And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His glorified form could be recognized by John, who saw it at the transfiguration.
In the midst - implying Christ's presence and ceaseless activity in the midst of His people on earth. In Revelation 4:1-11, appearing in heaven, His insignia undergo a corresponding change; even there the rainbow reminds us of His everlasting covenant.
Seven. Omitted in A C; so 'Aleph (') B.
Son of man. The form which John had seen enduring the agony of Gethsemane, and the shame of Calvary, he now sees glorified. His glory as Son of man (not merely Son of God) is the fruit of His humiliation.
Down to the foot - marking high rank. The garment and girdle are emblems of His priesthood. Compare Exodus 28:2; Exodus 28:4 [the same word in the Septuagint as here; podeeree (G4158)], Exodus 28:31; Exodus 28:42; Exodus 39:27-29; Septuagint Aaron's robe and girdle were "for glory and beauty," combining the insignia of royalty and priesthood, characteristic of Christ's king priesthood "after the order of Melchisedec." His being in the midst of the candlesticks (only seen in the temple), shows it is as king-priest. He is so attired. This priesthood He has exercised since His ascension; and therefore wears its emblems. As Aaron put on the holy white linen tunic х kªtonet (H3801)], for making the atonement, then assumed his usual 'golden vestments,' when he came forth from the sanctuary to bless the people (Leviticus 16:4; Leviticus 16:23-24), so when Christ shall come again, He shall appear in similar attire of 'beauty and glory' (margin, Isaiah 4:2). The angels are attired like their Lord (Ezekiel 9:2; Ezekiel 9:11; Daniel 10:5; Revelation 15:6). The ordinary girding for active work was at the loins; but Josephus ('Antiquities,' 3: 7, 2) tells us the Levitical priests were girt higher, about the paps, appropriate to calm, majestic movement. The girdle bracing the frame symbolizes collected powers. Righteousness and faithfulness are Christ's girdle (Isaiah 11:5). The high priest's girdle was only interwoven with gold, but Christ's all of gold: the antitype exceeds the type.