Exodus 28:16

It must be square when folded over double, a span long and a span wide.

Study Bible

It is to be square
The instruction for the breastpiece to be "square" signifies completeness and perfection in its design. In the Hebrew context, the word for square, "רָבוּעַ" (ravu'a), implies a sense of balance and order. This shape reflects the divine order and symmetry that God desires in His creation and in the worship practices of His people. The square shape also symbolizes the equal representation of the twelve tribes of Israel, each having an equal share in the priestly intercession.

when folded over
The phrase "when folded over" indicates that the breastpiece was designed to be doubled, creating a pouch or pocket. This doubling could symbolize the dual nature of the priest's role: representing the people before God and God before the people. The Hebrew word "כָּפַל" (kafal) suggests a covering or protection, which can be seen as a metaphor for the protective and mediating role of the high priest.

a span long and a span wide
The measurement "a span long and a span wide" refers to the dimensions of the breastpiece, with a span being the distance from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the little finger when the hand is fully extended, approximately nine inches. This specific measurement underscores the precision and intentionality in God's instructions. The span, "זֶרֶת" (zeret) in Hebrew, is a personal and relatable unit of measure, reminding us that God's commands are both grand and intimately connected to human experience. The equal length and width further emphasize the theme of balance and equality among the tribes of Israel, as each tribe is represented by a stone on the breastpiece, signifying their equal importance in the eyes of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the priestly garments from God on Mount Sinai.

2. Aaron
Moses' brother, the first high priest, for whom the breastpiece was made.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, for whom the priestly garments were a symbol of God's presence and holiness.

4. Mount Sinai
The place where God gave Moses the instructions for the Tabernacle and the priestly garments.

5. The Breastpiece of Judgment
A sacred garment piece worn by the high priest, symbolizing the judgment and guidance of God for the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Square
The square shape of the breastpiece signifies completeness and perfection, reflecting God's perfect judgment and guidance.

Role of the High Priest
The breastpiece was a critical part of the high priest's attire, symbolizing his role as the mediator between God and the Israelites.

God's Detailed Instructions
The specific dimensions and design of the breastpiece highlight the importance of following God's instructions precisely.

Spiritual Significance
The breastpiece, with its stones representing the tribes of Israel, reminds us of the importance of carrying others in prayer and intercession.

Christ as Our High Priest
Just as the high priest wore the breastpiece, Jesus, our high priest, carries us before God, interceding on our behalf.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the square shape of the breastpiece teach us about God's nature and His expectations for our lives?

2. How does the role of the high priest in the Old Testament foreshadow the work of Jesus Christ as our high priest?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of carrying others in prayer, as symbolized by the stones on the breastpiece?

4. How does the detailed design of the breastpiece reflect the importance of obedience to God's instructions in our daily lives?

5. What connections can you draw between the breastpiece's symbolism and the description of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21:16?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 39:9
This verse describes the actual making of the breastpiece, confirming the dimensions and the folding over to form a square.

Leviticus 8:8
This verse describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons, where the breastpiece is placed on Aaron, signifying his role as the high priest.

Hebrews 4:14-16
This passage speaks of Jesus as our high priest, drawing a parallel to the role of the high priest in the Old Testament, who wore the breastpiece.

Revelation 21:16
The New Jerusalem is described as a perfect square, symbolizing completeness and perfection, similar to the breastpiece's design.