Exodus 28:32

And there shall be an hole in the top of it, in the midst thereof: it shall have a binding of woven work round about the hole of it, as it were the hole of an habergeon, that it be not rent.

And there shall be an hole {H6310} in the top {H7218} of it, in the midst {H8432} thereof: it shall have a binding {H8193} of woven {H707} work {H4639} round about {H5439} the hole {H6310} of it, as it were the hole {H6310} of an habergeon {H8473}, that it be not rent {H7167}.

It is to have an opening for the head in the middle. Around the opening is to be a border woven like the neck of a coat of mail, so that it won't tear.

with an opening at its top in the center. Around the opening shall be a woven collar with an opening like that of a garment, so that it will not tear.

And it shall have a hole for the head in the midst thereof: it shall have a binding of woven work round about the hole of it, as it were the hole of a coat of mail, that it be not rent.

Commentary

Exodus 28:32 (KJV): "And there shall be an hole in the top of it, in the midst thereof: it shall have a binding of woven work round about the hole of it, as it were the hole of an habergeon, that it be not rent."

Context

This verse is part of the detailed instructions given by God to Moses concerning the construction of the sacred garments for Aaron, the high priest, and his sons. Exodus chapter 28 focuses entirely on these specific vestments, which were required for them to minister in the tabernacle. This particular verse describes a crucial detail about the ephod, one of the most significant garments worn by the high priest. It specifies the design of the opening through which the priest's head would pass, emphasizing its construction to ensure durability and prevent tearing during use in sacred service.

Key Themes

  • Divine Attention to Detail: God's precise instructions extend even to the construction of a garment's opening, highlighting the importance of meticulousness in all aspects of worship and service dedicated to Him.
  • Durability and Integrity: The binding around the neck opening, compared to the strength of armor, ensures the ephod's longevity and structural integrity, symbolizing the enduring nature required for the high priest's role.
  • The High Priest's Garments: This detail contributes to the overall description of the sacred garments made for glory and beauty, which set the high priest apart for his unique function representing Israel before God.

Linguistic Insights

The term "habergeon" refers to a sleeveless jacket of mail or scale armor. The comparison here emphasizes the strength and resilience of the woven binding around the ephod's neck opening. Just as armor is designed to be strong and resistant to tearing or piercing, this part of the ephod was constructed with a reinforced edge ("binding of woven work") so that it would not be "rent," meaning torn or ripped. This detail underscores the garment's robust construction necessary for the active duties of the priest.

Reflection

The careful instructions for the high priest's garments, down to the reinforcement of the neck opening, teach us about the significance God places on preparation and integrity in serving Him. The strength built into the ephod, preventing it from being easily torn, can perhaps symbolically remind us of the spiritual resilience and steadfastness required for those who stand in service or leadership before God. It reflects a divine standard of excellence and durability for items dedicated to holy purposes, mirroring the call for believers today to pursue integrity and strength in their walk and work for the Lord, much like the spiritual armor described elsewhere in scripture.

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Cross-References

  • Job 41:26 (2 votes)

    The sword of him that layeth at him cannot hold: the spear, the dart, nor the habergeon.

  • Nehemiah 4:16 (2 votes)

    ¶ And it came to pass from that time forth, [that] the half of my servants wrought in the work, and the other half of them held both the spears, the shields, and the bows, and the habergeons; and the rulers [were] behind all the house of Judah.

  • John 19:23 (2 votes)

    Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also [his] coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout.

  • John 19:24 (2 votes)

    They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did.

  • 2 Chronicles 26:14 (2 votes)

    And Uzziah prepared for them throughout all the host shields, and spears, and helmets, and habergeons, and bows, and slings [to cast] stones.

  • Exodus 39:28 (2 votes)

    And a mitre [of] fine linen, and goodly bonnets [of] fine linen, and linen breeches [of] fine twined linen,

  • Ephesians 4:3 (2 votes)

    Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.