Exodus 28:4
And these are the garments which they shall make; a breastplate, and an ephod, and a robe, and a broidered coat, a mitre, and a girdle: and they shall make holy garments for Aaron thy brother, and his sons, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.
Exodus 28:4 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Book of Exodus describes the instructions given to the Israelites for creating sacred garments for Aaron, the brother of Moses, and his sons. These garments were to be worn specifically for their roles as priests, allowing them to minister in the tabernacle and perform rituals on behalf of the people. The garments mentioned include a breastplate, ephod, robe, broidered coat, mitre, and a girdle, all of which were considered holy and set apart for this sacred purpose. Each piece of clothing had specific symbolic meanings and was intended to reflect the priestly status and responsibilities of Aaron and his sons. By wearing these garments, the priests were not only fulfilling their duties but also embodying a sense of reverence and respect for their role as intermediaries between God and the people.
Theological Overview
In this verse from Exodus, we see a detailed description of the holy garments that were to be made for Aaron, the high priest, and his sons. The garments mentioned - the breastplate, ephod, robe, broidered coat, mitre, and girdle - were not just ordinary clothing, but were specifically designed to be holy garments that would set Aaron and his sons apart for their priestly duties before God. The intricate designs and materials used in the construction of these garments symbolized their sanctity and authority as they ministered in the priest's office. This emphasis on the importance of proper attire in worship highlights the significance of reverence and respect in approaching God. The attention to detail in the construction of these garments underlines the reverence and sacredness with which the priestly duties were to be carried out. Through these holy garments, Aaron and his sons were reminded of their unique role as mediators between God and the people, symbolizing purity, holiness, and devotion in their service to the Lord.
Exodus 28:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
And these are the garments which they shall make: a breastplate, and an ephod, and a robe, and a coat of checker work, a mitre, and a girdle: and they shall make holy garments for Aaron thy brother, and his sons, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.
World English Bible
These are the garments which they shall make: a breastplate, and an ephod, and a robe, and a coat of checker work, a turban, and a sash: and they shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother, and his sons, that he may minister to me in the priest’s office.
Douay-Rheims
And these shall be the vestments that they shall make: A rational and an ephod, a tunic and a strait linen garment, a mitre and a girdle. They shall make the holy vestments for thy brother Aaron and his sons, that they may do the office of priesthood unto me.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Nowe these shall be the garments, which they shall make, a brest plate, and an Ephod, and a robe, and a broydred coate, a miter, and a girdle. so these holy garments shall they make for Aaron thy brother, and for his sonnes, that he may serue me in the Priests office.