Exodus 28:35

Commentary on Exodus 28:35 (KJV)

Exodus 28:35 is a specific instruction regarding the sacred vestments of Aaron, the first High Priest of Israel. It details a critical element of his priestly robe (the *me'il*), designed to ensure his safety and the sanctity of his service within the Tabernacle.

Context

This verse is part of an extended passage (Exodus 28) where God provides Moses with meticulous instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle and the creation of the priestly garments for Aaron and his sons. These garments were not merely decorative; they were divinely ordained symbols of holiness, authority, and the separation required for those who ministered before God. The robe itself, worn under the ephod, was to have a distinctive hem. Verses Exodus 28:33-34 describe this hem being adorned with alternating golden bells and woven pomegranates, symbolizing beauty, fruitfulness, and the audible presence of the priest.

Key Themes

• Divine Holiness and Awe: The primary message is the absolute holiness of God and the reverence required when approaching His presence. The Tabernacle was the earthly dwelling place of God's glory, and any unauthorized or improper approach could result in death, as seen in other instances like Nadab and Abihu.
• Protection and Atonement: The sound of the bells served as a divine safeguard. As Aaron entered and exited the holy chambers, the continuous sound would signify to the LORD that His appointed priest was alive, properly robed, and ministering according to divine protocol. This audible confirmation ensured his life was preserved, allowing him to perform the necessary rites of atonement for the people.
• Accountability and Order: The verse underscores the immense responsibility and accountability of the high priestly office. Aaron's very life depended on his strict adherence to God's commands regarding his attire and conduct in the Tabernacle. This established a divine order for worship.
• Symbolism of Presence: The bells ensured that the priest's movements were always acknowledged before the LORD, symbolizing his continuous and acceptable service in the sacred space.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "holy [place]" refers primarily to the inner chambers of the Tabernacle—the Holy Place where the altar of incense and table of showbread resided, and by extension, the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies) which Aaron entered only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2). The Hebrew word for "minister" (sharat) carries the connotation of serving in a sacred, official capacity, specifically in priestly duties.

Practical Application

While the Old Covenant Tabernacle and its specific rituals have passed, the principles embedded in Exodus 28:35 remain profoundly relevant.

• Reverence for God: This verse reminds us of God's unchanging holiness and the awe with which we should approach Him. Though we no longer require a physical bell for protection, a humble and obedient heart is essential for drawing near to God.
• Christ, Our High Priest: The need for a perfectly robed and pure priest to approach God foreshadows Christ's perfect priesthood. Jesus, our ultimate High Priest, entered the true heavenly sanctuary, not by the blood of animals, but by His own blood, securing eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:11-12). His "sound" (His perfect sacrifice and intercession) continually assures our access.
• Bold Access: Because of Christ's finished work, believers now have bold access to God's presence, not through fear of death, but with confidence and assurance (Hebrews 4:16). The bells on Aaron's robe pointed to the necessity of an authorized, living representative; Christ is that living representative, always interceding for us.