Exodus 25:7

and onyx stones and gemstones to be mounted on the ephod and breastpiece.

Study Bible

onyx stones
The Hebrew word for "onyx" is "shoham," which has been translated as onyx, a precious stone known for its layered bands of color. Onyx stones were highly valued in ancient times for their beauty and rarity. In the context of the tabernacle, these stones symbolize the preciousness and value that God places on His people. The onyx stones were to be used in the priestly garments, signifying the beauty and dignity of the priesthood. This reflects the Christian belief that believers are considered precious in God's sight, chosen and set apart for His purposes.

and gemstones
The term "gemstones" refers to various precious stones that were to be used in the construction of the ephod and breastpiece. These stones were not only valuable but also diverse, representing the multifaceted nature of God's creation and His people. Each gemstone had its unique color and brilliance, symbolizing the diversity within the body of Christ. Just as each stone had its place in the priestly garments, every believer has a unique role and purpose within the Church.

to be mounted
The phrase "to be mounted" indicates the careful and intentional placement of the stones. In Hebrew, the word used here implies setting or fixing something securely. This suggests that the stones were not merely decorative but were integral to the design and function of the ephod and breastpiece. Spiritually, this can be seen as a reminder that God has a specific place and purpose for each believer, and He sets us securely in His plan, ensuring that we are part of His divine design.

on the ephod
The "ephod" was a sacred garment worn by the high priest, made of fine linen and adorned with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn. It was an essential part of the priestly attire, symbolizing the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people. The ephod's design and materials reflect the glory and holiness of God, reminding believers of the importance of approaching God with reverence and purity. In the New Testament, Jesus is our High Priest, and through Him, we have direct access to God.

and breastpiece
The "breastpiece," also known as the breastplate of judgment, was a square piece of fabric worn over the ephod, containing twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Each stone was engraved with the name of a tribe, signifying that the high priest carried the people of Israel on his heart before God. This imagery is powerful for Christians, as it illustrates how Jesus, our High Priest, intercedes for us and carries us on His heart. The breastpiece serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant people and His desire for them to be close to His heart.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the Tabernacle from God on Mount Sinai.

2. The Israelites
The people of God, who were instructed to contribute materials for the construction of the Tabernacle.

3. The Tabernacle
A portable sanctuary where God would dwell among His people, serving as a central place of worship and sacrifice.

4. The Ephod
A sacred garment worn by the high priest, adorned with onyx stones and gemstones, symbolizing the tribes of Israel.

5. The Breastpiece
A piece of the high priest's attire, set with gemstones, representing the twelve tribes of Israel and used for decision-making through the Urim and Thummim.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Precious Stones
The use of onyx and gemstones in the ephod and breastpiece symbolizes the value and preciousness of God's people. Just as these stones were carefully chosen and set, believers are chosen and valued by God.

Representation and Intercession
The high priest wore the ephod and breastpiece as a representation of the entire nation of Israel before God. This foreshadows Christ's role as our High Priest, who intercedes for us before the Father.

God's Dwelling Among His People
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's desire to dwell among His people. Today, through the Holy Spirit, God dwells within believers, making our bodies His temple.

Generosity and Contribution
The Israelites were called to contribute materials for the Tabernacle. This teaches us the importance of giving and participating in the work of God with our resources.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of onyx stones and gemstones in the ephod and breastpiece reflect the value God places on His people?

2. In what ways does the high priest's role in wearing the ephod and breastpiece point to Jesus' role as our High Priest?

3. How can we, as believers, embody the concept of being "living stones" in the spiritual house God is building?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' contributions to the Tabernacle about our own giving and involvement in the church today?

5. How does understanding the symbolism of the Tabernacle enhance our appreciation of God's presence in our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:12
This verse mentions onyx stones in the land of Havilah, highlighting the preciousness and significance of onyx in biblical times.

Exodus 28:9-12
Provides further details on the use of onyx stones in the ephod, emphasizing their role in representing the tribes of Israel.

Revelation 21:19-20
Describes the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem, which include various gemstones, drawing a parallel to the precious stones used in the Tabernacle.

1 Peter 2:5
Speaks of believers as living stones being built into a spiritual house, connecting the physical stones of the Tabernacle to the spiritual building of the Church.