Topical Bible: Breastplate: Inseparably United to the Ephod

◄ Breastplate: Inseparably United to the Ephod ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The breastplate, known in Hebrew as the "ḥoshen," is a significant component of the high priest's sacred garments as described in the Old Testament. It is intricately linked to the ephod, forming a crucial part of the priestly attire that symbolizes divine judgment and guidance for the Israelites.

Biblical Description and Construction

The breastplate is detailed in Exodus 28:15-30, where God commands Moses regarding its construction. It is to be made of skilled craftsmanship, using gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely twisted linen. The breastplate is square, a span long and a span wide when folded double. It is adorned with four rows of precious stones, each stone representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The stones are set in gold filigree, and each stone is engraved with the name of a tribe.

Inseparable Connection to the Ephod

The breastplate is inseparably united to the ephod, another essential garment of the high priest. The ephod itself is a richly embroidered vestment, and the breastplate is attached to it by gold chains and blue cords. Exodus 28:28 states, "The rings of the breastpiece are to be tied to the rings of the ephod with a blue cord, so that the breastpiece will be above the waistband of the ephod and will not come loose from the ephod."

This connection signifies the unity and completeness of the high priest's role in mediating between God and the people. The breastplate, with its Urim and Thummim, is used for divine decision-making, and its secure attachment to the ephod ensures that the high priest carries the means of judgment and guidance close to his heart.

Symbolism and Function

The breastplate serves both a symbolic and functional purpose. Symbolically, it represents the high priest's role in bearing the names of the tribes of Israel before the Lord, as stated in Exodus 28:29 : "Whenever Aaron enters the Holy Place, he will bear the names of the sons of Israel over his heart on the breastpiece of judgment, as a continual reminder before the LORD."

Functionally, the breastplate contains the Urim and Thummim, mysterious objects used to discern God's will in critical decisions. The exact nature of these objects is not detailed in Scripture, but they are understood to be a means of divine communication, further emphasizing the breastplate's role in judgment.

Theological Significance

The breastplate's inseparable union with the ephod underscores the comprehensive nature of the high priest's duties. It highlights the importance of divine guidance and the priest's responsibility to carry the spiritual welfare of the people before God. The breastplate, as part of the high priestly garments, foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who perfectly mediates between God and humanity, bearing the names of His people on His heart and providing eternal access to divine wisdom and judgment.