New International Versionwith an opening in the center of the robe like the opening of a collar, and a band around this opening, so that it would not tear.
New Living Translationwith an opening for Aaron’s head in the middle of it. The opening was reinforced with a woven collar so it would not tear.
English Standard Versionand the opening of the robe in it was like the opening in a garment, with a binding around the opening, so that it might not tear.
Berean Standard Biblewith an opening in the center of the robe like that of a garment, with a collar around the opening so that it would not tear.
King James BibleAnd there was an hole in the midst of the robe, as the hole of an habergeon, with a band round about the hole, that it should not rend.
New King James VersionAnd there was an opening in the middle of the robe, like the opening in a coat of mail, with a woven binding all around the opening, so that it would not tear.
New American Standard Bibleand the opening of the robe was at the top in the center, as the opening of a coat of mail, with a binding all around its opening, so that it would not be torn.
NASB 1995and the opening of the robe was at the top in the center, as the opening of a coat of mail, with a binding all around its opening, so that it would not be torn.
NASB 1977and the opening of the robe was at the top in the center, as the opening of a coat of mail, with a binding all around its opening, that it might not be torn.
Legacy Standard Bibleand the opening of the robe was at the top in the center, as the opening of a coat of mail, with a binding all around its opening, so that it would not be torn.
Amplified Biblethere was an opening [for the head] in the middle of the robe, like the opening in a coat of armor, with a hem around it, so that it would not be frayed or torn.
Christian Standard BibleThere was an opening in the center of the robe like that of body armor with a collar around the opening so that it would not tear.
Holman Christian Standard BibleThere was an opening in the center of the robe like that of body armor with a collar around the opening so that it would not tear.
American Standard Versionand the hole of the robe in the midst thereof, as the hole of a coat of mail, with a binding round about the hole of it, that it should not be rent.
Contemporary English Versionwith an opening in the center for the head. The material around the collar was bound so as to keep it from wearing out.
English Revised Versionand the hole of the robe in the midst thereof, as the hole of a coat of mail, with a binding round about the hole of it, that it should not be rent.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationThe opening in the center of the robe had a finished edge (like a leather collar) all around it to keep it from tearing.
Good News TranslationThe hole for the head was reinforced with a woven binding to keep it from tearing.
International Standard VersionThe opening of the robe was in the middle, like the opening of a coat of mail, with a binding around the opening so it would not be torn.
NET BibleThere was an opening in the center of the robe, like the opening of a collar, with an edge all around the opening so that it could not be torn.
New Heart English BibleThe opening of the robe in its midst was like the opening of a coat of mail, with a binding around its opening, that it should not be torn.
Webster's Bible TranslationAnd there was a hole in the midst of the robe, as the hole of an habergeon, with a band around the hole, that it should not rend. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard Biblewith an opening in the center of the robe like that of a garment, with a collar around the opening so that it would not tear.
World English BibleThe opening of the robe in the middle of it was like the opening of a coat of mail, with a binding around its opening, that it should not be torn. Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionand the opening of the upper robe [is] in its midst, as the opening of a [linen] habergeon, [with] a border for its opening all around; it is not torn;
Young's Literal Translation and the opening of the upper robe is in its midst, as the opening of a habergeon, a border is to its opening round about, it is not rent;
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd the mouth of the robe in the midst of it as the mouth of a coat of mail, a lip to its mouth round about, it shall not rend. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd little bells of the purest gold, which they put between the pomegranates at the bottom of the tunick round about:
Catholic Public Domain Versionand little bells from the purest gold, which they set between the pomegranates at the very bottom of the tunic all around.
New American Biblewith an opening in its center like the opening of a shirt, with selvage around the opening to keep it from being torn.
New Revised Standard Versionand the opening of the robe in the middle of it was like the opening in a coat of mail, with a binding around the opening, so that it might not be torn. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd the opening of the robe was within it, as the hole of a coat of mail, with a binding round about the opening, that it might not be torn.
Peshitta Holy Bible TranslatedAnd the opening of the apron inside was as an opening of cords, the rim finishing its opening in a circle, that it would not rip. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917and the hole of the robe in the midst thereof, as the hole of a coat of mail, with a binding round about the hole of it, that it should not be rent.
Brenton Septuagint TranslationAnd the opening of the tunic in the midst woven closely together, the opening having a fringe round about, that it might not be rent.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Additional Priestly Garments22They made the robe of the ephod entirely of blue cloth, the work of a weaver, 23with an openingin the centerof the robelike thatof a garment,with a collararoundthe openingso that it would nottear.24They made pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and finely spun linen on the lower hem of the robe.…
Cross References Exodus 28:32with an opening at its top in the center. Around the opening shall be a woven collar with an opening like that of a garment, so that it will not tear.
Leviticus 8:7-9He put the tunic on Aaron, tied the sash around him, clothed him with the robe, and put the ephod on him. He tied the woven band of the ephod around him and fastened it to him. / Then he put the breastpiece on him and placed the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece. / Moses also put the turban on Aaron’s head and set the gold plate, the holy diadem, on the front of the turban, as the LORD had commanded him.
Exodus 28:31-35You are to make the robe of the ephod entirely of blue cloth, / with an opening at its top in the center. Around the opening shall be a woven collar with an opening like that of a garment, so that it will not tear. / Make pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn all the way around the lower hem, with gold bells between them, ...
Exodus 28:39-43You are to weave the tunic with fine linen, make the turban of fine linen, and fashion an embroidered sash. / Make tunics, sashes, and headbands for Aaron’s sons, to give them glory and splendor. / After you put these garments on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint them, ordain them, and consecrate them so that they may serve Me as priests. ...
Exodus 28:4These are the garments that they shall make: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a woven tunic, a turban, and a sash. They are to make these holy garments for your brother Aaron and his sons, so that they may serve Me as priests.
Exodus 28:6-14They are to make the ephod of finely spun linen embroidered with gold, and with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn. / It shall have two shoulder pieces attached at two of its corners, so it can be fastened. / And the skillfully woven waistband of the ephod must be of one piece, of the same workmanship—with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with finely spun linen. ...
Exodus 28:15-30You are also to make a breastpiece of judgment with the same workmanship as the ephod. Construct it with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with finely spun linen. / It must be square when folded over double, a span long and a span wide. / And mount on it a setting of gemstones, four rows of stones: In the first row there shall be a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald; ...
Exodus 28:36-38You are to make a plate of pure gold and engrave on it as on a seal: HOLY TO THE LORD. / Fasten to it a blue cord to mount it on the turban; it shall be on the front of the turban. / And it will be worn on Aaron’s forehead, so that he may bear the iniquity of the holy things that the sons of Israel consecrate with regard to all their holy gifts. It shall always be on his forehead, so that they may be acceptable before the LORD.
Exodus 28:1-5“Next, have your brother Aaron brought to you from among the Israelites, along with his sons Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar, to serve Me as priests. / Make holy garments for your brother Aaron, to give him glory and splendor. / You are to instruct all the skilled craftsmen, whom I have filled with a spirit of wisdom, to make garments for Aaron’s consecration, so that he may serve Me as priest. ...
Exodus 28:40-43Make tunics, sashes, and headbands for Aaron’s sons, to give them glory and splendor. / After you put these garments on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint them, ordain them, and consecrate them so that they may serve Me as priests. / Make linen undergarments to cover their bare flesh, extending from waist to thigh. ...
Exodus 28:39You are to weave the tunic with fine linen, make the turban of fine linen, and fashion an embroidered sash.
Exodus 28:8And the skillfully woven waistband of the ephod must be of one piece, of the same workmanship—with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with finely spun linen.
Exodus 28:9-12Take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel: / six of their names on one stone and the remaining six on the other, in the order of their birth. / Engrave the names of the sons of Israel on the two stones the way a gem cutter engraves a seal. Then mount the stones in gold filigree settings. ...
Exodus 28:13-14Fashion gold filigree settings / and two chains of pure gold, made of braided cord work; and attach these chains to the settings.
Exodus 28:15You are also to make a breastpiece of judgment with the same workmanship as the ephod. Construct it with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with finely spun linen.
Treasury of Scripture And there was an hole in the middle of the robe, as the hole of an habergeon, with a band round about the hole, that it should not rend. no reference Jump to Previous BandBindingBorderCenterCloakCoatCollarEdgedFighting-ManGarmentHabergeonHoleMailMiddleMidstOpeningRendRentRobeRoundTearThereofTopTornUpperJump to Next BandBindingBorderCenterCloakCoatCollarEdgedFighting-ManGarmentHabergeonHoleMailMiddleMidstOpeningRendRentRobeRoundTearThereofTopTornUpperExodus 39 1.The cloths of service and holy garments.2.The ephod8.The breast-plate22.The robe of the ephod27.The coats, mitre, and girdle of fine linen30.The plate of the holy crown32.All is finished, reviewed, and approved by Moseswith an opening in the center of the robeThe robe described here is part of the high priest's garments, specifically the ephod, which was worn by Aaron and his descendants. The opening in the center signifies the practical design for ease of wearing, allowing the robe to be slipped over the head. This design reflects the functional aspect of priestly garments, which were meant to facilitate the duties of the priesthood. The central opening also symbolizes the centrality of the priest's role in mediating between God and the Israelites, pointing to the ultimate mediator, Jesus Christ, who is central to the New Covenant. like that of a garment
This phrase indicates that the robe's construction was similar to common garments of the time, suggesting that while the priestly garments were unique in their sacred purpose, they were not entirely alien to the everyday life of the Israelites. This connection to common garments underscores the idea that the priesthood was meant to be relatable and accessible, foreshadowing the incarnation of Christ, who took on human form to relate to humanity. with a collar around the opening
The collar around the opening served both a practical and symbolic purpose. Practically, it reinforced the garment, preventing it from tearing, which would render it unfit for sacred use. Symbolically, the collar represents the completeness and perfection required in the service of God, as any imperfection would be unacceptable. This mirrors the sinless nature of Christ, who fulfilled the law perfectly and serves as our eternal high priest. so that it would not tear
The instruction to prevent tearing highlights the importance of maintaining the integrity of the priestly garments. In biblical symbolism, tearing often represents mourning or judgment (as seen in the tearing of the temple veil at Christ's crucifixion). The untearable nature of the robe signifies the enduring and unbreakable covenant between God and His people, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus, whose sacrifice established a new and everlasting covenant. Persons / Places / Events 1. MosesThe leader of the Israelites who received the instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle and the priestly garments from God on Mount Sinai. 2. Bezalel and OholiabSkilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and the making of the priestly garments, including the robe mentioned in this verse. 3. The TabernacleThe portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites, for which the priestly garments were made. 4. The High PriestThe primary wearer of the robe described in this verse, who served as the mediator between God and the Israelites. 5. The IsraelitesThe people of God, for whom the Tabernacle and the priestly garments were constructed as part of their covenant relationship with God. Teaching Points The Importance of Detail in WorshipThe specific instructions for the robe's construction remind us that God values detail and precision in our worship practices. Our worship should reflect reverence and intentionality. Symbolism of the Robe's DesignThe untearable collar signifies the completeness and perfection required in our approach to God. It symbolizes the seamless nature of Christ's righteousness that covers us. Role of the High PriestThe High Priest's garments, including the robe, were essential for his role as a mediator. This points us to Jesus, our ultimate mediator, who intercedes on our behalf. God's Provision for His PeopleThe detailed instructions and skilled craftsmanship demonstrate God's provision and care for His people, ensuring that they have what is necessary for proper worship. Holiness in ServiceThe robe's design underscores the holiness required in serving God. As believers, we are called to live lives set apart for His service. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Exodus 39:23?
2.How does Exodus 39:23 illustrate the importance of detailed obedience to God?
3.What can we learn from the craftsmanship described in Exodus 39:23?
4.How does the robe's design in Exodus 39:23 connect to New Testament teachings?
5.How can we apply the principle of excellence from Exodus 39:23 today?
6.What does Exodus 39:23 teach about God's expectations for worship and service?
7.What is the significance of the robe's construction in Exodus 39:23 for ancient Israelite worship?
8.How does Exodus 39:23 reflect the craftsmanship valued in the Tabernacle's construction?
9.Why is the robe's seamless design in Exodus 39:23 important for understanding biblical symbolism?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Exodus 39?
11.What does 'goodness and mercy shall follow me' mean?
12.Should you not flee from temptation and idolatry?
13.Exodus 39:22-26: Are there historical or archaeological records to confirm that such finely woven robes, bells, and pomegranates could have been produced by this group at that time?
14.How can the total extermination of Ai's inhabitants (Joshua 8:24-25) be reconciled with a just and loving God?What Does Exodus 39:23 Mean the setting“Exodus 39:23: ‘They made an opening in the center of the robe like the opening of a garment, with a collar around the opening so that it would not tear.’” • This robe is the “robe of the ephod,” part of the high priest’s garments described earlier inExodus 28:31-35 and actually fabricated here inExodus 39. • Its place in the larger tabernacle narrative (Exodus 35-40) shows that God gave precise patterns for worship—patterns Moses and the craftsmen follow “just as the LORD had commanded” (Exodus 39:32). •Leviticus 8:7 later confirms that this very robe was put on Aaron at his ordination, rooting the verse in real history, not symbolism alone.
the practical design• “An opening in the center” allowed the priest to pull the robe over his head effortlessly. • A “collar around the opening” acted like binding tape, the ancient equivalent of hemming a neck hole so the fabric would not fray. • By saying “so that it would not tear,” Scripture highlights durability. God’s instructions protected the garment from damage during daily service (compareNumbers 4:5-15, where priests disassembled the sanctuary).
symbolic significance of the un-torn collar• Wholeness: The seamless opening safeguarded the robe’s integrity—an image of an unbroken relationship between God and His mediator (Psalm 133:1-2, where priestly oil flows “down upon the collar”). • Continuity: A torn robe in Scripture often signals grief or judgment (Joshua 7:6;2 Samuel 13:19). By preventing tearing, God underlines ongoing, unhindered ministry. • Sanctity: Everything worn in the holy place had to be “for glory and for beauty” (Exodus 28:2). A snagged, ripped garment would mar the beauty God required.
foreshadowing christ•John 19:23-24 notes that Jesus’ tunic was “seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom.” The soldiers refused to tear it, unwittingly mirroringExodus 39:23 and confirming Jesus as our ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). • Just as the high priest’s robe remained whole to preserve ministry, Christ’s body, though pierced, was not broken (John 19:36 citingExodus 12:46). God keeps His mediators intact.
application for believers• God cares about details; nothing in worship is accidental (1 Corinthians 14:40). • Durability matters in service. We steward our bodies and resources so they endure for ministry (Romans 12:1). • Unity in the church should be guarded “so that it would not tear” (Ephesians 4:3). The seamless collar challenges us to prevent relational rips.
summaryExodus 39:23 records the careful construction of the high priest’s robe: a central neck opening reinforced by a collar to prevent tearing. The detail shows God’s concern for practical workmanship, highlights the robe’s sanctity, and foreshadows the seamless righteousness and eternal priesthood of Christ. By preserving what is holy from damage, God invites His people to protect the wholeness of worship, ministry, and community today.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew with an openingוּפִֽי־(ū·p̄î-)Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 6310:The mouth, edge, portion, side, according toin the centerבְּתוֹכ֖וֹ(bə·ṯō·w·ḵōw)Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 8432:A bisection, the centreof the robeהַמְּעִ֥יל(ham·mə·‘îl)Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4598:A robelike thatכְּפִ֣י(kə·p̄î)Preposition-k | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 6310:The mouth, edge, portion, side, according toof a garment,תַחְרָ֑א(ṯaḥ·rā)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 8473:A linen corsletwith a collarשָׂפָ֥ה(śā·p̄āh)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 8193:The lip, language, a marginaroundסָבִ֖יב(sā·ḇîḇ)Adverb
Strong's 5439:A circle, neighbour, environs, aroundthe openingלְפִ֛יו(lə·p̄îw)Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 6310:The mouth, edge, portion, side, according toso that it would notלֹ֥א(lō)Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808:Not, notear.יִקָּרֵֽעַ׃(yiq·qā·rê·a‘)Verb - Nifal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7167:To rend
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OT Law: Exodus 39:23 The opening of the robe in its (Exo. Ex) |
