Exodus 35:19

and the woven garments for ministering in the holy place--both the holy garments for Aaron the priest and the garments for his sons to serve as priests."

Study Bible

and the woven garments for ministering in the holy place—
The woven garments refer to the sacred attire specifically crafted for the priests who served in the tabernacle. These garments were made with precision and care, symbolizing the holiness and purity required to minister before God. The "holy place" is the inner sanctuary of the tabernacle, where the priests performed their duties. The garments were woven from fine linen, often dyed with colors like blue, purple, and scarlet, which were significant in ancient Israelite culture and represented royalty and divinity. The craftsmanship of these garments reflects the importance of the priestly role and the need for sanctity in worship.

both the holy garments for Aaron the priest
Aaron, the brother of Moses, was appointed as the first high priest of Israel. The "holy garments" for Aaron included the ephod, breastplate, robe, tunic, turban, and sash, each with specific symbolic meanings and functions. These garments set Aaron apart for his unique role as the mediator between God and the Israelites. The high priest's attire was not only a mark of his office but also a representation of the people's relationship with God. The detailed instructions for these garments are found in Exodus 28, emphasizing their significance in the covenantal relationship.

and the garments for his sons to serve as priests.”
Aaron's sons, Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar, were also consecrated as priests. Their garments, while less elaborate than Aaron's, were still significant and included tunics, sashes, and headbands. These garments signified their role in assisting Aaron and performing the daily rituals and sacrifices. The priestly garments for Aaron's sons highlight the hereditary nature of the priesthood in Israel, which was a foreshadowing of the eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ, who serves as our high priest. The consecration of Aaron and his sons is detailed in Leviticus 8, underscoring the importance of purity and dedication in their service.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions from God on Mount Sinai and communicated them to the people.

2. Aaron
The brother of Moses, appointed as the first high priest of Israel, whose holy garments are specifically mentioned.

3. Aaron's Sons
The descendants of Aaron who were also appointed as priests, serving alongside their father.

4. The Sanctuary
The sacred place where God dwelled among His people, also known as the Tabernacle, where the priests performed their duties.

5. The Israelites
The community of God's chosen people who were responsible for contributing materials and skills to create the garments and the Tabernacle.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Holiness
The garments signify the holiness required of those who serve God. As believers, we are called to live holy lives, set apart for His service.

God's Provision and Design
God provided specific instructions for the garments, showing His attention to detail and care for how He is worshiped. We should seek to follow God's design in our lives.

Community Involvement
The Israelites contributed to the making of the garments, illustrating the importance of community in fulfilling God's purposes. We are called to work together in the body of Christ.

Symbolism of the Garments
The priestly garments symbolize righteousness and purity. As Christians, we are clothed in the righteousness of Christ.

Priestly Role of Believers
Just as the priests served in the sanctuary, believers are called to serve God and others, acting as His representatives in the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the instructions for the priestly garments in Exodus 35:19 reflect God's character and His expectations for holiness?

2. In what ways can we, as modern believers, contribute to the "building" of God's kingdom, similar to how the Israelites contributed to the Tabernacle?

3. How does understanding the role of the high priest in the Old Testament enhance our appreciation of Jesus' role as our High Priest?

4. What are some practical ways we can live out our identity as a "royal priesthood" in our daily lives, as described in 1 Peter 2:9?

5. How can the community of believers today support and encourage one another in fulfilling our God-given roles, similar to the Israelites' collective effort in Exodus 35?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28
Provides detailed instructions for the making of the priestly garments, emphasizing their significance and the holiness required for those who serve God.

Leviticus 8
Describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons, highlighting the importance of the garments in their ordination and service.

Hebrews 4:14-16
Connects the role of the high priest in the Old Testament to Jesus as our ultimate High Priest, who intercedes for us.

1 Peter 2:9
Speaks to the priesthood of all believers, drawing a parallel between the Old Testament priesthood and the spiritual role of Christians today.

Revelation 1:6
Refers to believers as a kingdom of priests, underscoring the continuity of the priestly role from the Old Testament to the New Testament.