This verse describes the fourth and final row of gemstones on the breastplate worn by the High Priest of Israel, as instructed by God in the book of Exodus. Let's break it down:
"and the fourth row a chrysolite, an onyx, and a jasper:" This lists the three gemstones that were to be set in the fourth row of the breastplate.
Chrysolite: The exact identity of this stone is debated. It is likely peridot, a green gemstone.
Onyx: A variety of chalcedony with bands of different colors.
Jasper: An opaque variety of chalcedony that can come in many colors.
"they shall be enclosed in gold in their settings." This describes how the gemstones were to be mounted or set into the breastplate.
enclosed in gold: Each gemstone was to be surrounded by a bezel or frame made of gold.
in their settings: This emphasizes that each gem was carefully placed and secured within its gold setting on the breastplate.
Significance:
Symbolism of Gemstones: Each gemstone was believed to have specific symbolic meaning or represent a tribe of Israel. The exact associations are debated, but the arrangement on the breastplate was likely deliberate.
Beauty and Reverence: The use of precious materials like gold and gemstones shows the importance and reverence given to the High Priest's role and the items associated with worship.
Precision and Detail: The detailed instructions highlight the importance of following God's commands precisely.
In summary, Exodus 28:20 describes the specific gemstones used in the fourth row of the High Priest's breastplate and how they were to be mounted in gold settings. This was a critical part of the High Priest's attire, signifying his role as an intermediary between God and the people of Israel.
This verse describes the fourth and final row of gemstones on the breastplate worn by the High Priest of Israel, as instructed by God in the book of Exodus. Let's break it down:
"and the fourth row a chrysolite, an onyx, and a jasper:" This lists the three gemstones that were to be set in the fourth row of the breastplate.
Chrysolite: The exact identity of this stone is debated. It is likely peridot, a green gemstone.
Onyx: A variety of chalcedony with bands of different colors.
Jasper: An opaque variety of chalcedony that can come in many colors.
"they shall be enclosed in gold in their settings." This describes how the gemstones were to be mounted or set into the breastplate.
enclosed in gold: Each gemstone was to be surrounded by a bezel or frame made of gold.
in their settings: This emphasizes that each gem was carefully placed and secured within its gold setting on the breastplate.
Significance:
Symbolism of Gemstones: Each gemstone was believed to have specific symbolic meaning or represent a tribe of Israel. The exact associations are debated, but the arrangement on the breastplate was likely deliberate.
Beauty and Reverence: The use of precious materials like gold and gemstones shows the importance and reverence given to the High Priest's role and the items associated with worship.
Precision and Detail: The detailed instructions highlight the importance of following God's commands precisely.
In summary, Exodus 28:20 describes the specific gemstones used in the fourth row of the High Priest's breastplate and how they were to be mounted in gold settings. This was a critical part of the High Priest's attire, signifying his role as an intermediary between God and the people of Israel.