High Priest's Garments
Gold, blue, purple, and scarlet - the high priest's vestments were so elaborate they took skilled craftsmen to make. Every element carried meaning: the twelve stones on the breastplate, the bells on the hem, the golden crown inscribed "Holy to the Lord."
Worn by the high priest in the tabernacle, these garments of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, fine linen, and precious stones set apart Aaron and his successors for sacred service before God. The intricate design, particularly the breastplate with its twelve stones representing Israel's tribes, illustrated the priest carrying the people on his heart in continual intercession. In this way the vestments pointed ahead to Christ in his role as mediator, embodying the holiness and representation essential to redemption.
Details
- Significance
- Each element represented aspects of Christ's mediatorial work. The twelve stones represented the tribes carried on the priest's heart before God.
- Materials
- Gold, blue, purple, scarlet thread, fine linen, precious stones
Key Chapters
Key Passages
Garments Described
Exodus 28:1-14
These instructions show how God lovingly equips His priests with beauty and holiness to represent His people in His presence.
1nd take thou unto thee Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him, from among the children of Israel, that he may minister unto me in the priestโs office, even Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaronโs sons.
The Breastplate
Exodus 28:15-30
The breastplate shows how the high priest carried God's people close to his heart, reminding us of God's tender care and faithful intercession.
15nd thou shalt make the breastplate of judgment with cunning work; after the work of the ephod thou shalt make it; of gold, of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, and of fine twined linen, shalt thou make it.
Christ Our High Priest
Hebrews 4:14-16
This passage shows Jesus as our understanding high priest who welcomes us to approach God boldly for mercy and grace.
14eeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.
Did You Know?
The high priest wore special garments including the ephod, breastpiece, and turban with a gold plate.
The breastpiece had twelve precious stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel.
The gold plate on the turban read 'Holy to the Lord,' reminding everyone of the priest's role.