EXODUS 28

DETAILS OF THE PRIESTLY GARMENTS 

God gives detailed instructions for holy garments to be worn by the priests, Aaron and his sons.

They are to be gold, blue, purple, and scarlet, the same colors as the tabernacle. The names of the twelve sons of Jacob are represented, engraved on two onyx stones, six on each shoulder of the ephod, in birth order. Twelve different gemstones are set on the breastplate of judgment, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel.

The robe is decorated with pomegranates and bells along the hem. The sound of the bells signaled the priest’s movement within the holy space and possibly served as a sign to others that he remained alive in God’s presence.

The purpose of this clothing is for both glory and beauty. They are to be made by people whom God has given skills of craftsmanship. When it pertains to His tabernacle, God cares about beauty, craftsmanship, and quality.