Exodus 28:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 28:1
1 And take thou unto thee Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him, from among the children of Israel, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office, even Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron's sons.
Chapter Context
Exodus 28 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of love, sacrifice, wisdom. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-43: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 28:1
1 And take thou unto thee Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him, from among the children of Israel, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office, even Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron's sons.
Analysis
Aaron and his sons are consecrated 'to minister unto me in the priest's office.' God chooses and calls His priests; they don't self-appoint. Aaron represents Christ our High Priest (Hebrews 5:4-5), while Aaron's sons represent believers as a kingdom of priests (1 Peter 2:9). The specific naming (Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, Ithamar) shows that priestly service involves particular callings, not generic spirituality. God knows His servants by name.
Historical Context
From Aaron's line alone could legitimate priests descend, establishing clear succession that would continue until Christ, the ultimate High Priest. This Aaronic priesthood mediated between God and Israel for over a thousand years, until Christ's once-for-all mediation superseded it.
Reflection
- How does God's specific calling of priests encourage you about His particular calling on your life?
- In what ways does Christ fulfill everything Aaron's priesthood foreshadowed?
Cross-References
- References Israel: Deuteronomy 10:6
- Parallel theme: Numbers 18:7, 26:61, 1 Chronicles 6:10