Mitre

The mitre (Hebrew mitsnepheth, meaning something wound round) was the distinctive turban or head-dress of the Israelite high priest, prescribed as part of the sacred vestments in Exodus 28:4. It consisted of a band of fine white linen approximately eight yards in length, wound into the form of a cap and fitted upon the head. Attached to the front of the mitre by a blue cord was a golden plate engraved with the words HOLINESS TO THE LORD (Ex. 28:36–38; 39:30), which Aaron was to wear on his forehead whenever he entered the sanctuary, bearing the iniquity of the holy offerings that Israel presented to God. The mitre was conferred on Aaron at his consecration by Moses (Lev. 8:9) and distinguished the high priest from ordinary priests, who wore simpler caps (migbaoth). In Ezekiel 21:26 the same Hebrew word is translated "diadem," indicating its royal as well as priestly connotations.