The Bells on the Priest's Robe: A Symbol of the Apostles

Justin Martyr offers a fascinating interpretation of the Old Testament, viewing many of its elements as foreshadowing aspects of Christianity. One particularly intriguing example is his understanding of the bells attached to the high priest's robe.

The Symbolism Explained

According to Justin, the prescription for twelve bells to be attached to the high priest's robe, which hung down to the feet, served as a symbol of the twelve apostles. These apostles, he argues, depend on the power of Christ, whom he identifies as the eternal Priest. It is through the apostles' voices that the entire earth has been filled with the glory and grace of God and of His Christ.

Scriptural Support

Justin supports his interpretation with references to scripture. He cites Psalm 19:4, "Their sound has gone forth into all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world," attributing it to David. He also references Isaiah, presenting it as if Isaiah were personating the apostles, acknowledging their reliance not on their own report, but on the power of the one who sent them. Justin quotes Isaiah 53:1-2: "Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed? We have preached before Him as if [He were] a child, as if a root in a dry ground.'"

Unity in Christ

Justin emphasizes that even though the apostles are many, they are united as one in Christ. He draws an analogy to the human body, where numerous members comprise a single entity. Similarly, he states that a commonwealth and a church, despite consisting of many individuals, are effectively one, called and addressed by a single appellation.

Conclusion

Justin concludes that by examining the appointments of Moses, one can demonstrate that they were types, symbols, and declarations of events that would happen to Christ, those who would believe in Him, and the actions of Christ Himself. This interpretation highlights the interconnectedness between the Old and New Testaments, portraying the former as a prefiguration of the latter. While the exact number of bells is not explicitly mentioned in Exodus 28:33, Justin's interpretation provides a rich symbolic meaning, linking the priestly garments to the role of the apostles in spreading the Gospel.