Exodus 28:32
And there shall be an hole in the top of it, in the midst thereof: it shall have a binding of woven work round about the hole of it, as it were the hole of an habergeon, that it be not rent. And there shall be an hole in the top of it, in the midst thereof: it shall have a binding of woven work round about the hole of it, as it were the hole of an habergeon, that it be not rent.
This direction was part of God's detailed and specific instructions for the clothing of those who ministered before Him in the tabernacle and in the holy place. It was among His special instructions for the dress of those who ministered in His service. Those instructions required that the priests' garments be made with care and in a particular style. That carefulness in dress expressed the order, cleanliness, and reverence required in worship and sacred service.
The priestly robes were symbolic, showing that dress can represent the one who wears it and that God cares about the clothing of those who serve Him. The verse describes the blue robe of the high priest, made of costly material with beautiful workmanship befitting his exalted station. It was worn in addition to the linen dress of the common priest and was woven in one piece. Around its skirt it was ornamented with golden bells and pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet, and outside of it was worn the ephod.
The verse requires a reinforced, woven binding around the neck opening, like the opening of a coat of armor, so that the robe would not tear. This preservation of the perfection of the dress represented the sacredness of the heavenly service. A high priest tearing his robe therefore violated the law and marred that representation.