Exodus 28:37
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 28:37
37 And thou shalt put it on a blue lace, that it may be upon the mitre; upon the forefront of the mitre it shall be.
Chapter Context
Exodus 28 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, truth, 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 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 28:37
37 And thou shalt put it on a blue lace, that it may be upon the mitre; upon the forefront of the mitre it shall be.
Analysis
The golden plate is fastened with blue lace (cord) to the mitre (turban), positioned on the forefront. Blue (heavenly) cord secures the holiness declaration—God Himself binds this consecration to the priest's mind. The mitre was white linen (righteousness), and the golden plate (divine nature) declaring holiness rests upon it. Christ's mind (pure righteousness) is crowned with divine holiness. His thoughts are God's thoughts; His will is God's will. Perfect human will (linen) united with divine holiness (gold).
Historical Context
The mitre (מִצְנֶפֶת, mitznephet) was a turban of fine linen wound around the head, creating a crown-like appearance. The golden plate's attachment to the forefront made 'HOLINESS TO THE LORD' the most prominent feature of the high priest's appearance.
Reflection
- How does Christ's divine mind (gold plate) united with perfect human will (linen turban) qualify Him as mediator?
- What does it mean that Christ's holiness is both His character and His declaration?