Commentary

What does Exodus 28:15 mean?

“And thou shalt make the breastplate of judgment with cunning work; after the work of the ephod thou shalt make it; of gold, of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, and of fine twined linen, shalt thou make it.” — Exodus 28:15

Commentary Devotional Prayer

Exodus 28:15 in the King James Version of the Bible reads, "And thou shalt make the breastplate of judgment with cunning work; after the work of the ephod thou shalt make it; of gold, of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, and of fine twined linen, shalt thou make it."

This verse is part of a passage in the book of Exodus that provides detailed instructions for the construction of the priestly garments for the high priest of Israel. The breastplate of judgment, which is the specific focus of this verse, was a significant and symbolic part of the high priest's attire. It was worn on the ephod, a ceremonial apron, and held twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The breastplate was a visual representation of the high priest's role as mediator between God and the people of Israel, and it was used to seek divine guidance and discern God's will.

The craftsmanship of the breastplate was of utmost importance, as it was to be made with "cunning work." This phrase highlights the skill and attention to detail required to create this piece of clothing, emphasizing the importance of honoring God through the quality of the work. The use of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen in the construction of the breastplate symbolizes the wealth, royalty, and purity associated with the priestly office. Gold represents divinity and purity, while blue, purple, and scarlet are colors often associated with royalty and wealth. The use of fine twined linen speaks to the importance of purity and cleanliness in the presence of God.

The breastplate of judgment had a crucial function in the religious practices of ancient Israel. It was worn during the high priest's interactions with God, serving as a tool for seeking guidance and making decisions. The breastplate was also used to determine the will of God in matters of national importance, as the high priest would consult it to make decisions on behalf of the entire community. The choice of precious stones for the breastplate symbolizes the value and significance of the twelve tribes of Israel in God's eyes, as well as the high priest's responsibility to represent and intercede for all of them.

In a broader sense, the breastplate of judgment can be seen as a symbol of the priestly office and its role in facilitating communication between God and humanity. The meticulous construction of the breastplate reflects the importance of approaching God with reverence and care, as well as the need for spiritual discernment and wisdom in seeking divine guidance. The use of precious stones not only points to the value of the people of Israel but also signifies the beauty and richness of the relationship between God and His chosen people.

The themes of mediation, guidance, and divine communication are central to the significance of the breastplate of judgment. It represents the high priest's role as an intermediary between God and the people, as well as the importance of seeking and discerning God's will in all matters. The craftsmanship and materials used in its construction serve as symbols of reverence, purity, and the preciousness of the relationship between God and His people.

In conclusion, Exodus 28:15 and the passage describing the construction of the breastplate of judgment carry profound spiritual and symbolic significance. The careful craftsmanship and choice of materials point to the reverence and care with which the high priest approached his role, as well as the value and significance of the relationship between God and His people. This verse reminds believers of the importance of seeking God's will with wisdom and discernment, as well as the role of spiritual leaders in facilitating communication between God and humanity.

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Exodus 28:15-30

Exodus 28:15 - "¶ And thou shalt make the breastplate of judgment with cunning work; after the work of the ephod thou shalt make it; of gold, of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, and of fine twined linen, shalt thou make it."

"¶ And thou shalt make the breastplate of judgment with cunning work; after the work of the ephod thou shalt make it; of gold, of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, and of fine twined linen, shalt thou make it." - Exodus 28:15

And thou shalt make the breastplate of judgment with cunning work; after the work of the ephod thou shalt make it; of gold, of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, and of fine twined linen, shalt thou make it. Foursquare it shall be being doubled; a span shall be the length thereof, and a span shall be the breadth thereof. And thou shalt set in it settings of stones, even four rows of stones: the first row shall be a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle: this shall be the first row. And the second row shall be an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond. And the third row a ligure, an agate, and an amethyst. And the fourth row a beryl, and an onyx, and a jasper: they shall be set in gold in their inclosings. And the stones shall be with the names of the children of Israel, twelve, according to their names, like the engravings of a signet; every one with his name shall they be according to the twelve tribes. And thou shalt make upon the breastplate chains at the ends of wreathen work of pure gold. And thou shalt make upon the breastplate two rings of gold, and shalt put the two rings on the two ends of the breastplate. And thou shalt put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings which are on the ends of the breastplate. 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. And thou shalt make two rings of gold, and thou shalt put them upon the two ends of the breastplate in the border thereof, which is in the side of the ephod inward. And two other rings of gold thou shalt make, and shalt put them on the two sides of the ephod underneath, toward the forepart thereof, over against the other coupling thereof, above the curious girdle of the ephod. And they shall bind the breastplate by the rings thereof unto the rings of the ephod with a lace of blue, that it may be above the curious girdle of the ephod, and that the breastplate be not loosed from the ephod. And Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the breastplate of judgment upon his heart, when he goeth in unto the holy place, for a memorial before the LORD continually. And thou shalt put in the breastplate of judgment the Urim and the Thummim; and they shall be upon Aaron's heart, when he goeth in before the LORD: and Aaron shall bear the judgment of the children of Israel upon his heart before the LORD continually. (Exodus 28:15-30 KJV)