Exodus 39:13

and the fourth row had a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. These stones were mounted in gold filigree settings.

Study Bible

The fourth row
This phrase refers to the arrangement of stones on the high priest's breastplate, known as the "breastplate of judgment." The breastplate was a sacred garment worn by the high priest, and it contained twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The fourth row signifies the completion of this divine order, emphasizing the meticulous care and divine instruction involved in the creation of the priestly garments. The number four often symbolizes completeness and universality in biblical numerology, suggesting the comprehensive nature of God's covenant with His people.

had a beryl
Beryl is a precious stone that appears in various colors, including green, blue, and yellow. In the Hebrew text, the word for beryl is "tarshish," which some scholars associate with the region of Tarshish, known for its wealth and trade. Beryl's inclusion in the breastplate signifies beauty and value, reflecting the preciousness of God's people in His sight. The stone's varied colors may also symbolize the diversity and unity within the tribes of Israel.

an onyx
Onyx is a banded stone, often black and white, and is associated with strength and protection. In Hebrew, the word for onyx is "shoham." Onyx stones were also used in the shoulder pieces of the ephod, another part of the high priest's garments, where the names of the tribes of Israel were engraved. This dual use underscores the idea of the high priest bearing the people of Israel before God, both on his shoulders and over his heart, symbolizing intercession and remembrance.

and a jasper
Jasper is a stone that can appear in various colors, often red, green, or brown. The Hebrew word for jasper is "yashpheh." In biblical symbolism, jasper is associated with beauty and strength. It is also mentioned in the Book of Revelation as part of the foundation of the New Jerusalem, indicating its enduring significance and connection to God's eternal promises. The presence of jasper in the breastplate highlights the glory and majesty of God's covenant with Israel.

They were mounted in gold filigree settings
The use of gold filigree settings for the stones emphasizes the importance and sacredness of the high priest's garments. Gold, in biblical symbolism, represents purity, divinity, and kingship. The intricate craftsmanship of the filigree settings reflects the care and precision required in serving God, as well as the beauty and holiness of the priestly office. This detail reminds believers of the value God places on His people and the care He takes in preparing them for His service. The gold settings also serve as a reminder of the heavenly reality that the earthly tabernacle and its furnishings were meant to represent, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the task of constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings according to God's specific instructions.

2. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled artisans appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred garments, including the priestly breastplate.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

4. The Priestly Breastplate
A sacred garment worn by the High Priest, containing twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel.

5. The Stones (Beryl, Onyx, Jasper)
Precious stones set in the breastplate, each symbolizing one of the tribes of Israel, reflecting God's covenant and the unity of His people.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Stones
Each stone in the breastplate represents a tribe of Israel, emphasizing the importance of unity and diversity within the body of Christ. Just as each stone is unique yet part of a greater whole, so are we as members of the Church.

God's Attention to Detail
The specific instructions for the breastplate highlight God's concern for detail and order. This teaches us to approach our service to God with care and precision, honoring Him in all aspects of our lives.

The Role of the High Priest
The breastplate was worn by the High Priest, who interceded for the people before God. This foreshadows Christ, our ultimate High Priest, who intercedes for us and bears us on His heart.

The Value of Obedience
The Israelites' adherence to God's instructions in crafting the breastplate demonstrates the blessing of obedience. We are called to follow God's commands faithfully, trusting in His wisdom and provision.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the symbolism of the stones in the breastplate relate to the unity and diversity within the Church today?

2. In what ways can we reflect God's attention to detail in our own lives and service to Him?

3. How does the role of the High Priest in the Old Testament enhance our understanding of Jesus' role as our High Priest?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' obedience in constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings?

5. How can we apply the concept of being "living stones" in our daily walk with Christ, as described in 1 Peter 2:5?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28:17-20
Provides the initial instructions for the construction of the priestly breastplate, detailing the arrangement and significance of the stones.

Revelation 21:19-20
Describes the foundations of the New Jerusalem adorned with precious stones, drawing a parallel to the stones in the breastplate, symbolizing the eternal covenant and the beauty of God's kingdom.

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