Exodus 28:21

The twelve stones are to correspond to the names of the sons of Israel, each engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes.

Study Bible

The twelve stones are to correspond to the names of the sons of Israel
The twelve stones represent the twelve tribes of Israel, each descended from one of Jacob's sons. This connection emphasizes the unity and diversity of the nation of Israel. The stones were set in the high priest's breastplate, symbolizing that the priest carried the people before God. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's covenant with Israel, as seen in Genesis 49, where Jacob blesses his sons, and in Revelation 21:12, where the twelve tribes are inscribed on the gates of the New Jerusalem.

each engraved like a seal
The engraving of each stone like a seal signifies permanence and authority. Seals in ancient times were used to authenticate documents and denote ownership or identity. This imagery suggests that the tribes are permanently inscribed in God's plan and purpose. The use of seals is also seen in the New Testament, such as in Ephesians 1:13, where believers are sealed with the Holy Spirit, indicating security and belonging to God.

with the name of one of the twelve tribes
Each stone bearing the name of a tribe highlights the individual identity and role of each tribe within the nation. This personalization underscores the importance of each tribe's contribution to the whole. Historically, the tribes had distinct roles and territories, as detailed in the book of Joshua. The mention of the twelve tribes also points forward to the eschatological vision in Revelation 7, where members from each tribe are sealed, indicating their inclusion in God's redemptive plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Sons of Israel
These are the twelve sons of Jacob, whose descendants became the twelve tribes of Israel. Each tribe is represented by a stone on the high priest's breastplate.

2. The High Priest
The high priest wore the breastplate as part of his sacred garments. This role was initially filled by Aaron, Moses' brother, and was a mediator between God and the Israelites.

3. The Breastplate of Judgment
This was a sacred garment worn by the high priest, containing twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. It symbolized the high priest's role in bearing the people before God.

4. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, where the high priest performed his duties.

5. The Engraving
Each stone was engraved like a seal, signifying permanence and the unique identity of each tribe before God.

Teaching Points

Identity and Belonging
Just as each tribe had a unique stone, every believer has a unique identity and role in God's kingdom. We are individually known and valued by God.

Representation and Intercession
The high priest bore the names of the tribes before God, symbolizing Christ's intercession for us. We are called to intercede for others in prayer.

Permanence of God's Promises
The engraving of the names signifies the permanence of God's promises to His people. We can trust in the unchanging nature of God's word.

Unity in Diversity
The twelve stones, though different, were part of one breastplate. Similarly, the body of Christ is diverse yet unified in purpose and mission.

Holiness and Service
The high priest's garments, including the breastplate, were for glory and beauty, reminding us of our call to live holy lives in service to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the representation of the twelve tribes on the high priest's breastplate enhance our understanding of God's relationship with His people?

2. In what ways can we, as believers, act as intercessors for others, following the example of the high priest?

3. How does the concept of being "engraved like a seal" apply to our identity in Christ today?

4. What parallels can we draw between the twelve stones on the breastplate and the description of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21?

5. How can we embrace our unique identity and role within the body of Christ while maintaining unity with other believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49
This chapter provides the blessings and prophecies Jacob gave to his sons, which are foundational to understanding the significance of each tribe.

Revelation 21
The New Jerusalem is described with twelve foundations, each bearing the name of one of the twelve apostles, drawing a parallel to the twelve tribes.

1 Peter 2:5
Believers are described as living stones, being built into a spiritual house, connecting the idea of stones representing God's people.