Leviticus 8:8

Then he put the breastpiece on him and placed the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece.

Study Bible

Then he put the breastpiece on him
The "breastpiece" refers to the breastplate of judgment, a sacred garment worn by the high priest, as described in Exodus 28:15-30. In Hebrew, the word for breastpiece is "חֹשֶׁן" (choshen), which signifies a piece of clothing that is both functional and symbolic. The breastpiece was intricately designed with twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying the high priest's role as a mediator between God and His people. This act of putting on the breastpiece symbolizes the priest's readiness to serve and intercede on behalf of the Israelites, highlighting the importance of spiritual leadership and responsibility.

and placed the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece
The "Urim and Thummim" are mysterious objects used for divination, often associated with seeking God's will in decision-making. The Hebrew words "אוּרִים" (Urim) and "תֻּמִּים" (Thummim) are often translated as "lights" and "perfections," respectively. These objects were placed within the breastpiece, signifying their integral role in the priestly function. Historically, the exact nature and method of using the Urim and Thummim remain uncertain, but they are understood to be a means by which the high priest could discern God's guidance. This highlights the theme of divine direction and the necessity of seeking God's wisdom in leadership and governance. The inclusion of the Urim and Thummim in the priestly garments underscores the belief that true leadership is not based on human wisdom alone but is reliant on divine insight and revelation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is performing the consecration ceremony for Aaron and his sons as priests.

2. Aaron
The brother of Moses, who is being consecrated as the high priest of Israel.

3. Breastpiece
A sacred garment worn by the high priest, containing the Urim and Thummim, used for discerning God's will.

4. Urim and Thummim
Objects placed in the breastpiece, used for divine decision-making and guidance.

5. Consecration Ceremony
A significant event where Aaron and his sons are set apart for priestly service, symbolizing their dedication to God.

Teaching Points

The Role of the High Priest
The high priest served as a mediator between God and the people, foreshadowing Christ's ultimate priesthood.

Seeking God's Guidance
The Urim and Thummim symbolize the importance of seeking divine guidance in decision-making, reminding us to seek God's will in our lives.

Consecration and Holiness
The consecration of Aaron and his sons emphasizes the need for holiness and dedication in serving God, applicable to all believers as a royal priesthood.

Symbolism of the Breastpiece
The breastpiece represents carrying the people of God close to the heart, a reminder for leaders to care for those they serve.

Christ as Our High Priest
Jesus, our High Priest, provides us with direct access to God, eliminating the need for intermediaries like the Urim and Thummim.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the high priest in Leviticus 8:8 point to the work of Jesus Christ as our High Priest?

2. In what ways can we seek God's guidance in our lives today, similar to the use of the Urim and Thummim?

3. What does the consecration of Aaron and his sons teach us about the importance of holiness in our own lives?

4. How can leaders in the church today apply the symbolism of the breastpiece in their ministry?

5. How does understanding the role of the high priest enhance our appreciation of the access we have to God through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28:30
This passage provides instructions for making the breastpiece and placing the Urim and Thummim within it, highlighting their role in seeking God's guidance.

Numbers 27:21
This verse describes how Joshua was to stand before Eleazar the priest, who would use the Urim to inquire of the Lord, demonstrating the practical use of the Urim and Thummim.

1 Samuel 28:6
This passage shows King Saul seeking guidance from the Lord through the Urim, indicating its continued use in Israel's history.

Hebrews 4:14-16
This New Testament passage connects the role of the high priest to Jesus Christ, our ultimate High Priest, who provides us direct access to God.