“And they shall bind the breastplate by the rings thereof unto the rings of the ephod with a lace of blue, that it may be above the curious girdle of the ephod, and that the breastplate be not loosed from the ephod.”
Context:Exodus 28 contains detailed instructions from God to Moses regarding the priestly garments to be worn by Aaron and his sons, who would serve as the high priests of Israel. This particular verse focuses on the breastplate that was to be worn as a part of the high priest’s attire. The breastplate was a crucial element of the priestly garments, serving as a means of seeking God’s guidance and direction for the people of Israel through a divinely appointed process known as the Urim and Thummim.
Key Points:
- The Breastplate:The breastplate was a piece of the high priest’s attire, made of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen, skillfully crafted by skilled artisans appointed by God (Exodus 28:15-21). It was a square piece measuring a span (approximately 9 inches) in length and breadth and was doubled, forming a pouch. When folded, it held the Urim and Thummim (Exodus 28:30).
- Binding the Breastplate to the Ephod:The verse explains how the breastplate was attached to the ephod, another part of the high priest’s clothing. The ephod was a sleeveless garment made of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen, skillfully woven (Exodus 28:6-14). The breastplate was bound to the ephod by its rings and a lace of blue, which served to secure it in place and prevent it from being loosened.
- The Ephod’s Curious Girdle:The ephod also had a “curious girdle” or an intricately woven sash, made of the same material as the ephod, which was used to fasten the ephod to the high priest’s body (Exodus 28:8).
- The Urim and Thummim:The Urim and Thummim were objects placed inside the breastplate. Though their exact nature is not entirely clear from the biblical text, they were likely used as a means of divine communication or discernment. The high priest would consult the Urim and Thummim to seek God’s will and direction for important matters that affected the nation of Israel (Exodus 28:30).
Spiritual Significance:The breastplate, along with the entire priestly attire, holds several symbolic and spiritual meanings:
- Representing the People:The 12 precious stones on the breastplate each represented one of the 12 tribes of Israel, symbolizing how the high priest carried the people of Israel upon his heart when he entered the Holy Place. This underscores the priest’s role as a mediator between God and the people.
- Seeking God’s Guidance:The use of the Urim and Thummim within the breastplate highlights the importance of seeking God’s guidance and wisdom when making decisions or seeking direction in our lives. It emphasizes the need for a direct connection with God in crucial matters.
- Binding and Security:The way the breastplate was bound to the ephod suggests the importance of stability, unity, and commitment to the divine calling. It symbolizes the secure relationship between God and His chosen people and the importance of remaining steadfast in our faith.
- Holiness and Priesthood:The entire priestly attire, including the breastplate, served as a reminder of the holiness and separation of the priests for their sacred duties. It points to the priesthood of believers in the New Testament, where all followers of Christ are called to be a holy and royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:5, 9).
Application:As we reflect on Exodus 28:28, we can apply its teachings to our lives as Christians:
- Seeking God’s Guidance:We should seek God’s guidance and wisdom through prayer, Scripture, and the Holy Spirit’s leading. Consulting God in our decisions and seeking His direction ensures that we are aligned with His will.
- Representing Others:As followers of Christ, we are called to carry others in our hearts and intercede for them in prayer. We should be mindful of the needs and concerns of our brothers and sisters in Christ.
- Stability and Commitment:Just as the breastplate was securely bound to the ephod, we should be firmly grounded in our faith, unwavering in our commitment to God, and devoted to living a life that honors Him.
- Holiness and Priesthood:As believers, we are called to live holy lives, set apart for God’s purposes. We are called to be priests, representing Christ on earth and ministering to the world in His love.
In conclusion, Exodus 28:28 and the priestly garments hold rich symbolism and spiritual lessons for believers today. They remind us of the importance of seeking God’s guidance, representing others in prayer, and living a life committed to holiness and service to God and others.
