Exodus 35:9

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 is often associated with precious stones of great value and beauty. Onyx stones were used in the high priest's garments, specifically on the ephod, symbolizing the tribes of Israel. Historically, onyx was prized in ancient cultures for its durability and aesthetic appeal. Spiritually, the onyx stones represent the enduring and precious nature of God's covenant with His people, reminding believers of the beauty and permanence of their relationship with God.

and gemstones
The term "gemstones" in Hebrew is "avnei-miluim," which refers to stones that are set or mounted. These stones were not only decorative but also held significant spiritual symbolism. Each gemstone represented one of the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying the diversity and unity of God's people. The use of gemstones in the priestly garments underscores the value God places on each individual within the community of faith, highlighting the unique role and contribution of every believer.

to be mounted
The phrase "to be mounted" indicates the careful and intentional placement of the stones. In Hebrew, the word "miluim" suggests a setting or filling, implying that each stone had a specific place and purpose. This meticulous arrangement reflects God's order and design in His creation and His plans for His people. It serves as a reminder that God has a specific place and purpose for each of us in His divine plan, and that we are each uniquely crafted to fit into His greater 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. The ephod was a symbol of the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people. The onyx stones on the ephod bore the names of the tribes of Israel, signifying the priest's duty to represent the people before God. This highlights the importance of intercession and the role of spiritual leaders in guiding and supporting the community of faith.

and breastpiece
The "breastpiece," also known as the breastplate of judgment, was a square, ornate piece of fabric worn over the ephod. It held twelve gemstones, each engraved with the name of one of the tribes of Israel. The breastpiece was a constant reminder of the high priest's responsibility to carry the people of Israel on his heart before God. This serves as an inspirational reminder for believers to carry one another in prayer and love, reflecting the heart of Christ, our ultimate High Priest, who intercedes for us continually.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is conveying God's instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle.

2. Israelites
The people of God, who are called to contribute materials for the Tabernacle.

3. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God would dwell among His people.

4. Ephod
A sacred garment worn by the high priest, part of the priestly attire.

5. Breastpiece
A piece of the high priest's attire, adorned with gemstones, representing the twelve tribes of Israel.

Teaching Points

The Value of Offering
The Israelites were called to offer valuable materials, such as onyx stones and gemstones, for the construction of the Tabernacle. This teaches us the importance of giving our best to God, not just in material offerings but in our time, talents, and resources.

Symbolism of Stones
The onyx stones and gemstones were not just decorative; they held symbolic meaning, representing the tribes of Israel. This reminds us that our contributions to God's work have deeper significance and impact.

Unity in Diversity
The gemstones on the breastpiece represented the twelve tribes, each unique yet part of a unified whole. In the body of Christ, we are diverse members with different gifts, called to work together for God's glory.

God's Dwelling Among Us
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence with His people. Today, we are reminded that God dwells within us through the Holy Spirit, and we are called to be living temples.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the inclusion of precious stones in the construction of the Tabernacle teach us about the nature of our offerings to God?

2. How can we apply the principle of giving our best to God in our daily lives?

3. In what ways do the onyx stones and gemstones symbolize the unity and diversity within the body of Christ?

4. How does the concept of God dwelling among His people in the Tabernacle relate to the New Testament teaching of the Holy Spirit dwelling within believers?

5. Reflect on a time when you contributed to God's work. How did it impact your faith and understanding of community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28:9-12
This passage provides detailed instructions about the onyx stones and their placement on the ephod, emphasizing their significance in representing the tribes of Israel.

1 Chronicles 29:2
King David's preparation for the temple includes gathering precious stones, showing continuity in the importance of offering valuable materials for God's dwelling place.

Revelation 21:19-21
The New Jerusalem is described with foundations adorned with precious stones, symbolizing the beauty and value of God's eternal dwelling.