In biblical contexts, "mountings" often refer to the settings or fixtures used to hold precious stones, particularly in the construction of sacred objects and priestly garments. The concept of mountings is primarily associated with the detailed descriptions of the Tabernacle and the High Priest's attire, as outlined in the Old Testament.

Mountings in the High Priest's Garments

The High Priest's garments, as described in the Book of Exodus, were adorned with various precious stones set in mountings. These stones were integral to the ephod and the breastpiece, which were part of the priestly vestments. The ephod, a richly embroidered garment, featured shoulder pieces with onyx stones set in gold filigree mountings. These stones were engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, serving as a memorial before the Lord.

Exodus 28:11-12 states: "Engrave the names of the sons of Israel on the two stones as you would engrave a seal. Mount them in gold filigree settings. Fasten both stones onto the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones for the sons of Israel."

The breastpiece, also known as the breastplate of judgment, contained twelve stones, each representing one of the tribes of Israel. These stones were set in gold mountings, arranged in four rows of three. The intricate design and the use of mountings underscored the significance of the High Priest's role as an intercessor for the people of Israel.

Exodus 28:17-20 describes the arrangement: "And mount on it a setting of gemstones—four rows of stones: The first row shall be a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald; the second row shall be a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond; the third row shall be a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst; and the fourth row shall be a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. Mount these stones in gold filigree settings."

Symbolism and Significance

The use of mountings in the High Priest's garments symbolizes the beauty and value of the tribes of Israel in the eyes of God. The precious stones, securely set in gold, reflect the enduring covenant between God and His people. The mountings also highlight the meticulous care and divine order prescribed for worship and service in the Tabernacle.

In a broader theological context, the mountings can be seen as a representation of the believer's secure position in Christ. Just as the stones were firmly set in their gold settings, so are believers held securely in the grace and love of God.

Mountings in the Tabernacle

Beyond the priestly garments, mountings were also used in the construction of the Tabernacle itself. The Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary for the Israelites during their wilderness journey, featured various elements that required precise craftsmanship and the use of mountings. The use of gold, silver, and bronze in the Tabernacle's construction underscored the sacredness of the space and the presence of God among His people.

Exodus 26:19 mentions the use of mountings in the Tabernacle: "Make forty silver bases to go under the twenty frames—two bases for each frame, one under each tenon."

Conclusion

The concept of mountings in the Bible, particularly in the context of the High Priest's garments and the Tabernacle, reflects the intricate design and divine order established by God for worship. These mountings not only served a functional purpose but also carried deep symbolic meaning, emphasizing the value and security of God's covenant with His people.

Of the Mortification of Anger by Patience. ...
... of joy, by expecting a change thereof; which perhaps is to be desired, because the
way to perfection is by a continual succession of mountings and descendings ...
/.../chapter vii of the mortification.htm

Ancient Chaldaea
... I will place thee in a chariot of lapis and gold, with golden wheels and mountings
of onyx: thou shalt be drawn in it by great lions, and thou shalt enter our ...
/.../chapter iancient chaldaea.htm

Chaldaean Civilization
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 3. <. ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm

The Rise of the Assyrian Empire
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 6. <. ...
/.../chapter iithe rise of the.htm

Mountings (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Mountings (1 Occurrence). Ezekiel 28:13 You were
in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone adorned ...
/m/mountings.htm - 6k

Mounts (11 Occurrences)

/m/mounts.htm - 9k

Furniture (24 Occurrences)
... 4. (n.) The masts and rigging of a ship. 5. (n.) The mountings of a gun. 6. (vt)
Builders' hardware such as locks, door and window trimmings. ...
/f/furniture.htm - 16k

Mounting (3 Occurrences)

/m/mounting.htm - 7k

Why are there so many tragedies among celebrities? | GotQuestions.org

Summary of the Book of Ezekiel - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus