And they made two other golden rings, and put them on the two sides of the Ephod vnderneath, toward the forepart of it, ouer against the other coupling thereof, aboue the curious girdle of the Ephod. Exodus 39:20 (KJV)
The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and continues the narrative that began in Genesis. It records the history of the Israelites, especially their liberation from slavery in Egypt under Moses’ leadership. In this passage we encounter a detailed description of the priestly garments that were made for Aaron, the brother of Moses, and his sons as they were consecrated as priests before God.
The ephod was an essential part of the high priest’s attire. It was a sleeveless garment woven of fine linen and skillfully worked with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet threads. The ephod symbolized the priestly office and represented the dignity and honor of that role. It featured two shoulder pieces, each set with an onyx stone engraved with the names of six tribes of Israel.
Two other rings of gold were made and put on the two sides of the ephod underneath, toward the forepart thereof, over against the other coupling thereof, above the curious girdle of the ephod. These golden rings served as receptacles through which the ephod’s shoulder pieces passed, allowing the ephod to be securely fastened to the priest’s shoulders. The “curious girdle” was a finely crafted belt or sash made of the same materials, used to tie the ephod firmly around the priest’s waist so that it would not come loose during service.
The meticulous instructions for the priestly garments reflect the importance God places on consecration and holiness. As God’s chosen representatives, the priests were to be set apart from the people and to maintain a high standard of purity and dedication in their sacred duties. This attention to detail demonstrates that God values excellence and dedication in every aspect of our service, whether in worship, prayer, or ministry.
The high priest, wearing the ephod with its shoulder stones bearing the names of the twelve tribes, symbolized a mediator between God and Israel. In the New Testament the ultimate mediator is found in Jesus Christ, who intercedes on our behalf before the Father, being both God and man.
Gold, a precious metal, is often associated with purity and value. In the context of the priestly garments it represents the holiness and dignity of the priestly office, and it reminds believers to seek spiritual purity and to value the things of God above all else.
Application of this passage includes several practical points: first, dedication to God—living lives consecrated and committed to His service; second, holiness in service—pursuing purity in thoughts, actions, and speech; third, being prayerful intercessors—standing in the gap for others as the priest did; fourth, steadfastness and faithfulness—remaining firmly rooted in faith as the rings and girdle secured the ephod; and finally, valuing the things of God—treasuring spiritual riches over material pursuits.
In conclusion, Exodus 39:20 provides valuable insight into the significance of the priestly garments and the principles they embody. As we apply these lessons, may we grow in dedication, holiness, and steadfastness in our walk with God.
