“And the other two ends of the two wreathen chains thou shalt fasten in the two ouches, and put them on the shoulderpieces of the ephod before it.”
Context:In the preceding verses, God provided detailed instructions for crafting the priestly garments. The ephod was a significant part of the high priest’s attire, a vest-like garment made of fine linen and skillfully woven with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet threads. The ephod was worn on the priest’s chest, and on its two shoulderpieces were set two onyx stones, each engraved with the names of six of the twelve tribes of Israel (Exodus 28:9-12).
Wreathen Chains:In this verse, God instructs the creation of two wreathen chains. “Wreathen” refers to the chains being made in a twisted or braided manner, often associated with decorative or ornamental purposes. These chains would likely be made of gold or precious metals, in keeping with the precious nature of the priestly garments.
Fastened in the Two Ouches:The two ends of each chain were to be fastened in the two “ouches.” The term “ouches” is often translated as “settings” or “settings of gold” in other Bible versions. These were receptacles or enclosures made of gold where precious stones were set. In this case, the chains were to be attached securely to the ephod’s shoulderpieces through these gold settings.
Placement on the Shoulderpieces of the Ephod:The purpose of attaching the chains to the shoulderpieces of the ephod was to allow the ephod to be held in place on the priest’s body properly. The ephod, with the onyx stones bearing the names of the tribes, was an essential piece of the priestly attire, signifying the priest’s representation of the whole community of Israel before God.
Spiritual Significance:
- Representation and Intercession:The high priest, wearing the ephod with the attached chains, represented the people of Israel before God. The precious stones on the ephod symbolized the value and significance of the people in God’s eyes. The priest’s role was one of intercession, standing in the gap between God and the people, seeking God’s favor and forgiveness on their behalf.
- Unity of the Community:The names of the twelve tribes engraved on the onyx stones served as a reminder that the priest bore the entire community’s responsibility. The ephod and the priest’s duties symbolized the unity of the people of Israel, as they were all part of the same covenant with God.
- The Priestly Office:The ephod, with its intricate design and attached chains, highlighted the sacredness of the priestly office. The priest’s attire distinguished them from the rest of the people and reminded everyone of their special calling and consecration to serve God and the community.
Practical Application:
- Intercessory Prayer:As believers in Christ, we are called to be a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9), interceding for others and representing them before God. We can learn from the high priest’s role and be reminded of our responsibility to pray for the needs of others and seek God’s mercy and grace on their behalf.
- Unity and Community:Just as the ephod and its stones symbolized the unity of the Israelites, we, as Christians, should also strive for unity within our faith communities. We are part of the body of Christ, each with unique roles and gifts, yet all working together for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.
- Consecration and Holiness:The priestly garments were made of fine materials, and the high priest’s office demanded holiness and dedication. As followers of Christ, we are called to live lives set apart for God’s purposes, pursuing holiness and righteousness in our thoughts, actions, and character.
