Exodus 28:42 - Printer Friendly

ESV: You shall make for them linen undergarments to cover their naked flesh. They shall reach from the hips to the thighs;

NIV: "Make linen undergarments as a covering for the body, reaching from the waist to the thigh.

NASB: You shall make for them linen undergarments to cover their bare flesh; they shall reach from the waist even to the thighs.

CSB: Make them linen undergarments to cover their naked bodies; they must extend from the waist to the thighs.

NLT: Also make linen undergarments for them, to be worn next to their bodies, reaching from their hips to their thighs.

KJV: And thou shalt make them linen breeches to cover their nakedness; from the loins even unto the thighs they shall reach:

NKJV: And you shall make for them linen trousers to cover their nakedness; they shall reach from the waist to the thighs.

Exodus 28:40–43 requires specific garments for Israel's priests. These are all male descendants of Aaron (Exodus 40:13–15; Numbers 3:10). Priestly garments are not as ornate as those for the high priest. God commands beautiful attire including caps, sashes, and coats. All priests, including the high priest, are to wear linen undergarments to ensure modesty.

The Lord will assign Aaron and his descendants to be Israel's priests (Numbers 3:10). In this chapter, God describes the priestly garments worn for this office. They are to be beautiful and made with great skill. A high priest's uniform included a breastpiece, a sleeveless smock called an "ephod," as well as a robe, coat, turban, and sash. Other priests wore caps, sashes, coats, and linen underclothes made for their roles. Some items are explained in detail. These garments embody various elements of worship under the Mosaic covenant.

Israel arrived at Sinai (Exodus 19:1–3) where God began to declare His laws (Exodus 19:5–6). These began with the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1–17) and assorted rules (Exodus 21—23). The Lord also explained designs for His sanctuary and its accessories (Exodus 25—27). This chapter specifies how to make priestly garments, beginning with those of the high priest. The following passage shows how to consecrate the priests (Exodus 29) before returning to describe the last items to be constructed (Exodus 30).

The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.

Accessed 7/4/2025 3:32:34 AM