And it shall be upon Aaron's forehead, that Aaron may bear the iniquity of the holy things, which the children of Israel shall hallow in all their holy gifts; and it shall be always upon his forehead, that they may be accepted before the LORD.
EXODUS 28:38KJVWhat does Exodus 28:38 mean?
Exodus 28:38 describes how a special gold plate, worn on Aaron’s forehead, serves to carry or “bear” the responsibility for any faults or shortcomings in the Israelites’ holy offerings, so that their gifts will be accepted by God. This plate is to be worn continually as Aaron represents the people before the LORD.
God is instructing Moses about the garments for Aaron, the first high priest. The gold plate—part of Aaron’s priestly attire—symbolizes Aaron carrying the “iniquity” (wrongdoing or imperfection) of the Israelites’ sacred gifts. This means Aaron stands between the people and God, ensuring their offerings are accepted even if they are not perfect, highlighting the priest’s role as a mediator.
The Hebrew behind Exodus 28:38
- “Forehead” (מֵצַח, mētsaḥ): This word refers to the front part of Aaron’s head where the gold plate is placed. Its visibility emphasizes the public and ongoing nature of Aaron’s intercession.
- “Bear” (נָשָׂא, nāśā’): This word means to carry or take up, and here it suggests Aaron takes on the responsibility for any faults in the holy things, not just physically but spiritually.
- “Iniquity” (עָוֹן, ʿāwōn): This word often refers to guilt or moral failing. In this context, it means any imperfection in the Israelites’ offerings, showing that even sacred gifts can have shortcomings.
- “Accepted” (רָצוֹן, rāṣōn): This word means favor or acceptance. The verse stresses that Aaron’s role and the gold plate are necessary for the Israelites’ gifts to be favorably received by God.
Why Exodus 28:38 matters
- Exodus 28:38 clarifies that even the Israelites’ best offerings could have flaws, and God provided a way for these to be accepted through the high priest’s mediation.
- The verse highlights the seriousness of approaching God and the need for continual representation by the high priest, not just a one-time act.
- This detail connects to the broader passage about priestly garments, showing that every part of the high priest’s clothing had a symbolic and practical purpose in Israel’s worship.