MitreMAI-ter

Mitre: The High Priest's Sacred Headpiece

The mitre (also spelled miter in American English) was the distinctive turban or headdress worn by the Jewish high priest during Old Testament times. Understanding how to pronounce Mitre correctly—MAI-ter—helps Bible readers engage more confidently with discussions of priestly garments and temple worship.

Etymology and Original Meaning

The English word mitre derives from the Hebrew tsaniyph, which literally means "to wrap" or "to wind." This etymology reflects the garment's construction: a tall, wrapped linen headdress that distinguished the high priest from other Levitical priests who wore simpler turbans. Pronouncing Mitre with emphasis on the first syllable (MAI-ter) reflects the Greek transliteration mitra, which eventually entered English ecclesiastical vocabulary.

Biblical Significance and Scripture References

The mitre appears most prominently in Exodus 28:4 and Exodus 28:37–39, where God commands Moses to create this garment as part of Aaron's priestly regalia. The high priest's mitre was made of fine linen and bore a golden plate on its front inscribed with "Holiness to the Lord" (Exodus 28:36). This golden plate, called the tsits, was fastened to the mitre with a blue cord.

Leviticus 8:9 describes Aaron wearing the mitre during his consecration ceremony, cementing its role in establishing priestly authority and sanctity. The mitre's height and visibility made it a powerful symbol of the high priest's mediation between God and Israel.

Why This Matters for Bible Readers

Grasping the Mitre pronunciation and understanding this garment's purpose enriches your comprehension of Old Testament worship and priestly symbolism. The mitre represented not merely fashion but spiritual authority—a visual reminder that the high priest bore Israel's sins and interceded for the nation. When you encounter references to this headpiece in scripture, recognizing its symbolic weight deepens your appreciation of how God structured Israel's religious life.