ephod

ephod

The priest wears an ephod during the ceremony.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A sacred garment: In ancient Hebrew tradition, an "ephod" is a ceremonial vestment worn by the high priest, typically made of linen and richly embroidered, often associated with religious rituals and divination.
    • An object of worship: In some contexts, an "ephod" could also refer to a portable idol or a cultic object used for oracular purposes, though this usage is less common.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The high priest wore a linen ephod during the sacred ceremony. (A ceremonial garment worn in religious rites.)
    • The biblical account describes the ephod as part of the priestly attire, adorned with precious stones. (A detailed description of the garment's design.)
    • Some scholars believe the ephod was also used as a device for seeking divine guidance. (A reference to its oracular function.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to wear the ephod": to hold the office of high priest or to perform priestly duties.

    • Only the high priest could wear the ephod when entering the Holy of Holies. (A privilege restricted to the highest religious authority.)

  • "the ephod of Gideon": a specific historical or biblical reference to an ephod made from spoils of war, which later became an object of idolatry.

    • Gideon made an ephod from the gold earrings of the defeated Midianites, which led the Israelites astray. (A cautionary tale about misuse of sacred objects.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Ephod (plural: ephods): the standard plural form.

    • The temple treasury contained several ephods used by different priests. (Multiple garments.)

  • Ephod-like (adj): resembling or similar to an ephod in form or function.

    • The ceremonial robe was ephod-like in its elaborate decoration. (Sharing characteristics with the ephod.)
Synonyms
  • Vestment: a ceremonial garment worn by clergy.
  • Priestly robe: a robe worn specifically by a priest during religious services.
  • Sacred apron: a less common term emphasizing the garment's apron-like shape.
Related Idioms

  • "to put on the ephod": to assume priestly authority or responsibility.

    • When the new high priest put on the ephod, the people recognized his sacred role. (A symbolic act of investiture.)

  • "the ephod of judgment": a poetic reference to the garment's association with divine decision-making.

    • The ephod of judgment was consulted before major battles. (A metaphor for seeking divine counsel.)