Exodus 28:34
A golden bell and a pomegranate, a golden bell and a pomegranate, upon the hem of the robe round about.
Original Language Analysis
זָהָ֖ב
A golden
H2091
זָהָ֖ב
A golden
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
2 of 10
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
וְרִמּ֑וֹן
and a pomegranate
H7416
וְרִמּ֑וֹן
and a pomegranate
Strong's:
H7416
Word #:
3 of 10
a pomegranate, the tree (from its upright growth) or the fruit (also an artificial ornament)
זָהָ֖ב
A golden
H2091
זָהָ֖ב
A golden
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
5 of 10
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
וְרִמּ֑וֹן
and a pomegranate
H7416
וְרִמּ֑וֹן
and a pomegranate
Strong's:
H7416
Word #:
6 of 10
a pomegranate, the tree (from its upright growth) or the fruit (also an artificial ornament)
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
7 of 10
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Historical Context
The alternating pattern ensured both elements appeared throughout the hem's circumference. Neither dominated; both were essential. The bells would ring with each movement, audibly announcing the priest's presence and activity.
Questions for Reflection
- How does your life alternate between witness (bells) and fruit (pomegranates)?
- Why are both proclamation and demonstration necessary in ministry?
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Analysis & Commentary
Golden bells alternate with pomegranates around the hem—'a golden bell and a pomegranate, a golden bell and a pomegranate.' The pattern shows that testimony (bells) and fruit (pomegranates) are equally important and inseparable. Witness without fruit is hollow noise; fruit without witness is hidden light. Christ's ministry perfectly combines proclamation with demonstration, word with deed, sound with substance. True ministry alternates between speaking and showing, sound and fruit.