The cloths of service, to do service in the holy place, the holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priest's office.

EXODUS 35:19KJV
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Exodus 35:19 (KJV)

What does Exodus 35:19 mean?

Exodus 35:19 lists the special clothing and fabrics needed for the priests to serve in the holy place, including the garments for Aaron and his sons as they carry out their priestly duties. This verse highlights the specific items required for the worship and service in the tabernacle, focusing on the clothing set apart for the priests.

In this passage, Moses is speaking to the Israelites as he relays God’s instructions for building and furnishing the tabernacle. The verse comes in the context of a detailed inventory of materials and items needed for worship, showing the importance of proper preparation and the distinct role of the priests. The mention of Aaron and his sons points to their unique responsibilities and the need for them to be set apart through special garments while serving in the sanctuary.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 35:19

  • The word for "cloths" (בֶּגֶד, beged) refers to garments or clothing, emphasizing that these are not ordinary clothes but those designated for sacred use.
  • "Service" appears twice, first as תַּשְׁמֵשׁ (tashmesh), meaning items used for service, and then as שָׁרַת (sharat), meaning to minister or serve, highlighting both the objects and the actions involved in worship.
  • "Holy" (קָדוֹשׁ, qadosh) is used to describe both the place and the garments, underlining their set-apart, dedicated status for God’s purposes.
  • The word for "priest" (כֹּהֵן, kohen) and "office" (כָּהַן, kahan) both relate to priestly service, making clear that these garments are specifically for those serving as priests.

Why Exodus 35:19 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the priests’ clothing was not just decorative but essential for their service, marking them as set apart for holy duties.
  • By listing these items among the tabernacle requirements, the verse shows that proper worship involved both physical preparation and spiritual significance.
  • The focus on Aaron and his sons connects this verse to the larger narrative of the priesthood’s establishment and the ongoing importance of order and holiness in Israel’s worship practices.