Exodus 39:25

They also made bells of pure gold and attached them around the hem between the pomegranates,

Study Bible

They also made bells of pure gold
The use of gold in the construction of the bells signifies purity and divinity, reflecting the holiness required in the service of the tabernacle. Gold is a recurring symbol of divine presence and glory throughout the Bible, as seen in the construction of the Ark of the Covenant and Solomon's Temple. The bells served a practical purpose, as they would sound when the high priest moved, signifying his presence and activity within the Holy Place. This can be connected to the idea of God's presence being announced, similar to how the sound of a trumpet is used in other parts of Scripture to signify divine intervention or revelation (e.g., Exodus 19:16, 1 Thessalonians 4:16).

and attached them around the hem
The hem of the priestly garment was significant, as it represented the boundary between the sacred and the profane. The attachment of the bells to the hem indicates the importance of the high priest's role in mediating between God and the people. The hem's decoration with bells and pomegranates highlights the beauty and intricacy of the priestly garments, as described in Exodus 28:33-34. This attention to detail underscores the reverence and care required in approaching God, a theme that is echoed in the New Testament with the call for believers to approach God with reverence and awe (Hebrews 12:28).

between the pomegranates
Pomegranates are a symbol of fruitfulness and abundance, often associated with the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 8:8). Their inclusion in the priestly garments may symbolize the blessings and life that come from a relationship with God. The alternating pattern of bells and pomegranates could represent the balance between the proclamation of God's presence (bells) and the fruitfulness of living in accordance with His will (pomegranates). This imagery can be seen as a type of Christ, who is both the Word of God (John 1:1) and the source of spiritual fruitfulness (John 15:5).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people of God who were given the task of constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings according to God's specific instructions.

2. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred garments.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

4. Priestly Garments
Sacred clothing worn by the priests, particularly the High Priest, when ministering in the Tabernacle.

5. Pomegranates and Bells
Decorative elements on the hem of the High Priest's robe, symbolizing fruitfulness and the sound of holiness.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Bells and Pomegranates
The bells signified the presence and movement of the High Priest, ensuring that he was heard as he ministered before the Lord. This can remind us of the importance of being spiritually "heard" through our prayers and actions.

Holiness in Service
The detailed instructions for the priestly garments underscore the holiness required in serving God. As believers, we are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness in our daily actions.

Fruitfulness in Ministry
The pomegranates symbolize fruitfulness. In our spiritual walk, we are called to bear fruit that reflects our faith and commitment to God.

Attention to Detail in Worship
The meticulous construction of the priestly garments teaches us the importance of approaching God with reverence and attention to detail in our worship and service.

Christ as Our High Priest
The role of the High Priest in the Old Testament points to Jesus Christ, our ultimate High Priest, who intercedes for us and has made the final atonement for our sins.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the bells and pomegranates on the High Priest's robe reflect the balance between being heard and bearing fruit in our spiritual lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our service to God is marked by holiness and reverence, similar to the priestly garments?

3. How does the role of the High Priest in the Old Testament enhance our understanding of Jesus' priesthood as described in the book of Hebrews?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our lives are producing spiritual fruit, as symbolized by the pomegranates?

5. How can the concept of being a "royal priesthood" in 1 Peter 2:9 influence our daily interactions and responsibilities as believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Hebrews 9
Discusses the role of the High Priest and the significance of the Tabernacle, drawing parallels to Christ's ultimate priesthood.

1 Peter 2:9
Refers to believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the Old Testament priestly garments to the spiritual garments of righteousness believers wear today.