Exodus 39:28
And a mitre of fine linen, and goodly bonnets of fine linen, and linen breeches of fine twined linen,
Original Language Analysis
וְאֵת֙
H853
וְאֵת֙
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
1 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַמִּצְנֶ֣פֶת
And a mitre
H4701
הַמִּצְנֶ֣פֶת
And a mitre
Strong's:
H4701
Word #:
2 of 12
a tiara, i.e., official turban (of a king or high priest)
שֵׁ֥שׁ
linen
H8336
שֵׁ֥שׁ
linen
Strong's:
H8336
Word #:
3 of 12
bleached stuff, i.e., white linen or (by analogy) marble
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
שֵׁ֥שׁ
linen
H8336
שֵׁ֥שׁ
linen
Strong's:
H8336
Word #:
7 of 12
bleached stuff, i.e., white linen or (by analogy) marble
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
8 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
מִכְנְסֵ֥י
breeches
H4370
מִכְנְסֵ֥י
breeches
Strong's:
H4370
Word #:
9 of 12
(only in dual) drawers (from concealing the private parts)
Historical Context
The linen breeches, worn underneath outer garments, prevented any exposure during ministry, especially when ascending altar steps. This modesty requirement (contrast with pagan worship's sometimes lewd practices) emphasized YHWH's holiness and the reverence due Him. The priests' complete covering, head to loins, visually communicated holiness.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the requirement for complete covering (head to loins) teach reverence in approaching God?
- What does Christ clothing believers in His righteousness reveal about grace enabling holy access?
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Analysis & Commentary
The mitre (מִצְנֶפֶת, mitsnefet, turban) for Aaron, bonnets (מִגְבָּעוֹת, migba'ot, caps) for his sons, and linen breeches (מִכְנְסֵי־בָד, michnesei-vad) for modesty complete the priestly wardrobe. The head coverings distinguish office (Aaron's elaborate mitre vs. sons' simpler caps) while the linen breeches ensure modesty in God's presence (Exodus 28:42-43). The emphasis on covering (head to loins) teaches that approaching God requires complete, proper attire—not casual or careless. Christ, perfectly clothed in righteousness, grants believers proper covering for divine presence.