The Hebrew word tashbêts, represented by H8665, describes checkered stuff (as reticulated); broidered. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its singular usage places it exclusively within the context of the sacred garments designated for the priesthood.
The sole appearance of H8665 is in Exodus 28:4, where God commands the creation of holy garments for Aaron and his sons. The verse lists a "breastplate, and an ephod, and a robe, and a broidered coat, a mitre, and a girdle." Here, tashbêts modifies the word for "coat" H3801, indicating a specific, decorative style of checkered or embroidered fabric required for this piece of priestly attire, which was necessary for them to "minister unto me in the priest's office" Exodus 28:4.
Several other terms for priestly garments appear alongside H8665 in its only context:
- H3801 kᵉthôneth (a shirt; coat, garment, robe): This is the garment that H8665 specifically describes. Beyond the high priest's "broidered coat," coats of this type were also made for Aaron's sons Exodus 28:40 and, in a different context, for Joseph by his father Genesis 37:3.
- H2833 chôshen (breastplate): Listed immediately before the broidered coat, this was the gorget of the high priest. It was an item of "cunning work" Exodus 39:8 and held the Urim and the Thummim Leviticus 8:8.
- H4598 mᵉʻîyl (a robe): Also part of the holy garments Exodus 28:4, this term refers to an upper or outer garment. It is also used metaphorically in scripture, such as the "robe of righteousness" Isaiah 61:10.
- H4701 mitsnepheth (mitre): This term refers to the official turban or "diadem" worn by the high priest as part of his holy attire Exodus 28:4. The holy crown was placed upon the mitre Exodus 29:6.
The theological weight of H8665 is tied directly to its role in the consecration of the priesthood.
- Sacred Vestments: Its use highlights the specificity and divine ordinance behind the priests' clothing. The "broidered coat" was not an ordinary garment but part of a set of "holy garments" H6944 made for Aaron and his sons Exodus 28:4.
- Set Apart for Service: The detailed nature of the "broidered" work signifies the distinction and honor of the priestly office. These garments were made so that Aaron could minister to God, setting him apart for his sacred duties.
- Prescribed Worship: The command to make H6213 this specific type of coat underscores the principle that approaching God required adherence to His precise instructions, extending even to the materials and craftsmanship of clothing.
In summary, H8665 is a term with a singular, focused purpose. It is used only once to describe the "broidered coat" H3801 of the high priest. While its rarity limits its scope, its context within the creation of holy garments in Exodus 28:4 gives it significance, illustrating the importance of detail, craftsmanship, and divine instruction in preparing items for sacred use in worship.
TRV