Exodus 39:24
And they made upon the hems of the robe pomegranates of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and twined linen.
Original Language Analysis
וַֽיַּעֲשׂוּ֙
And they made
H6213
וַֽיַּעֲשׂוּ֙
And they made
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 10
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 10
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
רִמּוֹנֵ֕י
pomegranates
H7416
רִמּוֹנֵ֕י
pomegranates
Strong's:
H7416
Word #:
5 of 10
a pomegranate, the tree (from its upright growth) or the fruit (also an artificial ornament)
תְּכֵ֥לֶת
of blue
H8504
תְּכֵ֥לֶת
of blue
Strong's:
H8504
Word #:
6 of 10
the cerulean mussel, i.e., the color (violet) obtained therefrom or stuff dyed therewith
וְתוֹלַ֣עַת
H8438
וְתוֹלַ֣עַת
Strong's:
H8438
Word #:
8 of 10
a maggot (as voracious); specifically (often with ellipsis of h8144) the crimson-grub, but used only (in this connection) of the color from it, and cl
Historical Context
Pomegranates, abundant in ancient Israel, symbolized fertility and blessing throughout the ancient Near East. Their appearance on the high priest's robe, along with their use in temple decoration (1 Kings 7:18-20), connected priestly ministry with life-giving blessing for God's people.
Questions for Reflection
- How do pomegranates (fruitfulness) combined with sacrificial colors teach that spiritual fruit requires costly service?
- What does Christ's robe producing abundant spiritual offspring reveal about His priesthood's effectiveness?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet adorning the robe's hem symbolize fruitfulness (רִמּוֹן, rimon, pomegranate—abundant seeds). The three colors (heaven, royalty, sacrifice) combine in fruit imagery, teaching that true spiritual fruitfulness requires divine enablement, kingdom authority, and sacrificial service. The pomegranate's many seeds within one fruit illustrate that Christ's one priesthood produces abundant spiritual offspring (Isaiah 53:10-11). The hem placement teaches that even the lowest part of Christ's priestly ministry bears fruit.