“And they made two rings of gold, and put them on the two ends of the breastplate, upon the border of it, which was on the side of the ephod inward.”
Context:The book of Exodus is the second book in the Bible and is part of the Pentateuch, which includes the first five books of the Old Testament. It recounts the story of the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt, led by Moses under the guidance of God. The verse in question is part of a section describing the construction of the priestly garments, including the breastplate.
Exodus 39:19 provides specific details about the construction of the breastplate that the high priest would wear as part of his official attire when performing religious duties in the tabernacle. The breastplate was a significant part of the high priest’s vestments and played a crucial role in the process of seeking God’s guidance and direction.
Key Points and Lessons:
- Materials and Craftsmanship:In this verse, we see the skilled craftsmanship involved in creating the breastplate. The artisans made two rings of gold and attached them to the two ends of the breastplate. This indicates the level of attention to detail and the importance of using quality materials when constructing items used for sacred purposes. It also reminds us that when we serve God, we should do so with our best efforts and talents.
- Symbolism of the Breastplate:The breastplate was a unique piece of the high priest’s attire and held symbolic significance. It contained twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel (Exodus 39:10-13). This symbolized the unity and connection between the high priest and the entire nation of Israel. It serves as a reminder of the priest’s responsibility to intercede on behalf of the people before God.
- Importance of Intercession:As we observe the high priest’s role and the breastplate’s significance, we are reminded of the importance of intercessory prayer. The high priest’s duty was to enter the Holy of Holies once a year, on the Day of Atonement, to make atonement for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16:34). Similarly, Jesus Christ, as our eternal High Priest, intercedes on our behalf before the Father (Hebrews 4:14-16).
- Inner and Outer Beauty:The positioning of the rings upon the border of the breastplate, on the side of the ephod inward, highlights the notion of inner beauty and hidden significance. While the priestly garments were ornate and beautiful on the outside, it also reminds us of the importance of cultivating inner beauty, righteousness, and a sincere heart before God (1 Peter 3:3-4).
- God’s Design and Order:Throughout the construction of the tabernacle and the priestly garments, we see that God is a God of order and detail. Every aspect of worship was prescribed and designed by God Himself. This emphasizes the need for us to worship Him according to His revealed will and not based on our preferences or ideas (Exodus 39:42-43).
Application:
- Dedication to Service:Just as the artisans dedicated their skills to create the breastplate and other items for worship, we should dedicate our talents, time, and resources to serve God and His purposes.
- Intercessory Prayer:As we see the significance of the high priest’s intercession for the people, we are encouraged to pray for one another, interceding on behalf of our brothers and sisters in Christ (1 Timothy 2:1-2).
- Integrity and Inner Beauty:Let us focus on developing our character and cultivating inner beauty rather than being solely concerned with outward appearances. God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).
- Order in Worship:In our worship and service to God, we should seek to follow His prescribed order and commands, as revealed in the Bible, rather than relying on human traditions or preferences.
Overall, this verse reminds us of the importance of our relationship with God, the privilege of intercession, and the significance of dedication and order in worship and service.
