“And the fourth row shall be a beryl, and an onyx, and a jasper: they shall be set in gold in their inclosings.”
Context:In this chapter, God gives detailed instructions to Moses regarding the making of priestly garments for Aaron, the high priest, and his sons who will serve as priests in the tabernacle. The focus of this verse is on the breastplate of judgment, which is part of the high priest’s attire.
The Breastplate of Judgment:The breastplate was a significant piece of the high priest’s clothing. It was a square-shaped piece made of beautiful and precious materials, representing the tribes of Israel before God. It was a symbol of judgment, as the high priest would wear it when seeking God’s guidance and making decisions on behalf of the people.
Materials Used:
- Beryl: Also known as a “tarshish” in some translations, beryl is a precious stone of various colours. It symbolises the beauty and diversity of God’s creation and speaks of God’s creativity.
- Onyx: Onyx is a black gemstone with bands of different colours. It represents strength and steadfastness, signifying the unchanging nature of God’s character.
- Jasper: Jasper is a multi-coloured, opaque gemstone, suggesting the multifaceted nature of God and His wisdom.
Setting in Gold:The beryl, onyx, and jasper stones were carefully placed in settings of gold on the breastplate. Gold symbolises the divine nature, purity, and preciousness of God. It also reflects His glory and kingship. The use of gold as the setting for these precious stones reminds us of the value and importance of the priestly role and their connection to God.
Application:The breastplate of the high priest points to Jesus Christ as our High Priest, who intercedes for us before God. Hebrews 4:14-16 and Hebrews 7:24-25 speak of Jesus’ role as the ultimate High Priest, making intercession for believers. The diversity of the stones on the breastplate can remind us of the diversity of God’s people. In Christ, there is neither Jew nor Gentile, but all are one in Him (Galatians 3:28). The setting of precious stones in gold can remind us of the value God places on His people. We are precious in His sight, and He desires to set us apart for His purposes (1 Peter 2:9). Just as the breastplate was used for seeking God’s guidance, we can come to God in prayer and seek His wisdom and direction in our lives (James 1:5).
Conclusion:Exodus 28:20 and the description of the high priest’s breastplate offer us valuable insights into the significance of the priestly role, the beauty of God’s creation, the preciousness of His people, and the importance of seeking His guidance in our lives. Moreover, this verse foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who intercedes on our behalf and whose sacrifice provides access to God for all who believe in Him.
