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Book of Exodus - Chapter 39 - Verse 26

39:26
A bell and a pomegranate, a bell and a pomegranate, round about the hem of the robe to minister in; as the LORD commanded Moses.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Exodus in the Bible, the mention of a bell and a pomegranate being placed round about the hem of the robe is significant in the context of the priestly garments described in the following verses. The bells are said to be alternate with pomegranates, serving as decorative elements on the clothing of the priests who ministered in the tabernacle. The sound of the bells ringing as the priest moved about signified the presence of the minister before the Lord as well as the importance of the priest's role in the service of God. The pomegranate, on the other hand, symbolizes fertility, abundance, and righteousness in Jewish tradition. By wearing these garments as instructed by the Lord, the priests were set apart and consecrated for their holy work. Through this symbolic clothing, the priests were reminded of their sacred duties and encouraged to carry them out faithfully. This verse serves as a reminder of the reverence and respect the priests were expected to have when approaching the Lord's presence.

Theological Overview

One interpretation of the verse about the bells and pomegranates on the hem of the robe is that they symbolize the importance of both sound and fruitfulness in the ministering of God's chosen priests. The bells were thought to represent the calling or proclamation of the priest's duty to serve the Lord and the people, while the pomegranates symbolized the spiritual and physical fruitfulness that comes from obeying God's commands. The alternating pattern of bell and pomegranate also served as a reminder to the priests of the balance needed in their ministry - to both proclaim the word of the Lord and bear fruit through their actions and service. The repetition of the bells and pomegranates in the verse emphasizes the meticulous attention to detail that was required in carrying out the Lord's commands, showing the importance of faithful obedience even in seemingly small matters.

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