Exodus 39 5

Exodus 39:5 kjv

And the curious girdle of his ephod, that was upon it, was of the same, according to the work thereof; of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen; as the LORD commanded Moses.

Exodus 39:5 nkjv

And the intricately woven band of his ephod that was on it was of the same workmanship, woven of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet thread, and of fine woven linen, as the LORD had commanded Moses.

Exodus 39:5 niv

Its skillfully woven waistband was like it?of one piece with the ephod and made with gold, and with blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and with finely twisted linen, as the LORD commanded Moses.

Exodus 39:5 esv

And the skillfully woven band on it was of one piece with it and made like it, of gold, blue and purple and scarlet yarns, and fine twined linen, as the LORD had commanded Moses.

Exodus 39:5 nlt

The decorative sash was made of the same materials: finely woven linen embroidered with gold and with blue, purple, and scarlet thread, just as the LORD had commanded Moses.

Exodus 39 verses

Exodus 39 5 Meaning

Exodus 39:5 describes the skilled craftsmanship and specific materials used for the elaborately woven band (often called a "girdle" or "curious girdle") of the high priest's ephod. This band was integral to the ephod's structure, designed to secure it firmly and ensure the breastplate remained in its proper position. Its composition matched that of the ephod itself, using threads of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen, all woven together with exceptional skill, as commanded by the Lord to Moses.

Exodus 39 5 Context

Exodus 39 forms part of a larger section (chapters 35-40) detailing the meticulous execution of the Tabernacle and priestly garments, exactly "as the Lord commanded Moses." This verse, specifically in the context of the ephod, describes the actual making of a key component of the high priest's attire, which was previously commanded in Exodus 28. It highlights the divine precision required for all elements of the Tabernacle service, emphasizing God's detailed plan for worship. Historically, the Tabernacle was the central place of worship for Israel during their wilderness wanderings, signifying God's presence among His people. The priestly garments, like the ephod and its girdle, were not mere clothing but were imbued with symbolic significance, representing holiness, glory, and the sacred role of the priesthood in mediating between God and His people.

Exodus 39 5 Word analysis

• And the curious girdle: הַחֵ֙שֶׁב֙ (ha-ḥêšeḇ). Ḥêšeḇ means a band, belt, or girdle, particularly one requiring cunning or skillful workmanship. It wasn't a separate belt worn over the ephod, but an integral part of the ephod itself, specifically designed to secure it and the breastplate. This highlights the intricate skill involved in its creation, divinely imparted to the artisans.
• of his ephod: הָאֵפֹ֖ד (hā-ʾēfōd). The ephod was a sleeveless garment or apron worn by the high priest, intricately woven. It served as a base for the breastplate and symbolized the high priest's role in bearing the names of Israel before God. Its holy function demanded materials and craftsmanship of the highest order.
• that was upon it: The girdle was intricately woven onto and around the ephod, securing it in place when worn. This indicates a seamless and unified design, crucial for the proper function of the ephod and breastplate.
• was of the same: Literally "of it," referring to the ephod's own material and composition. This stresses the uniformity of the band's material with the main body of the ephod, ensuring a consistent message of glory and holiness throughout the priestly attire.
• according to the work thereof: כְּמַעֲשֵׂ֑הוּ (kə-maʿăśêhū). Emphasizes that the workmanship (maʿăśêhū) of the girdle mirrored that of the ephod, indicating a specific, divine pattern or method was followed meticulously. It speaks to obedience and adherence to God's precise instructions for the Tabernacle and its components.
• of gold: זָהָב (zāhāḇ). Gold throughout scripture symbolizes divinity, purity, glory, royalty, and imperishable value. Its use signifies the sacredness of the priestly office and its connection to God's presence.
• blue: תְּכֵלֶת (təḵēleṯ). A highly prized blue-violet dye, often associated with the heavens, divinity, and heavenly glory. It evokes a sense of God's omnipresence and divine revelation, reminding the high priest of his service before the heavenly King.
• and purple: וְאַרְגָּמָן֙ (wə-ʾarəgāmān). A regal dye, symbolizing royalty, sovereignty, and wealth. Its presence speaks to the majesty of God and the kingly aspect of His priesthood, anticipating Christ as King-Priest.
• and scarlet: וְשָׁנִי֙ (wə-šānî). A rich red dye, often associated with life, sacrifice, blood atonement, and purification. It foreshadows the blood of Christ's perfect sacrifice for sin.
• and fine twined linen: וְשֵׁ֣שׁ מָשְׁזָ֑ר (wə-šêš māšəzār). Fine white linen, renowned for its purity, righteousness, and holiness. It represents the moral purity required for those who minister before God, and ultimately, Christ's perfect righteousness.
• Words-group analysis:
  • "Curious girdle of his ephod": This phrase specifically refers to the intricately woven belt or band that was an integral part of the ephod, demonstrating sophisticated artistry in its design and execution. Its "curious" nature refers to its elaborate and skillful construction, rather than an unusual appearance.
  • "Of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen": These five materials represent a composite picture of divine glory, royalty, sacrifice, purity, and preciousness. Together, they illustrate the multi-faceted nature of the Tabernacle and priestly garments, pointing ultimately to the perfections of the High Priest, Jesus Christ. This specific combination is seen repeatedly in the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasizing the consistency of divine symbolism.

Exodus 39 5 Bonus section

The consistent use of the five key materials (gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen) across many Tabernacle components, including the coverings, the veil, and the priestly garments, creates a unified theological message. This deliberate repetition underscores that every aspect of the wilderness sanctuary system pointed to God's holiness, presence, and the coming redemption through the ultimate High Priest. The integration of the girdle "of the same" materials into the ephod (Exod 28:8 describes it as of one piece with the ephod, literally from the same materials and continuous weave) signifies that there are no lesser parts in God's divine plan; every detail holds significance and contributes to the whole purpose of drawing near to a holy God.

Exodus 39 5 Commentary

Exodus 39:5 illustrates the meticulous obedience to divine command in crafting the high priest's garments, specifically the intricately woven girdle of the ephod. This verse is not merely a material description but a testament to the theological significance imbued in every detail of the Tabernacle. The girdle, crafted from the same costly and symbolic materials—gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine linen—as the ephod itself, signifies uniformity in holiness and purpose. Gold speaks of divine nature, blue of the heavens and God's holiness, purple of royalty and God's sovereignty, scarlet of atonement and the sacrificial blood, and fine linen of purity and righteousness. These materials collectively proclaim God's majesty and the perfect standard required in His worship. The emphasis on "cunning work" and precise execution ("according to the work thereof") highlights that sacred service is to be carried out not with human innovation, but with divinely instructed skill and unwavering obedience, ultimately reflecting the perfection of the Lord.