And there shall be an hole in the top of it, in the midst thereof: it shall have a binding of woven work round about the hole of it, as it were the hole of an habergeon, that it be not rent.

EXODUS 28:32KJV
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Exodus 28:32 (KJV)

What does Exodus 28:32 mean?

Exodus 28:32 describes how the top of the high priest’s robe should be made, specifying that there must be a hole in the center for the head, with a strong, woven edge around the hole so it does not tear. The verse compares this reinforced opening to the neck-hole of a “habergeon,” which is a type of sleeveless armor.

In this passage, God is giving Moses detailed instructions for making the priestly garments, specifically the robe (or “ephod”) for Aaron, the high priest. The focus is on durability and careful craftsmanship, ensuring the robe will not rip during use. The comparison to armor highlights the importance of strength and protection in the garment’s design.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 28:32

  • “hole” (פֶּה, peh): This word literally means “mouth” but is used here for an opening or hole, emphasizing the idea of an entry point at the top of the robe.
  • “binding” (שָׂפָה, sap̱ah): This means an edge or border, here referring to the reinforced, woven rim around the hole, which would prevent fraying or tearing.
  • “woven” (שָׁזָה, shazah): This word points to something skillfully interlaced, underlining the craftsmanship required for this part of the garment.
  • “habergeon” (תַּחֲרָא, taḥara’): This refers to a type of protective armor, usually a sleeveless coat, suggesting the robe’s neck opening should be as sturdy as military gear to avoid damage.

Why Exodus 28:32 matters

  • This verse shows the level of care and skill expected in items used for worship, emphasizing that sacred things should be made to last and treated with respect.
  • The comparison to armor suggests that the priest’s role was seen as both important and demanding, needing protection and strength even in their clothing.
  • Understanding these details helps clarify the seriousness and reverence surrounding the priesthood in ancient Israel, and how every part of their service was thoughtfully designed.

Where else these words appear

“habergeon” Hebrew H8473 · used in 2 verses

  • Exodus 39:23 And there was an hole in the midst of the robe, as the hole of an habergeon, with a band round about the hole, that it should not rend.

“woven” Hebrew H707 · used in 13 verses

  • Exodus 35:35 Them hath he filled with wisdom of heart, to work all manner of work, of the engraver, and of the cunning workman, and of the embroiderer, in blue, and in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen, and of the weaver, even of them that do any work, and of those that devise cunning work.
  • 1 Samuel 17:7 And the staff of his spear was like a weaver's beam; and his spear's head weighed six hundred shekels of iron: and one bearing a shield went before him.
  • 1 Chronicles 20:5 And there was war again with the Philistines; and Elhanan the son of Jair slew Lahmi the brother of Goliath the Gittite, whose spear staff was like a weaver's beam.

“rent” Hebrew H7167 · used in 60 verses

  • Genesis 37:29 And Reuben returned unto the pit; and, behold, Joseph was not in the pit; and he rent his clothes.
  • 1 Kings 11:12 Notwithstanding in thy days I will not do it for David thy father's sake: but I will rend it out of the hand of thy son.
  • 2 Chronicles 34:27 Because thine heart was tender, and thou didst humble thyself before God, when thou heardest his words against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, and humbledst thyself before me, and didst rend thy clothes, and weep before me; I have even heard thee also, saith the LORD.