and His sacred purposes. Just as Aaron transitioned from one phase of service to another with appropriate attire, we are called to discern and respond to the distinct demands of various spiritual seasons and callings in our lives. This might involve setting aside certain "garments" of our own—habits, attitudes, or worldly attachments that are inappropriate for a particular sacred task—or conversely, "putting on" attitudes of humility, purity, and focused devotion. The act of leaving the garments in the tabernacle reminds us that our service, and the "tools" we use in it, are consecrated to God and not for our own glory or common use. It encourages us to reflect on the completion of God's redemptive work in our lives through Christ, trusting that His provision for atonement is finished, and to live in light of that finished work with appropriate reverence, gratitude, and a willingness to serve Him in whatever capacity He calls, always mindful of His holiness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I need to "put off" certain attitudes or habits that are incongruent with approaching God's holiness and serving His purposes?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater sense of reverence and intentionality in my spiritual disciplines and in the ways I serve God and others?**
* **What does it mean for me to recognize the "finished work" of Christ in my daily life, and how does that truth influence my actions and attitudes?**
* **Are there "garments" of pride, self-reliance, or worldly ambition that I need to "leave behind" in the presence of God, trusting solely in His provision and power?**

### FAQ
**Why did Aaron have to change his clothes after entering the Most Holy Place?**

Answer: Aaron's changing of clothes, specifically from the simple linen garments to his more ornate priestly vestments, was a crucial and symbolic part of the Day of Atonement ritual. The plain linen garments, worn when he entered the Most Holy Place, symbolized humility, purity, and the unadorned holiness required for direct approach to God's presence, where the most critical atonement for sin occurred. These garments were distinct from his regular "garments for glory and for beauty" (as described in [Exodus 28:2](/exodus/28-2 "Exodus 28:2 - Priestly Garments")), which were designed for his public mediatorial role. After completing the unique and intensely sacred work within the Holy of Holies, he was commanded to remove these specific linen garments and leave them within the tabernacle ([Leviticus 16:23](/leviticus/16-23 "Leviticus 16:23 - Aaron Changes Garments")), signifying the completion of that particular, most sacred phase of the ritual and maintaining the consecrated status of the garments themselves. He would then bathe and put on his regular vestments to perform the remaining, less intensely sacred, burnt offerings and final rituals of the day, as detailed in [Leviticus 16:24](/leviticus/16-24 "Leviticus 16:24 - Aaron Bathes and Changes"). This meticulous sequence underscored the distinct requirements and profound significance of each stage of the atonement process, emphasizing the unique holiness of the Most Holy Place.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 16:23, with its detailed account of Aaron's changing of garments after the most sacred act of atonement, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Aaron's repeated actions—his need to change garments, perform annual rituals, and offer sacrifices for his own sins—highlighted the temporary and incomplete nature of the Old Covenant sacrifices. The linen garments, symbolizing purity and humility, were necessary for a sinful high priest to approach a holy God. However, Christ, our true and eternal High Priest, needed no such ritualistic changes or cleansing for Himself. He was inherently pure, "holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens" ([Hebrews 7:26](/hebrews/7-26 "Hebrews 7:26 - Christ Our Perfect High Priest")). Unlike Aaron, who entered the earthly Most Holy Place with the blood of animals, Christ entered the heavenly sanctuary "once for all, having obtained eternal redemption" through His own precious blood ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Eternal Redemption")). He did not need to "put off" any garments of sin or impurity, for He bore none. His sacrifice was a singular, complete, and perfect act, requiring no repetition or symbolic changes of attire, as [Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice") affirms that "we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." Thus, Aaron's meticulous ritual serves as a profound foreshadowing, pointing to the one who would perfectly fulfill all requirements, not by changing garments, but by offering Himself as the spotless Lamb of God, whose atonement is eternally sufficient and forever complete.

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

Ezekiel 44:19

And when they go forth into the utter court, [even] into the utter court to the people, they shall put off their garments wherein they ministered, and lay them in the holy chambers, and they shall put on other garments; and they shall not sanctify the people with their garments.

Ezekiel 42:14

When the priests enter therein, then shall they not go out of the holy [place] into the utter court, but there they shall lay their garments wherein they minister; for they [are] holy; and shall put on other garments, and shall approach to [those things] which [are] for the people.

Philippians 2:6

Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

Philippians 2:11

And [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Leviticus 16:4

He shall put on the holy linen coat, and he shall have the linen breeches upon his flesh, and shall be girded with a linen girdle, and with the linen mitre shall he be attired: these [are] holy garments; therefore shall he wash his flesh in water, and [so] put them on.

Romans 8:3

For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:

Hebrews 9:28

So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.