This verse from Exodus 35:9 refers to specific materials needed for the construction of the priestly garments, particularly the ephod and the breastplate, for the high priest Aaron (and later his successors). Let's break it down:
"Onyx stones": Onyx is a type of chalcedony, a banded agate. In this context, these onyx stones were specifically meant to be engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel. They were used on the shoulders of the ephod.
"Stones to be set for the ephod": Besides the onyx stones, other precious stones were needed to adorn the ephod. The ephod was a type of apron or vest worn by the high priest. The specific types of stones aren't mentioned in this verse, but other passages (like Exodus 28) detail the materials needed.
"Stones to be set for the breastplate": The breastplate, also known as the breastpiece of judgment, was a highly ornate part of the high priest's attire. It held twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Again, Exodus 28 details the specific types of gemstones.
In essence, the verse is a call for the Israelite people to contribute the valuable stones required to create the sacred garments of the high priest, particularly the ephod and breastplate. These garments were not just clothing; they were integral to the high priest's role in mediating between God and the people, representing the tribes of Israel before God.
Significance:
Divine Authority: The meticulous design and the use of precious materials emphasized the sacredness of the priestly office and its connection to divine authority.
Representation: The stones bearing the names of the tribes symbolized the high priest carrying the people before God, interceding on their behalf.
Unity: The inclusion of all twelve tribes on the breastplate and ephod symbolized the unity of the nation before God.
Skill and Craftsmanship: It highlighted the need for skilled artisans to work with these precious materials and create the sacred garments according to God's specifications.
Willing Offerings: It emphasizes the importance of the people willingly contributing their valuables to the construction of the tabernacle and its furnishings, including the priestly garments.
This verse from Exodus 35:9 refers to specific materials needed for the construction of the priestly garments, particularly the ephod and the breastplate, for the high priest Aaron (and later his successors). Let's break it down:
"Onyx stones": Onyx is a type of chalcedony, a banded agate. In this context, these onyx stones were specifically meant to be engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel. They were used on the shoulders of the ephod.
"Stones to be set for the ephod": Besides the onyx stones, other precious stones were needed to adorn the ephod. The ephod was a type of apron or vest worn by the high priest. The specific types of stones aren't mentioned in this verse, but other passages (like Exodus 28) detail the materials needed.
"Stones to be set for the breastplate": The breastplate, also known as the breastpiece of judgment, was a highly ornate part of the high priest's attire. It held twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Again, Exodus 28 details the specific types of gemstones.
In essence, the verse is a call for the Israelite people to contribute the valuable stones required to create the sacred garments of the high priest, particularly the ephod and breastplate. These garments were not just clothing; they were integral to the high priest's role in mediating between God and the people, representing the tribes of Israel before God.
Significance:
Divine Authority: The meticulous design and the use of precious materials emphasized the sacredness of the priestly office and its connection to divine authority.
Representation: The stones bearing the names of the tribes symbolized the high priest carrying the people before God, interceding on their behalf.
Unity: The inclusion of all twelve tribes on the breastplate and ephod symbolized the unity of the nation before God.
Skill and Craftsmanship: It highlighted the need for skilled artisans to work with these precious materials and create the sacred garments according to God's specifications.
Willing Offerings: It emphasizes the importance of the people willingly contributing their valuables to the construction of the tabernacle and its furnishings, including the priestly garments.