This verse from Exodus 25:7 describes specific precious stones that were to be used in the creation of the ephod and breastplate, which were important garments worn by the High Priest in ancient Israel. Let's break down the meaning:
"Onyx stones": Onyx is a type of chalcedony, a banded gemstone. In the context of the Bible, it was likely a black or dark colored variety of onyx. These stones were specifically chosen for their beauty and value, befitting their use in sacred objects.
"Stones to be set for the ephod and for the breastplate": These are additional precious or semi-precious stones of various types, which would be cut and polished to be set into the ephod and breastplate. These stones represented the twelve tribes of Israel.
Context and Significance
Ephod: The ephod was a sleeveless vest or tunic worn by the High Priest. It was made of finely woven linen and embroidered with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet threads.
Breastplate (Breastplate of Judgment): The breastplate was a square pouch worn over the ephod. It held twelve precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones served as a memorial before God. The breastplate was also where the Urim and Thummim (objects used for divination) were kept.
Symbolic Meaning: The precious stones in the ephod and breastplate symbolized the glory, beauty, and authority of the priesthood, as well as the representation of the twelve tribes of Israel before God. The High Priest, wearing these garments, acted as an intermediary between God and the people.
In essence, Exodus 25:7 is part of a detailed list of materials required for constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the High Priest's garments. The use of precious stones highlights the sacredness and importance of these objects in the worship and service of God.
This verse from Exodus 25:7 describes specific precious stones that were to be used in the creation of the ephod and breastplate, which were important garments worn by the High Priest in ancient Israel. Let's break down the meaning:
"Onyx stones": Onyx is a type of chalcedony, a banded gemstone. In the context of the Bible, it was likely a black or dark colored variety of onyx. These stones were specifically chosen for their beauty and value, befitting their use in sacred objects.
"Stones to be set for the ephod and for the breastplate": These are additional precious or semi-precious stones of various types, which would be cut and polished to be set into the ephod and breastplate. These stones represented the twelve tribes of Israel.
Context and Significance
Ephod: The ephod was a sleeveless vest or tunic worn by the High Priest. It was made of finely woven linen and embroidered with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet threads.
Breastplate (Breastplate of Judgment): The breastplate was a square pouch worn over the ephod. It held twelve precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones served as a memorial before God. The breastplate was also where the Urim and Thummim (objects used for divination) were kept.
Symbolic Meaning: The precious stones in the ephod and breastplate symbolized the glory, beauty, and authority of the priesthood, as well as the representation of the twelve tribes of Israel before God. The High Priest, wearing these garments, acted as an intermediary between God and the people.
In essence, Exodus 25:7 is part of a detailed list of materials required for constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the High Priest's garments. The use of precious stones highlights the sacredness and importance of these objects in the worship and service of God.