Summary of Meaning

This verse is part of the instructions given by God to Moses regarding the garments for the priests, specifically the priests' undergarments which are to serve as a symbol of modesty and holiness during their sacred duties. The linen breeches were intended to cover the nakedness of the priests, highlighting the importance of purity and the need for proper attire when serving in a holy space.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the necessity of covering oneself in the presence of God, noting that nakedness symbolizes shame and is indicative of human vulnerability. The instructions for the linen breeches reflect the seriousness of the priestly role and the importance of maintaining dignity and decorum in worship.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes highlights that the garments were given to maintain the dignity and reverence necessary for approaching the altar and engaging in other priestly duties. He points out that the specifics of the priest's attire signify the distinction between the holy duties of the priests and the ordinary populace.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke expands on the concept of modesty in worship, indicating that God's requirements for the priests to wear linen breeches show a divine concern for propriety in worship settings. He interprets this as a foundational principle for later practices of modesty observed in other cultures and religions.

Bible Verse Cross-References

This verse links to several other scripture passages that provide further understanding of the themes of modesty, priestly conduct, and divine requirements for worship:

• Leviticus 16:4: "He shall put on the holy linen coat, and he shall have the linen breeches upon his flesh..." - The similar use of linen indicates a consistency in the divine instructions regarding priestly garments.
• Genesis 3:7: "And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together..." - This verse shows the biblical context of nakedness and the cover that God requires through modesty.
• 1 Timothy 2:9: "In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel..." - This New Testament instruction highlights the ongoing Christian principle of modesty in attire.
• Isaiah 61:10: "I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation..." - The theme of being clothed in righteousness and holiness ties back to the priestly garments of Exodus.
• Hebrews 9:6-7: "Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God..." - These verses elaborates on the importance of the priesthood and their holy duties.
• Genesis 35:2: "Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean..." - The call to cleanliness reflects the broader theme of purity required before approaching God.
• Exodus 28:40: "And for Aaron's sons thou shalt make coats, and thou shalt make for them girdles, and bonnets shalt thou make for them, for glory and for beauty." - This verse continues to illustrate the divine instructions on the attire for the priests, reinforcing their special role.

Thematic Bible Verse Connections

The themes of modesty, holiness, and the importance of proper worship attire resonate throughout the Scripture. This verse serves as a link in a larger conversation within the biblical texts surrounding priesthood, worship practices, and divine order.

• Holiness in Worship
• Divine Guidelines for Leadership
• Symbolism in Attire
• Purity and Righteousness
• Modesty in Christian Living

Conclusion

Exodus 28:42 highlights the importance of divine instruction regarding the attire of priests as a means of promoting both modesty and righteousness in worship. It serves as a reminder of the sacredness associated with approaching God and the ongoing relevance of these biblical themes in contemporary life.