What is the context?
After describing the sanctuary and its service, God names the family who will serve Him as priests: Aaron and his sons Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar. The appointment comes from God, and Moses is to bring them forward from among Israel.
The garments are holy because they are set apart for this service. The Hebrew verb קָדַשׁ, qadash (kah-DAHSH), used for their consecration, means to set apart or dedicate as sacred (Brown–Driver–Briggs). Skilled craftsmen, whom God has equipped with wisdom for the task, are to make them. Their glory and splendor express the dignity of serving before Him.
The list introduces the breastpiece, ephod, robe, tunic, turban and sash, with instructions for their materials. The chapter will describe Aaron’s special garments and then those of his sons. Their clothing marks the responsibility they receive within Israel’s covenant worship.
How is this passage commonly understood?
The usual reading is that both God’s appointment and the garments set the priests apart for their task. Calvin emphasizes that Aaron does not claim the office for himself. Wesley understands the garments’ beauty as impressing the dignity of the service on both the priests and the people, and sees the craftsmen’s skill as a gift to be used for God.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Hebrews 5:1–10 explicitly uses Aaron’s calling to explain that a high priest is appointed by God. It then speaks of Christ being appointed by the Father, with an everlasting priesthood in the order of Melchizedek. Jesus’ priesthood belongs to God’s saving purpose and is not a role He simply claims for Himself.
Hebrews 2:14–18 also explains why He shares our humanity: He becomes a merciful and faithful high priest who makes atonement and helps those who are tempted. The office introduced here leads into the larger biblical account of the Son who represents people before God and brings them the help they need.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.