Exodus 28:1-30

28:1 | The preparation for formally establishing Israel’s priesthood begins here. Aaron and his sons were appointed Yahweh. Their principal function, according to the Lord, was to minister to Me through the administration of the temple and its sacrifices. From this point forward, all true priests in Israel were to be descended from Aaron’s line (Heb. 5:4).

28:2-39 | The priestly garments were made by gifted artisans and included some of the same materials as the curtains of the tabernacle, plus gold and precious stones. The high priest’s clothing in particular signified dignity and honor and served as a constant reminder of the Lord’s holiness.

28:6-21 | The ephod was a two-part, sleeveless outer garment that covered the priest’s upper body. The names of Israel’s 12 tribes were engraved on the stones at the shoulders so that as Aaron entered the tabernacle, he would bear Isarel’s names before the Lord. Aaron’s breastplate bore 12 precious gems. Each stone was also inscribed with the name of one of the sons of Israel, showing that the priest represented all 12 tribes.