Read the Daily Bible Verse – Exodus 28:36 To Strengthen Your Spiritual Journey.
Exodus 28:36 provides a rich and symbolic glimpse into the holiness required of those who serve in God‘s presence. This verse describes the engraving of a golden plate, known as the “Holy Crown,” to be worn by the high priest. The inscription on this plate, “HOLINESS TO THE LORD,” encapsulates the central theme of sanctity and consecration in the priestly service. By examining its context, meaning, and application, we can draw profound lessons for our spiritual lives. This article explores the context of Exodus 28:36, its meaning, practical applications, and relevance to modern believers, while comparing it with other biblical texts and offering a commentary to deepen our understanding.
The Context on Exodus 28:36 KJV
Exodus 28 details the instructions for making the sacred garments worn by Aaron, the first high priest, and his descendants. These garments were not ordinary clothing; they were meticulously designed to reflect the holiness, beauty, and significance of the priestly office. Among these garments was a golden plate, part of the high priest’s headgear, described in Exodus 28:36: “And thou shalt make a plate of pure gold, and grave upon it, like the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD.” (KJV)
The golden plate, referred to as the “Holy Crown,” was fastened to the front of the high priest’s turban with a blue cord, resting on his forehead. It symbolized the high priest’s consecration to God and his role as an intermediary between the people and the Lord. The phrase “HOLINESS TO THE LORD” declared that the high priest and the offerings he presented were wholly dedicated to God.
This verse is part of a larger section (Exodus 28:31–38) that describes the garments of the high priest, emphasizing their sacred function and the need for purity in service.
The Exodus 28:36 Meaning
At its core, Exodus 28:36 emphasizes the absolute holiness required in approaching God. The golden plate inscribed with “HOLINESS TO THE LORD” held both symbolic and practical significance.
Symbolism of Gold
Gold, being one of the most precious metals, signifies purity, value, and divine glory. The use of pure gold for the plate reflects the perfection and sanctity of God’s nature. It also underscores the high priest’s responsibility to approach God with the utmost reverence.
The Engraving
The phrase “HOLINESS TO THE LORD” was engraved like a signet, a practice used for seals of authority and ownership. This engraving declared that the high priest was set apart for God’s service, bearing His name and authority.
Placement on the Forehead
The forehead is symbolic of the mind and thoughts. Placing the plate on the high priest’s forehead signified that his thoughts, actions, and intentions were to be fully consecrated to God. This was a public declaration of the priest’s role as a mediator who carried the sins and guilt of the people into God’s presence.
Purpose in Worship
The golden plate was not just ornamental; it had a spiritual purpose. It served as a reminder to the people of Israel and the high priest himself that everything in worship—sacrifices, offerings, and even the priest’s service—must align with God’s holiness.
Exodus 28:36 Application in Life
The principles embodied in Exodus 28:36 remain relevant for believers today. While the ceremonial priesthood has been fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the call to holiness is unchanging. Here are some applications of this verse in daily life:
Holiness in Thought and Action
Just as the golden plate was placed on the high priest’s forehead, believers are called to dedicate their minds and actions to God. Romans 12:1–2 echoes this, urging Christians to offer their bodies as living sacrifices and to renew their minds.
Bearing God’s Name
The inscription “HOLINESS TO THE LORD” is a powerful reminder that believers bear God’s name as His representatives in the world. This calls for lives that reflect His holiness, as emphasized in 1 Peter 1:15–16: “Be ye holy; for I am holy.”
Intercessory Role
While Christ is the ultimate High Priest, believers are called to be a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). This includes interceding for others and presenting their needs before God with pure intentions.
Dedication to Worship
The golden plate highlights the importance of intentionality in worship. Whether through prayer, song, or service, our worship should reflect God’s holiness and be offered with reverence.
Comparison with Other Biblical Texts
Exodus 28:36 is part of a broader biblical narrative emphasizing holiness and consecration. Several texts parallel and complement its message:
Leviticus 20:7–8
“Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the Lord your God.” This command echoes the call to holiness inscribed on the golden plate. It reflects the consistency of God’s requirement for His people to be set apart.
Isaiah 6:3
The seraphim in Isaiah’s vision declare, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts.” This thrice-repeated declaration emphasizes God’s absolute holiness, which the golden plate symbolized.
Hebrews 4:14–16
This passage speaks of Jesus as the ultimate High Priest who fulfills the role symbolized by the high priest in Exodus. While Aaron wore a golden plate declaring “HOLINESS TO THE LORD,” Jesus embodied perfect holiness.
Revelation 19:8
In the New Testament, the church is described as wearing fine linen, symbolizing the righteous acts of the saints. This imagery parallels the garments of the high priest, pointing to the believer’s call to holiness.
Modern-Day Relevance
In today’s world, the principles of Exodus 28:36 remain as relevant as ever. The golden plate’s inscription reminds believers of their identity and purpose in Christ:
A Call to Holiness
In an age where moral relativism often prevails, Exodus 28:36 challenges Christians to uphold God’s standards of holiness. This involves rejecting sin and striving for righteousness in thought, word, and deed.
Living as God’s Representatives
Just as the high priest bore the inscription “HOLINESS TO THE LORD,” Christians today are called to be ambassadors of Christ. This involves living in a way that reflects His character and brings glory to His name.
The Importance of Worship
In a fast-paced, convenience-driven culture, Exodus 28:36 reminds us to approach worship with reverence and intentionality. Worship is not a casual activity but a sacred offering to a holy God.
Interceding for Others
The high priest’s role as an intermediary is a reminder of the Christian’s responsibility to pray for others and lead them toward God’s presence.
Conclusion
Exodus 28:36 is a profound verse that encapsulates the themes of holiness, consecration, and dedication to God. The golden plate inscribed with “HOLINESS TO THE LORD” serves as a powerful reminder of the sacredness of the priestly role and the importance of living a life wholly devoted to God.
For modern believers, this verse offers both a challenge and an encouragement. It challenges us to live lives that reflect God’s holiness and honor His name, while encouraging us with the reminder that through Christ, the ultimate High Priest, we too are set apart as a royal priesthood.
In understanding and applying the lessons of Exodus 28:36, we are reminded that our lives, like the high priest’s garments, are to be dedicated to God’s glory, marked by holiness, and lived with reverence and purpose.
Exodus 28:36 Commentary
Biblical commentators emphasize the centrality of holiness in this verse. Matthew Henry, for example, notes that the golden plate served as a constant reminder of the sanctity required in worship and the high priest’s role in bearing the sins of the people. The phrase “HOLINESS TO THE LORD” was not just a declaration but a standard by which the priest and the nation of Israel were to live.
John Gill highlights the symbolism of the engraving as a mark of ownership and consecration. The high priest, as a servant of God, bore this inscription to signify that his service was not for personal gain but for the glory of God.
Modern commentators often draw parallels between the golden plate and the believer’s identity in Christ. Just as the high priest was set apart, Christians are called to be holy and dedicated to God’s purposes.
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