Exodus 39:27
And they made coats of fine linen of woven work for Aaron, and for his sons,
Original Language Analysis
וַֽיַּעֲשׂ֛וּ
And they made
H6213
וַֽיַּעֲשׂ֛וּ
And they made
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 8
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
שֵׁ֖שׁ
of fine linen
H8336
שֵׁ֖שׁ
of fine linen
Strong's:
H8336
Word #:
4 of 8
bleached stuff, i.e., white linen or (by analogy) marble
מַֽעֲשֵׂ֣ה
work
H4639
מַֽעֲשֵׂ֣ה
work
Strong's:
H4639
Word #:
5 of 8
an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property
Historical Context
The priestly tunics, worn next to the skin, provided basic covering before the more elaborate outer garments were added. The fine linen's purity requirement (no mixed fibers, Leviticus 19:19) emphasized holiness. All priests shared this foundational garment, emphasizing their common consecration.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the common tunic for all priests illustrate that all believers share Christ's righteousness equally?
- What does fine linen for every priest teach about the dignity God confers on all His ministers?
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Analysis & Commentary
The tunics (כֻּתֳּנוֹת, kutanot, coats) of fine linen for Aaron and his sons emphasize shared priestly dignity—all priests, not just the high priest, received fine garments. The שֵׁשׁ (shesh, fine linen) symbolizes righteousness (Revelation 19:8). While Aaron's additional garments marked his unique high priestly role, the common tunic showed that all priests needed righteous covering. This prefigures believers' common priesthood (1 Peter 2:9)—all receive Christ's righteousness, though offices differ. The plural 'his sons' indicates that priestly ministry continues through successive generations.