Exodus 39:15

And they made upon the breastplate chains at the ends, of wreathen work of pure gold.

Exodus 39:15 (KJV)

Context

The book of Exodus records Israel’s deliverance from slavery in Egypt and the establishment of the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary where God’s presence would dwell among His people. In Exodus 39, skilled craftsmen are shown making the high priest’s garments and the holy items for the Tabernacle, following the pattern God gave to Moses. Verse 15 focuses on the breastplate worn by the high priest.

The breastplate was a significant and beautiful part of the high priest’s garments. Worn over the ephod on the priest’s chest, it covered his heart and was called the breastplate of judgment (Exodus 28:15). It held twelve precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel (Exodus 39:14). The chains described in this verse were part of the mechanism that secured the breastplate to the ephod.

Meaning

The chains were made of pure gold in “wreathen work,” meaning the gold was twisted or braided like cords, not formed into ordinary linked rings. These braided chains were placed at the ends of the breastplate and served a functional purpose: one end of each chain was fastened to rings on the breastplate, and the other end was attached to gold settings on the shoulder pieces of the ephod. This kept the breastplate securely in place so it would not swing out (Exodus 39:16-18, 21).

The material and workmanship underscore the holiness and preciousness of the priestly garments, which were set apart for service before God. The craftsmen’s obedience in following God’s exact specifications highlights the importance of doing God’s work according to His design.

Biblical connections

The construction of these chains directly fulfilled God’s command to Moses in Exodus 28:22-25, where the same braided chains of pure gold were specified for the breastplate. This connection shows the careful continuity between God’s instructions and the people’s execution of them.

Application

The attention given to the construction of the high priest’s garments reminds us that God cares about details in worship and service. He is interested not only in the big things but also in the smallest aspects of our lives, calling us to serve Him with excellence and devotion.

The twelve stones on the breastplate represented the unity of God’s people. Just as the tribes of Israel were united under God’s guidance, believers are called to come together in faith and purpose, enabling the Church to fulfill God’s purposes.

The breastplate’s role in seeking God’s will emphasizes the importance of seeking His guidance. As the high priest inquired of God through the Urim and Thummim placed in the breastplate, we should seek God’s direction through prayer, meditation on His Word, and the counsel of mature believers when making important decisions.

Gold, a precious metal associated with purity and value, highlights the sacredness of the high priest’s office and the Tabernacle. As believers, we are called to be set apart and consecrated for God’s purposes, representing His holiness in the world.

Reflection

The wreathen chains, though small details in the Tabernacle’s construction, remind us that nothing done for God is insignificant. The careful craftsmanship and pure materials point to the worthiness of the One whom the high priest served. Our own service, however modest it may seem, can be offered with the same reverence and wholehearted devotion.