Exodus 28:24

And thou shalt put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings which are on the ends of the breastplate.

Exodus 28:24 (KJV)

Context

In Exodus 28, God gives Moses detailed instructions for making the sacred garments of Aaron, the high priest. This verse focuses on the breastplate of judgment, a central piece of the high priest’s attire. The breastplate was worn over the ephod, another priestly garment, and was made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet fabric, about a span in length and width (Exodus 28:15-21).

Meaning

The verse commands that the two wreathen chains of gold be put into the two rings on the ends of the breastplate. These chains were not ordinary linked chains; they were made of pure gold, twisted or braided together like a rope. The two rings were placed on the upper corners of the breastplate. The other ends of these chains were fastened to the ouches, or settings, on the shoulder pieces of the ephod, which held the onyx stones engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel. This arrangement secured the breastplate to the ephod, allowing it to hang over the high priest’s heart.

The careful construction and connection of these elements emphasize the importance of the high priest’s role. The breastplate was adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel (Exodus 28:17-21). The gold chains and rings symbolize the strength and preciousness of the connection between the priest and the people, and between the people and God. The breastplate was called the “breastplate of judgment” because it played a vital role in determining God’s will. Inside the pouch were the Urim and Thummim, objects the high priest consulted to seek divine guidance for the nation (Exodus 28:30).

Biblical connections

The high priest served as an intercessor between the people and God. The breastplate, with its twelve stones, symbolized the high priest carrying the burden of the people and presenting them before the Lord. This connection points forward to Jesus Christ, our High Priest, who intercedes for us before the Father. The meticulous obedience required in making these garments shows the beauty of the divinely ordained design for approaching God.

Application

As believers today, we do not have a physical breastplate or Urim and Thummim, but we have the privilege of direct access to God through prayer. When facing decisions or challenges, we should seek God’s will through prayer, Scripture, and the counsel of wise believers. Just as the high priest carried the names of the tribes on his breastplate, we should carry the burdens of others in prayer and intercession. We can intercede for our family, friends, community, and even those who do not yet know Christ.

Reflection

Exodus 28:24 highlights the importance of the breastplate of judgment and its role in the priestly garments. The gold chains and rings remind us of the strength and preciousness of our connection to God through Christ. While we do not have the physical artifacts like the Urim and Thummim today, we have the privilege of prayer and communion with God through Jesus Christ, who intercedes for us. May we learn from the lessons of the breastplate and seek to live a life that honors God and cares for others.