Exodus 28:35
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 28:35
35 And it shall be upon Aaron to minister: and his sound shall be heard when he goeth in unto the holy place before the LORD, and when he cometh out, that he die not.
Chapter Context
Exodus 28 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of love, wisdom, faith. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 28:35
35 And it shall be upon Aaron to minister: and his sound shall be heard when he goeth in unto the holy place before the LORD, and when he cometh out, that he die not.
Analysis
The purpose: Aaron must wear it 'when he ministereth,' and 'his sound shall be heard when he goeth in...and when he cometh out...that he die not.' The bells announce the priest's movements—entering God's presence and returning. The sound assures both God and Israel that the priest lives and ministers successfully. Christ's priestly work is both audible (announced, proclaimed) and effective (He lives and intercedes). The bells prevent death by ensuring proper approach—we hear Christ's ongoing intercession (Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25).
Historical Context
The bells' ringing served practical and theological purposes: practically, they announced the high priest's location and activity within the tabernacle; theologically, they demonstrated that he remained alive in God's presence—a sound of ongoing successful mediation.
Reflection
- How does 'hearing' Christ's ongoing intercession give you confidence in prayer?
- What does the connection between sound and life teach about assurance of accepted mediation?
Word Studies
- Holy: קָדוֹשׁ (Qadosh) H6944 - Holy, set apart
Cross-References
- Holy: Hebrews 9:12