Exodus 39 – Are you dead?

“The also made bells of pure gold, and put the bells between the pomegranates all around on the hem of the robe, alternating a bell and a pomegranate all around on the hem of the robe for the service, just as the Lord had commanded Moses.”

I’m working from memory here because I did not take the time to look it up, but I think the bells on the priestly garment had a purpose. I believe the bells existed so that if the priest acted improperly while in the tabernacle (e.g. touching the Ark of the Covenant) and dropped dead the other priests would hear that the bells would no longer ringing and be able to drag the body out with a rope tied around the priest’s ankle.

I am thankful to live in a time when I can approach God and not fear for my life. I know some Christians who believe this has led us to disrespect God, but I prefer a God we can approach to a God who is ready to strike us dead. Punishment does not necessarily breed respect.