Exodus 28:15

You are also to make a breastpiece of judgment with the same workmanship as the ephod. Construct it with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with finely spun linen.

Study Bible

You are to fashion
The Hebrew root for "fashion" is "עָשָׂה" (asah), which means to make, do, or create. This word emphasizes the intentional and careful creation of the breastpiece, highlighting the importance of craftsmanship in worship. The act of fashioning is not merely functional but is an act of devotion, reflecting the divine order and beauty that God desires in His service.

a breastpiece
The breastpiece, or "חֹשֶׁן" (choshen) in Hebrew, was a sacred garment worn by the high priest. It was not just an ornamental piece but a significant part of the priestly attire, symbolizing the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people. The breastpiece held the Urim and Thummim, tools for divine decision-making, underscoring its importance in seeking God's guidance.

for making decisions
This phrase indicates the purpose of the breastpiece, which was to discern God's will. The Hebrew term "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat) can be translated as "judgment" or "decision," reflecting the breastpiece's role in rendering divine judgments. It served as a tangible reminder of God's sovereignty and the need for His guidance in the affairs of His people.

the work of a skilled craftsman
The phrase highlights the requirement for expertise and artistry in creating the breastpiece. The Hebrew word "חָכָם" (chakam) means wise or skillful, indicating that those who crafted the breastpiece were endowed with wisdom and skill from God. This reflects the biblical principle that all talents and skills are gifts from God, to be used for His glory.

You are to make it like the ephod
The ephod was another priestly garment, and the breastpiece was to be made in a similar manner, suggesting a unity and coherence in the priestly attire. The ephod, like the breastpiece, was a symbol of the priest's role and responsibility. The connection between the two garments underscores the comprehensive nature of the priestly duties.

of gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen
These materials were not only valuable but also symbolically significant. Gold represents divinity and purity, while blue often symbolizes heaven and divine revelation. Purple, a color of royalty, signifies the kingly aspect of the priesthood, and scarlet represents sacrifice and atonement. Finely spun linen denotes purity and righteousness. Together, these materials reflect the holiness and majesty of the priestly office and the divine nature of the service to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle and the priestly garments from God.

2. Aaron
The brother of Moses, who was appointed as the first high priest of Israel. The breastpiece was part of his priestly garments.

3. Skilled Craftsman
Artisans endowed with wisdom and skill by God to create the intricate designs of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the priestly garments.

4. Breastpiece
A sacred garment worn by the high priest, used for making decisions, particularly through the Urim and Thummim.

5. Ephod
A part of the high priest's attire, to which the breastpiece was attached, symbolizing the priest's role in representing the people before God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The detailed instructions for the breastpiece highlight the importance of following God's commands precisely. As believers, we are called to obey God's Word in every aspect of our lives.

Symbolism of the Breastpiece
The materials and colors used in the breastpiece symbolize the beauty and holiness required in approaching God. Our lives should reflect God's holiness and beauty in our conduct and character.

Role of the High Priest
The breastpiece signifies the high priest's role in interceding for the people. This foreshadows Christ's intercession for us, reminding us of the importance of prayer and seeking God's guidance.

God's Provision of Skills
The involvement of skilled craftsmen shows that God equips His people with the necessary skills to fulfill His purposes. We should seek to use our talents and abilities for God's glory.

Decision-Making and God's Guidance
The breastpiece was used for making decisions, emphasizing the need to seek God's guidance in our lives. We should prioritize prayer and Scripture in our decision-making processes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed description of the breastpiece in Exodus 28:15 reflect the importance of obedience to God's instructions in our lives today?

2. In what ways does the role of the high priest in the Old Testament point to the work of Jesus as our High Priest, and how can this understanding impact our prayer life?

3. How can we apply the concept of using our God-given skills and talents for His purposes in our daily lives and service to others?

4. What are some practical ways we can seek God's guidance in our decision-making, and how does the breastpiece serve as a reminder of this need?

5. How can the symbolism of the materials and colors used in the breastpiece inspire us to pursue holiness and reflect God's beauty in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 39:8-21
Describes the actual making of the breastpiece, emphasizing the obedience to God's detailed instructions.

Leviticus 8:8
Mentions the breastpiece being placed on Aaron, signifying the beginning of his priestly duties.

Numbers 27:21
Refers to the use of the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece for decision-making, highlighting its role in seeking God's guidance.

Hebrews 4:14-16
Connects the high priestly role of Aaron to Jesus as our ultimate High Priest, who intercedes for us before God.