Exodus 39:17

Then they fastened the two gold chains to the two gold rings at the corners of the breastpiece,

Study Bible

They fastened
The Hebrew root for "fastened" is "קָשַׁר" (qashar), which means to bind or tie together. This action signifies the importance of securely connecting the elements of the priestly garments, symbolizing the binding of the priest to his sacred duties and to God. The act of fastening reflects the meticulous care and intentionality required in worship and service to God, reminding believers of the need for diligence and commitment in their spiritual lives.

the other ends of the chains
The "chains" here are likely made of gold, as described earlier in the chapter. Chains in the ancient Near Eastern context often symbolized strength and connection. The "other ends" indicate a completion of a circuit, suggesting the idea of wholeness and unity in the priestly attire. This can inspire believers to consider the completeness and unity found in a life dedicated to God, where every part is connected and purposeful.

to the two settings
The "settings" refer to the gold filigree or settings that hold the stones on the ephod. In Hebrew, the word for settings is "מִשְׁבְּצוֹת" (mishbetsot), which implies a crafted or engraved work. This highlights the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating the priestly garments, reflecting the beauty and precision of God's creation. It serves as a reminder that our lives, like these settings, are to be crafted with care and attention to detail, reflecting God's glory.

attaching them to the shoulder pieces
The "shoulder pieces" are part of the ephod, a garment worn by the high priest. Shoulders in biblical symbolism often represent strength and responsibility. By attaching the chains to the shoulder pieces, it signifies the weight of responsibility carried by the priest in his role as a mediator between God and the people. This can inspire believers to embrace their responsibilities with strength and faithfulness, knowing that God equips those He calls.

of the ephod
The "ephod" is a significant priestly garment, intricately designed and richly symbolic. It represents the priest's role in bearing the names of the tribes of Israel before the Lord, as described earlier in Exodus. The ephod serves as a reminder of the intercessory role of the priest, pointing forward to Christ as our ultimate High Priest. For believers, it is a call to intercede for others and to carry their burdens in prayer.

at the front
The placement "at the front" indicates visibility and prominence. This positioning ensures that the symbolic elements of the ephod are always before the priest, reminding him of his duties and the people he represents. For believers, it is a call to keep God's commandments and the needs of others at the forefront of our lives, living with integrity and purpose in the sight of God and man.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people of God who were given the Law and instructions for building the Tabernacle.

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

3. Breastpiece
A sacred garment worn by the High Priest, part of the ephod, which held the Urim and Thummim for decision-making.

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

5. Gold Chains
Symbolic of purity and divinity, used to attach the breastpiece to the ephod, signifying the connection between God and His people.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
The meticulous construction of the breastpiece and its attachments underscores the importance of obeying God's commands in every detail of our lives.

Symbolism of the Breastpiece
The breastpiece represents the High Priest's role in bearing the names of the tribes of Israel before God, reminding us of our responsibility to intercede for others.

Connection to Christ
The High Priest's garments foreshadow Christ's role as our mediator, encouraging us to rely on Him for guidance and support.

Holiness and Purity
The use of gold in the breastpiece and its chains symbolizes the purity and holiness required in our relationship with God.

Unity and Community
The fastening of the breastpiece to the ephod signifies the unity of God's people, reminding us of the importance of community and support within the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed construction of the breastpiece in Exodus 39:17 reflect the importance of obedience to God's instructions in our own lives?

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

3. What does the use of gold in the priestly garments teach us about the nature of our relationship with God, and how can we apply this to our daily walk with Him?

4. How can the concept of bearing the names of the tribes of Israel on the breastpiece inspire us to intercede for others in our community and beyond?

5. In what ways can we foster unity and support within our church community, drawing from the symbolism of the breastpiece being fastened to the ephod?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28
Provides detailed instructions for the making of the priestly garments, including the breastpiece, emphasizing the importance of following God's commands precisely.

Leviticus 8
Describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons, highlighting the significance of the priestly garments in their service to God.

Hebrews 4:14-16
Connects the role of the High Priest in the Old Testament to Jesus as our High Priest, who intercedes for us before God.

1 Peter 2:9
Speaks of believers as a royal priesthood, drawing a parallel to the priestly service in the Old Testament and our role as representatives of God today.