“And thou shalt put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings which are on the ends of the breastplate.”
Context:In Exodus 28, God instructs Moses on how to make sacred garments for Aaron, the high priest, and his sons, who will serve in the tabernacle. This passage specifically focuses on the breastplate of judgment, one of the essential components of the high priest’s attire.
The Breastplate of Judgment:The “breastplate” was a significant piece of the high priest’s attire, a sacred vestment that was worn over the ephod, another priestly garment. It was a pouch-like object made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet fabric, measuring about a span in length and width (Exodus 28:15-21). This breastplate was attached to the ephod by two golden chains, which is the subject of verse 24.
Materials and Design:The breastplate was carefully crafted with various precious materials, symbolising the importance of its function. It was adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel (Exodus 28:17-21). The gold chains mentioned in verse 24 were intertwined or “wreathen” and used to secure the breastplate to the ephod.
Significance of the Breastplate:The breastplate held significant symbolism and function. It was called the “breastplate of judgment” because it played a vital role in determining God’s will in certain matters. Inside the pouch, there were the Urim and Thummim, mysterious objects that the high priest would consult to seek divine guidance or to make decisions concerning the nation (Exodus 28:30).
Spiritual Lessons:– Intercession: The high priest served as an intercessor between the people and God. The breastplate, with its 12 stones representing the tribes, symbolised the high priest carrying the burden of the people and presenting them before God. God’s Guidance: The Urim and Thummim within the breastplate exemplify the importance of seeking God’s guidance in our lives. It reminds us that God desires to communicate with His people and that we should seek His will in prayer and supplication.
Application:– Seeking God’s Will: As believers today, we don’t 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. Interceding for Others: 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 don’t yet know Christ.
Conclusion:Exodus 28:24 highlights the importance of the breastplate of judgment and its role in the priestly garments. As we reflect on this passage, we are reminded of the significance of seeking God’s guidance and interceding for others. While we don’t have the physical artifacts like the Urim and Thummim today, we have the privilege of prayer and communion with God through Jesus Christ, our High Priest, who intercedes for us before the Father. May we learn from the lessons of the breastplate and seek to live a life that honours God and cares for others.
