Exodus 28

1. Calling of the Priests (Exodus 28:1)
Chosen Men: Aaron (Moses' brother) and his sons—Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar—were appointed as priests.

Role: They were to serve in the tabernacle as intermediaries between God and the people.

2. Purpose of the Garments (Exodus 28:2–5)
"For glory and for beauty": The garments signified the honor of the priestly office and visually demonstrated holiness.

Materials: Blue, purple, scarlet yarns, fine linen, and gold—symbolizing royalty, purity, and divinity.

3. Components of the High Priest's Garments
a. The Ephod (Exodus 28:6–14)
A sleeveless garment, like an apron, made with fine materials and gold thread.

Two onyx stones on the shoulders engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel—symbolizing that the priest bore the people before God.

b. The Breastpiece of Judgment (Exodus 28:15–30)
Square, with 12 precious stones, each engraved with the name of a tribe.

Contained the Urim and Thummim, used for discerning God’s will.

Worn over the heart—showing that the priest carried Israel close to his heart in prayer.

c. The Robe of the Ephod (Exodus 28:31–35)
All blue, with bells and pomegranates on the hem.

The bells would sound as the priest moved, indicating he was still alive in God’s holy presence.

d. The Turban and Plate (Exodus 28:36–38)
A gold plate engraved with “HOLY TO THE LORD” was fastened to the priest’s forehead.

Signified the priest’s consecration and bore the guilt of the holy offerings.

e. Other Garments (Exodus 28:39–43)
Tunics, sashes, and caps for Aaron and his sons.

Linen undergarments to cover their nakedness—emphasizing modesty and holiness.

These garments were required when entering the tabernacle, under penalty of death if neglected.

Key Takeaways:
Holiness is Essential: The detailed clothing laws highlight the need for purity and reverence when approaching God.

Representation: The high priest symbolically carried the whole nation before God, pointing forward to Jesus, our ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 4:14).

God Desires Beauty and Order in Worship: The garments weren’t just functional—they reflected God’s glory and were crafted with excellence.