Exodus 28:29 - Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the breastplate of judgment on his heart, when he goes in to the holy place, for a memorial before Yahweh continually.

Generated Verse: Exodus 28:29

What does "Exodus 28:29" mean?


Exodus 28:29 describes a key aspect of the High Priest's role in representing the people of Israel before God. Let's break down the meaning:

"Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel...": Aaron, as the High Priest, was responsible for representing the entire nation of Israel before God. The names of the tribes, likely engraved on gemstones, were a constant reminder of this responsibility.

"...in the breastplate of judgment...": The breastplate wasn't just decorative. It was called the "breastplate of judgment" and was believed to be connected to discerning God's will in matters of justice and national importance. The Urim and Thummim, objects used for divination, were kept inside the breastplate.

"...on his heart...": This emphasizes that Aaron's role was more than just a ceremonial duty. He was to carry the people of Israel close to his heart, with a sense of caring and responsibility. It signifies that the welfare of the people was his primary concern.

"...when he goes in to the holy place...": The "holy place" (specifically, the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (Inner Sanctum/Holy of Holies) inside the Tabernacle, later the Temple) was where God's presence was especially manifest. Aaron entering this sacred space was a moment of direct communication and intercession on behalf of the people.

"...for a memorial before Yahweh continually.": The breastplate with the names was a constant "memorial" or reminder before God. It was a perpetual plea for God's blessing, protection, and favor upon the Israelites. The continual nature highlights the ongoing nature of the High Priest's role and God's covenant relationship with Israel.

In essence, this verse means that the High Priest, Aaron, was to carry the names of the tribes of Israel on his breastplate, close to his heart, whenever he entered the Holy Place. This served as a constant reminder to God of His covenant with Israel, a perpetual memorial of the people before Him. It highlighted the High Priest's role as intercessor, bearing the burdens and needs of the people before God.

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