and gemstones
Gemstones in the Bible often symbolize beauty, wealth, and divine favor. In the construction of the tabernacle and the priestly garments, gemstones were used to reflect the glory and majesty of God. Each stone had specific meanings and was chosen for its unique properties. The use of gemstones in the high priest's attire also points to the heavenly reality, as seen in Revelation 21:19-21, where the New Jerusalem is described with foundations adorned with precious stones. This connection highlights the continuity of God's plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

to be mounted on the ephod
The ephod was a sacred garment worn by the high priest, made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen. It was an essential part of the priestly attire, symbolizing the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people. The mounting of gemstones on the ephod signifies the weight and responsibility of the priestly office. The ephod's design, with its intricate craftsmanship and precious materials, reflects the beauty and order of God's creation and His desire for worship to be conducted with reverence and awe.

and breastpiece
The breastpiece, also known as the breastplate of judgment, was worn over the ephod and contained twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This garment served as a reminder of the high priest's role in bearing the people before God in intercession. The breastpiece's design, with its detailed craftsmanship and symbolic stones, underscores the importance of the priestly function and the unity of the tribes of Israel. The breastpiece also foreshadows the work of Jesus Christ, our High Priest, who intercedes for us before the Father (Hebrews 7:25). The connection between the breastpiece and Christ's intercession highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout Scripture.

“and onyx stones” (Exodus 35:9)

• These were literal, precious stones God specifically requested, echoing earlier instructions in Exodus 28:9–12.

• Onyx stones were to carry the engraved names of the twelve tribes on the high priest’s shoulders, a constant reminder that Israel was borne before the LORD (Exodus 28:12; Leviticus 8:9).

• By singling out onyx first, the text highlights their unique role of memorial and intercession, much like the “memorial stones” Joshua set up at the Jordan (Joshua 4:6–7).

“and gemstones” (Exodus 35:9)

• The phrase widens the offering list beyond onyx to include the twelve colorful jewels later listed for the breastpiece (Exodus 28:17–20).

• Each tribe would be symbolized by one of these stones, underscoring individual identity within corporate covenant life—foreshadowing the “living stones” imagery applied to believers in 1 Peter 2:5 and the jeweled foundations of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21:19–20.

• God’s inclusion of variety celebrates the diversity He Himself placed within His people.

“to be mounted” (Exodus 35:9)

• Mounting meant securely setting the stones in gold filigree (Exodus 28:11, 17).

• Permanence mattered: nothing about the high priest’s garments was casual or temporary (Hebrews 9:23–24 compares these earthly copies to the heavenly realities).

• The command also shows that artistic skill is part of worship; Bezalel and Oholiab were Spirit-empowered for this craftsmanship (Exodus 31:2–5; 35:30–33).

“on the ephod” (Exodus 35:9)

• The ephod was the priestly vest that bore the onyx shoulder pieces (Exodus 28:6–8, 12).

• By carrying the tribes’ names on his shoulders, the high priest literally “carried” Israel before God—an image echoed when Christ bears our sins (Isaiah 53:4; Hebrews 7:25).

• The ephod’s placement of stones points to strength and support, just as God promises to uphold His people (Isaiah 46:4).

“and breastpiece” (Exodus 35:9)

• The breastpiece of judgment sat over the priest’s heart and housed the twelve gemstones (Exodus 28:15–21; Leviticus 8:8).

• Placing the tribes “over his heart” pictures affectionate representation, fulfilled ultimately in the loving intercession of Jesus our High Priest (John 17:9; Romans 8:34).

• Inside the breastpiece were the Urim and Thummim for discerning God’s will (Numbers 27:21), reminding us that His guidance flows from His covenant love.

Exodus 35:9 calls for onyx and other gems so they could be permanently set into the ephod and breastpiece. The verse highlights:

• Memorial—Israel’s names borne continually before God.

• Diversity—each tribe uniquely represented yet unified.

• Permanence—crafted with care to last, reflecting heavenly realities.

• Mediator—foreshadowing Christ, who carries us on His shoulders and over His heart.

The command is more than a shopping list; it’s a vivid portrait of God’s covenant love, artistic beauty, and redemptive purpose.

Parallel Commentaries ...