“Foursquare it shall be, being doubled; a span shall be the length thereof, and a span shall be the breadth thereof.”
This verse is part of the instructions given by God to Moses for crafting the priestly garments to be worn by Aaron, the high priest, and his sons, who would serve in the tabernacle. The verse specifically focuses on the breastplate, which was a significant and symbolic part of the high priest’s attire.
Key points to consider in this verse:
- The Breastplate:The breastplate was one of the prominent pieces of the priestly attire. It was a square or foursquare piece of fabric that contained twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel (Exodus 28:21). The breastplate was worn over the ephod (a priestly vest) and was positioned close to the heart of the high priest.
- Doubled and Firmly Attached:The verse mentions that the breastplate was to be doubled, indicating that it had a front and back side, and it was firmly attached to the ephod. This ensured that the stones would be securely held in place and not fall out while the priest was ministering before the Lord.
- Dimensions of the Breastplate:The breastplate’s dimensions were specified as being one span in length and one span in breadth. A span was an ancient unit of measurement, roughly equivalent to the width of a human hand, which is about 9 inches or 22.86 centimeters. Therefore, the breastplate was approximately nine inches by nine inches in size.
- Spiritual Significance:The breastplate served as a powerful symbol of the high priest’s responsibility and role in representing the people before God. The precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the tribes of Israel, reminded the high priest that he carried the burden of the entire nation on his heart when he approached God in the Holy of Holies on the Day of Atonement.
- Intercessory Role:The high priest was the mediator between God and the people. On the Day of Atonement, he would enter the Holy of Holies and offer sacrifices for the forgiveness of the people’s sins. The breastplate, situated close to his heart, symbolized the importance of genuine compassion and love for the people he served, as he interceded on their behalf before God.
Application Today:While we may not have high priests wearing elaborate garments and breastplates today, the principles of intercession, representation, and compassion remain relevant. As followers of Christ, we are called to be a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9) and to intercede in prayer for others, just as the high priest did for Israel. We are also called to carry the burdens of our fellow believers and show genuine love and compassion for one another (Galatians 6:2).
In conclusion, Exodus 28:16 reveals the specific details of the breastplate worn by the high priest in the Old Testament. Beyond its physical design, it carries profound spiritual symbolism, reminding us of the importance of intercession, representation, and love in our relationship with God and one another.
