Commentary on Exodus 28:33
Verse: “And beneath upon the hem of it thou shalt make pomegranates of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, round about the hem thereof; and bells of gold between them round about:” (Exodus 28:33)
Introduction
This verse is part of the instructions given to Moses concerning the garments of Aaron, the high priest. The detailed description of the high priest’s attire signifies the importance of holiness and beauty in the service of God. The pomegranates and bells are symbolic elements which invite theological reflection and practical application for the modern believer.
Symbolism of the Pomegranates
- Fragrance and Fertility: As noted by Matthew Henry, the pomegranate is a symbol of abundance and blessing. It represents the fruits of the Spirit and the blessings of God upon His people.
- God’s Covenant: Albert Barnes highlights that the pomegranate is associated with the fulfillment of God’s promises, indicating that the priest’s duties were to mediate God's covenants with Israel.
- Life and Resurrection: Adam Clarke suggests that pomegranates also symbolize resurrection and eternal life, drawing parallels with the life that flourishes through adherence to God’s commandments.
The Bells of Gold
- Sound of Worship: The bells serve as a reminder of the continuous worship and exaltation of God. Their sound signifies the reverent approach to God in priestly service, enabling the people to recognize the sacred work being done (Henry).
- Presence and Awareness: Barnes remarks that the sound of the bells would allow the congregation to perceive when the high priest entered the holy place, symbolizing God’s presence among His people.
- Holiness in Service: Clarke points out that the ringing of the bells could also represent a warning to the priest to be mindful of his duties, highlighting the significance of being vigilant and devoted in service.
Combination of Elements
The combination of pomegranates and bells serves not only a decorative purpose but a deeply theological one. Together, they signify the harmony between the fruitfulness of the believer's life and the unceasing call to worship and service.
Theological Implications
- Divine Appointment: The specific instructions given to Moses affirm the sovereign will of God in appointing leaders and establishing worship.
- Holiness of God: The attire of the high priest, marked by pomegranates and bells, illustrates the need for holiness in approaching a holy God.
- Expectancy of Worship: The sound of the bells acted as an anticipatory call to the people, reminding them to prepare their hearts for the worship that was about to occur.
Application for Today
For pastors and leaders, the symbolism of the pomegranates and bells encourages a life that is fruitful in character and sound in testimony. It challenges the contemporary church to maintain a balance between the beauty of holiness and the active worship of God.
- Fruitfulness: Just as the pomegranates represent spiritual fruit, believers are called to bear the fruits of the Spirit as described in Galatians 5:22-23.
- Continuous Praise: The bells serve as a reminder of the need for constant worship, urging everyone to live a life of worship that resonates through their actions and words.
- Vigilance in Ministry: The high priest's duties compel modern leaders to be mindful of their responsibilities and the impact of their ministry on the congregation.
Conclusion
Exodus 28:33 encapsulates profound truths about the nature of priestly service and the calling of God. The imagery of pomegranates and gold bells enriches the understanding of how beauty, worship, and godliness converge in the ministry of the church. It is a call to live a life that reflects the richness of God's blessings while continually proclaiming His goodness through heartfelt worship.
