Garments of the High Priest
Author: Leusden, Johannes, 1624-1699.
Image Title: Garments of the High Priest
Scripture Reference:
- Exodus 28 (further images / scripture text)
- 1 Samuel 28 (further images / scripture text)
Description: This page illustrates the garments of a Jewish High Priest in Ancient Israel. Image I shows the priestly undergarments, MI?N?SE-?A?, which were "linen undergarments" worn by the priests and the High Priest according to Exodus 28:42. They were entirely hidden by the priestly tunic and extended from the waist to the knees. Image II shows the fine linen tunic worn over the undergarments that left only the feet, hands, neck and head exposed. Image III adds the girdle or sash wrapped around the waist and tied in the front of the body, letting the excess fabric dangle from the knot. Image IV depicts the turban or mitre, typically made of white, fine linen and wrapped around the head. Image V pictures the Robe of the Ephod, a solid colored tunic with sleeves that extend to the elbows adorned with golden bell and pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet at the bottom hinges. Layered over the Robe of the Ephod is the Ephod itself, a sleeveless garment embroidered with blue, purple scarlet, and gold designs depicted in image VI. Bound to the chest with rings is the breastplate in image VII, which contains 12 precious stones that supposedly held the URIM and THUMMIM, ambiguous Hebrew terms suggesting some quality of divination. Accordingly, the piece is also known as the Breastplate of Judgment and was used to determine God’s will on certain occasions (Exodus 28:30, Samuel 28:6). Image VIII depicts the gold plate worn on the priest’s head just below the turban, which reads “Holiness unto YHWH” in the Hebrew script. An additional image labeled VIII shows the priest with an arm resting on an ox, which was used for animal sacrifice in the rituals of peace and sin offerings performed by the High Priest.
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