King James Version

What Does Exodus 39:28 Mean?

Exodus 39:28 in the King James Version says “And a mitre of fine linen, and goodly bonnets of fine linen, and linen breeches of fine twined linen, — study this verse from Exodus chapter 39 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And a mitre of fine linen, and goodly bonnets of fine linen, and linen breeches of fine twined linen,

Exodus 39:28 · KJV


Context

26

A bell and a pomegranate, a bell and a pomegranate, round about the hem of the robe to minister in; as the LORD commanded Moses.

27

And they made coats of fine linen of woven work for Aaron, and for his sons,

28

And a mitre of fine linen, and goodly bonnets of fine linen, and linen breeches of fine twined linen,

29

And a girdle of fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet , of needlework ; as the LORD commanded Moses.

30

And they made the plate of the holy crown of pure gold, and wrote upon it a writing, like to the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The mitre (מִצְנֶפֶת, mitsnefet, turban) for Aaron, bonnets (מִגְבָּעוֹת, migba'ot, caps) for his sons, and linen breeches (מִכְנְסֵי־בָד, michnesei-vad) for modesty complete the priestly wardrobe. The head coverings distinguish office (Aaron's elaborate mitre vs. sons' simpler caps) while the linen breeches ensure modesty in God's presence (Exodus 28:42-43). The emphasis on covering (head to loins) teaches that approaching God requires complete, proper attire—not casual or careless. Christ, perfectly clothed in righteousness, grants believers proper covering for divine presence.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The linen breeches, worn underneath outer garments, prevented any exposure during ministry, especially when ascending altar steps. This modesty requirement (contrast with pagan worship's sometimes lewd practices) emphasized YHWH's holiness and the reverence due Him. The priests' complete covering, head to loins, visually communicated holiness.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the requirement for complete covering (head to loins) teach reverence in approaching God?
  2. What does Christ clothing believers in His righteousness reveal about grace enabling holy access?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 12 words
וְאֵת֙1 of 12
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַמִּצְנֶ֣פֶת2 of 12

And a mitre

H4701

a tiara, i.e., official turban (of a king or high priest)

שֵׁ֥שׁ3 of 12

linen

H8336

bleached stuff, i.e., white linen or (by analogy) marble

וְאֶת4 of 12
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

פַּֽאֲרֵ֥י5 of 12

and goodly

H6287

an embellishment, i.e., fancy head-dress

הַמִּגְבָּעֹ֖ת6 of 12

bonnets

H4021

a cap (as hemispherical)

שֵׁ֥שׁ7 of 12

linen

H8336

bleached stuff, i.e., white linen or (by analogy) marble

וְאֶת8 of 12
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

מִכְנְסֵ֥י9 of 12

breeches

H4370

(only in dual) drawers (from concealing the private parts)

הַבָּ֖ד10 of 12

and linen

H906

flaxen thread or yarn; hence, a linen garment

שֵׁ֥שׁ11 of 12

linen

H8336

bleached stuff, i.e., white linen or (by analogy) marble

מָשְׁזָֽר׃12 of 12

of fine twined

H7806

to twist (a thread of straw)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 39:28 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Exodus 39:28 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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