Topical Bible: Memorial: Shoulder Stones of the Ephod

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The shoulder stones of the ephod hold significant importance in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the priestly garments worn by Aaron, the first high priest of Israel. These stones are described in the Book of Exodus as part of the elaborate vestments designed for the high priest, serving both a functional and symbolic role in the religious life of ancient Israel.

Biblical Description and Function

The ephod, a sacred garment worn by the high priest, is detailed in Exodus 28. It was crafted from gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen, skillfully woven together. The ephod featured two shoulder pieces, each adorned with an onyx stone set in gold filigree. These stones were engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, six names on each stone, serving as a memorial before the Lord.

Exodus 28:9-12 states: "Take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel: six of their names on one stone and the remaining six on the other, in the order of their birth. Engrave the names of the sons of Israel on the two stones the way a gem cutter engraves a seal. Then mount the stones in gold filigree settings. Fasten both stones onto the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones for the sons of Israel. Aaron is to bear their names on his two shoulders as a memorial before the LORD."

Symbolism and Significance

The shoulder stones of the ephod served as a perpetual reminder of the high priest's representative role. By bearing the names of the tribes on his shoulders, Aaron symbolically carried the people of Israel before God, interceding on their behalf. This act underscored the high priest's duty to mediate between God and His people, highlighting the covenant relationship established at Sinai.

The use of onyx stones, precious and enduring, further emphasized the value and permanence of this memorial. The engraving of the names, akin to a seal, signified the unbreakable bond between God and the tribes of Israel, each name permanently inscribed and remembered before the Lord.

Theological Implications

The shoulder stones of the ephod illustrate the biblical theme of remembrance and intercession. They prefigure the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who bears the names of His people before God, interceding on their behalf. Hebrews 7:25 affirms this role: "Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them."

In the broader biblical narrative, the shoulder stones remind believers of their identity as God's chosen people, continually remembered and cherished by Him. The high priest's role as a mediator foreshadows the New Covenant, where Christ's sacrifice and intercession provide believers with direct access to God.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the use of engraved stones as memorials or seals was common, often signifying authority, ownership, or covenant. The biblical account of the shoulder stones aligns with this cultural practice, yet it uniquely emphasizes the spiritual and covenantal dimensions of Israel's relationship with God.

The ephod, with its shoulder stones, was part of a larger system of priestly garments and rituals that underscored the holiness and distinctiveness of Israel as a nation set apart for God's purposes. These garments, and the rituals associated with them, reinforced the sacredness of the priestly office and the seriousness of approaching God in worship and intercession.

Nave's Topical Index

Exodus 28:12
And you shall put the two stones on the shoulders of the ephod for stones of memorial to the children of Israel: and Aaron shall bear their names before the LORD on his two shoulders for a memorial.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

High Priest
... of the offerer, bring it to the altar, take of it a memorial, and burn ... these rings;
and it was also suspended from the onyx stones on the shoulder by chains ...
/.../conversion of a high priest into a christian worker/chapter iv high priest.htm

The Names on Aaron's Breastplate
... cloth, in which were lodged twelve precious stones, in four ... On each shoulder it was
clasped by an onyx stone ... the names of the tribes for a memorial continually ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/the names on aarons breastplate.htm