Keraia
Exodus 28

Exodus 28:25

The Breastpiece · Exodus 28:15–30
Read Exodus 28

Translations

Modern
…and fasten the other ends of the two chains to the two filigree settings, attaching them to the shoulder pieces of the ephod at the front.
Traditional
And the other two ends of the two wreathen chains thou shalt fasten in the two ouches, and put them on the shoulderpieces of the ephod before it.
Literal
And the two ends of the two cords you shall put on the two settings, and you shall put them on the shoulder straps of the ephod, toward the front of its face.
Latin
…et ipsarum catenarum extrema duobus copulabis uncinis in utroque latere superhumeralis quod rationale respicit.

Original

Hebrew
English
…and fasten the other ends of the two chains to the two filigree settings, attaching them to the shoulder pieces of the ephod at the front.

Notes

Exodus 28:15–30

The breastpiece receives more attention than any other item. This suggests the breastpiece was very important.

The breastpiece symbolized the priest's representation of Israel (28:17–21, 29). It held the Urim and Thummim, objects through which God revealed his will (28:30).

The high priest had two main tasks. First, he brought the people to God. He represented them before the Lord.

Second, he brought God’s word to the people. He spoke to them on God’s behalf.

The chestpiece stood for both of these duties. It showed that the high priest served as a bridge between God and the people.

Exodus 28:1–43

These holy garments for Aaron were to distinguish him as a priest set apart (Hebrew qadash, “consecrated”) for the Lord's service (28:2, 3). The beauty of these garments matched the beauty of the Tent of Meeting, which was God's portable earthly palace (or tabernacle).

One day, Jesus Christ, the true High Priest, would enter the Most Holy Place once for all. Then the difference between priests and people would disappear (Hebrews 10:11–22). Until then, human mediators represented how Christ would fulfill the types of wonderful things God accomplishes for his people.

Events

Parallels

Exodus 39:8–21

Glossary

Aaron Beauty Biblical Concept of Law Book of Exodus Deuteronomy, Book of Ephod (Garment) History of Israel Leviticus, Book of Memorial Tabernacle Temple

Topics

Breastplate: for High Priest: Directions for the Making of Breastplate: Inseparably United to the Ephod Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: Breastplate Attached To Priest: (The Function he Served Was Superior to That of Other Priests): Vestments of Priest: The Time of Moses: Vestments of The Ephod for the High Priest: Breastplate of Judgment Inseparably United To The High Priest: Special Garments of Breastplate