“And thou shalt take two onyx stones, and grave on them the names of the children of Israel:”
This verse is part of the instructions given to Moses by God for the construction of the priestly garments. In Exodus 28, God outlines in detail the attire that the high priest and other priests should wear when serving in the tabernacle.
Precious Stones:The verse mentions "onyx stones." Onyx is a precious stone known for its beauty and variety of colours, including black, white, and brown. It was often used in ancient times for engraving and setting into jewellery or ornamental objects.
Symbolism of the Onyx Stones:The two onyx stones had specific significance in the priestly garments. They were to be engraved with the names of the twelve sons of Israel, one name on each stone. This had a symbolic purpose of representing the whole community of Israel before God. The high priest, as a representative of the people, carried these stones on his shoulders as a reminder that he bore the responsibility of the entire nation before God.
Remembrance and Intercession:By carrying the names of the children of Israel on his shoulders, the high priest symbolically carried the weight of the people’s needs, concerns, and sins before God. It signified his role as an intercessor between the people and God, making atonement for their sins through the sacrificial system.
Community Identity:Engraving the names of the twelve tribes on the stones served as a reminder of the unity and identity of the Israelite community. Each tribe was unique, yet together they formed one nation under God’s covenant.
Application to Christians:While this instruction was specifically given for the priestly garments in the Old Testament, it can also hold some spiritual lessons for Christians today. The idea of carrying the names of others and interceding for them is reminiscent of the Christian call to pray for one another (1 Timothy 2:1) and to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). It also highlights the importance of unity and fellowship within the Christian community.
God’s Attention to Detail:The intricate instructions given by God for the construction of the priestly garments demonstrate God’s attention to detail and His desire for His people to approach Him with reverence and awe. This principle still applies today, reminding us to approach God with respect and to seek to honour Him in all aspects of our lives.
In summary, Exodus 28:9 emphasises the role of the high priest as an intercessor and representative of the people of Israel before God. The engraved onyx stones with the names of the tribes of Israel symbolise unity, remembrance, and the responsibility of the high priest to bear the burden of the people before God. As Christians, we can draw inspiration from these principles to pray for one another, carry each other’s burdens, and approach God with reverence and respect.
