Exodus 35:9

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

Study Bible

and onyx stones
Onyx stones are mentioned several times in the Bible, often associated with beauty and value. In the context of the tabernacle, these stones were used for the high priest's garments, signifying their importance and the sacredness of the priestly role. Onyx is a type of chalcedony, a mineral that was highly prized in ancient times. The use of onyx in the priestly garments symbolizes purity and holiness, reflecting the character required of those who serve in God's presence. The onyx stones were also used in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:12), indicating their long-standing significance in biblical history.

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.

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.