Exodus 39:29

And a girdle [of] fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet, [of] needlework; as the LORD commanded Moses.

And a girdle {H73} of fine twined {H7806} linen {H8336}, and blue {H8504}, and purple {H713}, and scarlet {H8144}{H8438}, of needlework {H7551}{H4639}; as the LORD {H3068} commanded {H6680} Moses {H4872}.

and the sash of finely woven linen and blue, purple and scarlet yarn, the work of a weaver in colors - as ADONAI had ordered Moshe.

and the sash of finely spun linen, embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, just as the LORD had commanded Moses.

and the girdle of fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet, the work of the embroiderer; as Jehovah commanded Moses.

Commentary

Exodus 39:29 describes a specific component of the sacred garments worn by the priests in ancient Israel: the girdle. This verse emphasizes the meticulous detail and divine instruction behind the construction of the Tabernacle and everything associated with its service, underscoring the importance of precise obedience to God's commands.

Context

This verse is part of the concluding chapters of Exodus, which detail the construction and completion of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the priestly vestments, according to the exact specifications given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. Chapter 39 specifically recounts the making of the holy garments for Aaron and his sons. The "girdle" mentioned here is a sash for the priestly tunic, essential for securing the garments and signifying readiness for service. The repeated phrase, "as the LORD commanded Moses," throughout this chapter highlights the absolute faithfulness of the craftsmen and the Israelites in executing God's divine blueprint for worship and His dwelling among His people (Exodus 25:8).

Key Themes

  • Divine Authority and Obedience: The constant refrain "as the LORD commanded Moses" is central, emphasizing that every detail of worship and service was prescribed by God Himself. This teaches that true worship is not invented by man but is a response to God's revealed will.
  • Holiness and Purity: The materials chosen, particularly the "fine twined linen," symbolize purity and righteousness. The priests, who mediated between God and Israel, had to be ritually pure and clothed in garments that reflected the holiness of their office (Leviticus 21:6).
  • Beauty and Excellence in Worship: The inclusion of "needlework" and rich colors indicates that God desires not only obedience but also beauty and excellence in the things dedicated to Him. The garments were not just functional but also visually splendid, reflecting the majesty of God.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "girdle" here is 'abnet (ืึทื‘ึฐื ึตื˜), which specifically refers to the sash worn by the priests, distinguishing it from a general belt. It signifies readiness for service and the securing of other garments. The term "needlework" (Hebrew: raqam, ืจึธืงึทื) implies intricate embroidery or variegated work, showcasing a high level of skilled craftsmanship and artistic detail in the creation of these sacred items.

Symbolism and Significance

The colors and materials of the priestly girdle carry significant symbolic meaning:

  • Fine Twined Linen: Represents purity, righteousness, and holiness. It suggests the clean hands and pure hearts required for service to God.
  • Blue: Often symbolizes heaven, the divine, and God's commandments, pointing to the heavenly origin of the Tabernacle's design and the divine nature of the service.
  • Purple: Signifies royalty, majesty, and kingship, emphasizing God's supreme authority and the royal priesthood of His people.
  • Scarlet: Can symbolize life, sacrifice, and atonement, often linked to blood and the redemptive work necessary for man to approach a holy God.

Together, these elements underscored the sacredness of the priestly office and the divine character of the worship conducted in the Tabernacle.

Practical Application

Exodus 39:29 reminds us that God is a God of order and detail, and He values both obedience and excellence in our service to Him. While we no longer have a literal Tabernacle or need specific priestly garments, the principles remain:

  • Attention to Detail: Our service to God should not be haphazard but intentional and with excellence, reflecting the honor due to Him.
  • Purity in Service: Just as the priests needed to be ritually clean, we are called to live holy lives, cleansed by Christ's blood, as we serve God.
  • Obedience to God's Word: The repeated phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses" serves as a timeless reminder that our spiritual practices and lives should be founded upon and guided by God's revealed Word.

Ultimately, these Old Testament priestly garments foreshadow the perfect and ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who fulfilled all these symbolic requirements through His perfect life, once-for-all sacrifice, and entry into the true heavenly sanctuary (Hebrews 9:12, Hebrews 9:24).

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Cross-References

  • Exodus 28:39 (2 votes)

    And thou shalt embroider the coat of fine linen, and thou shalt make the mitre [of] fine linen, and thou shalt make the girdle [of] needlework.