Exodus 28:33
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 28:33
33 And beneath upon the hem of it thou shalt make pomegranates of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, round about the hem thereof; and bells of gold between them round about:
Chapter Context
Exodus 28 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of wisdom, sacrifice, worship. 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 reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 28:33
33 And beneath upon the hem of it thou shalt make pomegranates of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, round about the hem thereof; and bells of gold between them round about:
Analysis
Pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet on the robe's hem, alternating with golden bells. Pomegranates symbolize fruitfulness, abundance, life—the fruit of Christ's ministry. The three colors (heaven, royalty, sacrifice) show that fruitful ministry flows from His divine origin, His regal authority, and His atoning death. The hem represents the lowest, most humble part, yet bears the most fruit—Christ's humility produces abundant life for His people.
Historical Context
Pomegranates in ancient Israel represented fertility and abundance, with hundreds of seeds in each fruit. The embroidered or woven pomegranates on the hem created a beautiful, fruit-laden border visible with every step the high priest took.
Reflection
- How does fruit appearing on the 'hem' (humblest part) illustrate that Christ's humility produces abundant life?
- What does the pomegranate's many seeds teach about the multiplication of fruit from Christ's work?