“And he put them on the shoulders of the ephod, that they should be stones for a memorial to the children of Israel; as the LORD commanded Moses.”
Context:The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and continues the narrative of the Israelites’ journey from slavery in Egypt to their liberation and covenant with God at Mount Sinai. In this specific passage (Exodus 39:1-31), we find detailed descriptions of the garments that were made for the high priest and his assistants (the priests) in the tabernacle.
The verse in focus, Exodus 39:7, is part of this description and refers to the stones that were placed on the shoulders of the ephod, which was a significant and ornate garment worn by the high priest. These stones were intended to serve as a memorial or remembrance for the children of Israel, in accordance with the commandment of the Lord given to Moses.
Key Points and Lessons:
- The Ephod and its Significance:The ephod was a special vestment worn by the high priest of Israel. It was made of fine materials and adorned with precious stones, representing the weight and importance of the priestly office. The ephod was worn over the priest’s linen garments and was an essential part of his ceremonial attire.
- Stones of Memorial:On the shoulders of the ephod, there were two onyx stones, each bearing the names of six of the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones served as a memorial, reminding the high priest of his responsibility to represent the entire nation before God. It symbolized the unity of the tribes and their shared identity as God’s chosen people.
- Importance of Remembrance:The act of setting up memorial stones was a common practice in the Old Testament. These physical reminders served as aids to help the people remember God’s faithfulness, His promises, and the significant events in their history. Remembrance played a vital role in reinforcing the people’s faith and loyalty to God, keeping them anchored in their covenant relationship.
- Obedience to God’s Commands:The verse states that the placement of these memorial stones on the ephod was done as the Lord commanded Moses. This highlights the importance of obedience to God’s instructions. The people of Israel were to follow God’s specific commands in building the tabernacle and preparing the priestly garments, adhering to every detail as a sign of their devotion and commitment to God’s plan.
- Application for Believers Today:As Christians, we can learn several lessons from Exodus 39:7. Firstly, we should value the idea of remembrance and reflection on God’s faithfulness in our lives and the history of His people. Secondly, obedience to God’s commands remains a crucial aspect of our relationship with Him. By following His teachings, we demonstrate our love and devotion to Him.
In conclusion, Exodus 39:7 provides us with insights into the priestly garments and their significance in Israel’s worship practices. The memorial stones on the ephod were a constant reminder of God’s covenant with His people, and it teaches us the importance of remembrance and obedience in our own walk with God.
