Leviticus 16:4
He shall put on the holy linen coat, and he shall have the linen breeches upon his flesh, and shall be girded with a linen girdle, and with the linen mitre shall he be attired: these are holy garments; therefore shall he wash his flesh in water, and so put them on.
Leviticus 16:4 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the significance of the garments worn by the priest is highlighted. The holy linen coat, breeches, girdle, and mitre were all essential components of the priestly attire, symbolizing purity, consecration, and separation from the ordinary. The act of putting on these garments was not merely a physical dressing but a spiritual transformation. By wearing these holy garments, the priest was reminded of his role as a mediator between God and the people, representing the sacred and the divine. The requirement to wash his flesh in water before putting on these garments further emphasized the importance of cleanliness and sanctity in serving the Lord. This ritual cleansing was a symbol of spiritual purification and a preparation to enter into the presence of God. Therefore, these holy garments were not just articles of clothing but a visual representation of the priest's dedication to God and his commitment to upholding the holiness of his office.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, we see a detailed description of the sacred attire worn by the high priest in ancient Israel. The significance of these garments goes beyond mere physical clothing; they symbolize purity, holiness, and the importance of proper preparation before approaching the presence of God. The linen coat, breeches, girdle, and mitre were all designated as "holy garments," emphasizing the high priest's role as a mediator between the people and God. The requirement for the priest to wash his flesh in water before putting on these sacred garments serves as a reminder of the spiritual cleansing necessary to come before the Lord. This ritualistic preparation highlights the importance of approaching God with reverence and respect, acknowledging His holiness and our need for purification. As we reflect on this passage, we are reminded of the solemnity and sacredness of serving in God's presence, calling us to prepare our hearts and minds before coming before Him.
Leviticus 16:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
He shall put on the holy linen coat, and he shall have the linen breeches upon his flesh, and shall be girded with the linen girdle, and with the linen mitre shall he be attired: they are the holy garments; and he shall bathe his flesh in water, and put them on.
World English Bible
He shall put on the holy linen coat. He shall have the linen breeches on his body, and shall put on the linen sash, and he shall be clothed with the linen turban. They are the holy garments. He shall bathe his body in water, and put them on.
Douay-Rheims
He shall be vested with a linen tunick: he shall cover his nakedness with linen breeches: he shall be girded with a linen girdle, and he shall put a linen mitre upon his head. For these are holy vestments: all which he shall put on, after he is washed.
Geneva Bible (1599)
He shall put on the holy linnen coate, and shall haue linnen breeches vpon his flesh, and shall be girded with a linnen girdle, and shall couer his head with a linnen miter: these are the holy garments: therefore shall hee wash his flesh in water, when he doeth put them on.