Topical Encyclopedia The breastplate, also known as the "breastplate of judgment," was an integral part of the high priest's sacred garments, as prescribed by God to Moses for Aaron and his successors in the priesthood. This ornate piece of attire was not merely decorative but held significant spiritual and symbolic meaning within the religious practices of ancient Israel.Biblical Description and Construction The instructions for the construction of the breastplate are detailed in the Book of Exodus. It was to be made by skilled craftsmen, using the finest materials. Exodus 28:15-16 states, "You are to make a breastpiece of judgment, skillfully woven. Make it like the ephod: of gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen. It must be square when folded over, a span long and a span wide." The breastplate was adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones were set in four rows of three, and each stone was engraved with the name of a tribe. Exodus 28:17-21 provides further details: "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 them in gold filigree settings. 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." Function and Symbolism The breastplate served a dual purpose: it was both a symbol of the high priest's role as a mediator between God and the people of Israel and a practical tool for discerning God's will. The breastplate was attached to the ephod, another priestly garment, by gold chains and blue cords, ensuring it remained over the high priest's heart. This placement signified the high priest's duty to bear the names of the tribes before the Lord continually, as described in Exodus 28:29 : "Whenever Aaron enters the Holy Place, he shall bear the names of the sons of Israel over his heart on the breastpiece of judgment, as a continual reminder before the LORD." Additionally, the breastplate contained the Urim and Thummim, mysterious objects used to determine God's will in specific situations. While the exact nature of these items is not detailed in Scripture, their presence within the breastplate underscores its role in divine communication and judgment. Theological Significance The breastplate's design and function highlight the themes of representation, intercession, and divine guidance. As the high priest wore the breastplate, he symbolically carried the people of Israel into the presence of God, interceding on their behalf. This foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who intercedes for believers before the Father. The use of precious stones and the meticulous craftsmanship of the breastplate reflect the value and beauty of God's covenant with His people. Each stone, representing a tribe, signifies the unique and cherished place each tribe held in God's plan, emphasizing the unity and diversity within the body of Israel. In summary, the breastplate worn by Aaron was a vital component of the high priestly garments, rich in symbolism and function, serving as a constant reminder of the high priest's role in mediating between God and His chosen people. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 29:5And you shall take the garments, and put on Aaron the coat, and the robe of the ephod, and the ephod, and the breastplate, and gird him with the curious girdle of the ephod: Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 8:8 Library The Pastor's Parting Blessing Separating the Precious from the Vile Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians. A Discourse Resources What is the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the full armor of God? | GotQuestions.org What is the readiness of the gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15)? | GotQuestions.org Breastplate: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Breastplate for Soldiers: Bright and Shining Breastplate for Soldiers: Made of Iron Breastplate for the High Priest: Form and Dimensions of Breastplate for the High Priest: Made from the offering of the People Breastplate for the High Priest: Materials of Breastplate of the High Priest Breastplate: A Part of Defensive Armour Breastplate: A Part of the High Priest's Dress Breastplate: Armor for Soldiers Breastplate: for High Priest: Directions for the Making of Breastplate: for High Priest: Freewill offering of Materials For Breastplate: for High Priest: Made by Bezaleel Breastplate: for High Priest: Worn by Aaron Breastplate: had Names of the Tribes Engraved on Precious Stones Breastplate: Illustrative of The: Defence of Faith and Love Breastplate: Illustrative of The: Defence of Righteousness Breastplate: Illustrative of The: Righteous Judgment of Christ Breastplate: Inseparably United to the Ephod Breastplate: The Urim and Thummim Placed In Breastplate: Worn As a Memorial Related Terms |
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