The breastpiece, also known as the "breastplate of judgment," is a significant element of the high priest's ceremonial attire as described in the Old Testament. It is primarily detailed in the Book of Exodus, where God provides Moses with specific instructions for its construction and use. The breastpiece is a symbol of divine judgment and guidance, serving both a practical and spiritual function in the religious life of ancient Israel.

Biblical Description and Construction

The breastpiece is described in Exodus 28:15-30. It is to be made by skilled craftsmen using materials of the highest quality, including gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely twisted linen. The breastpiece is square, measuring a span in length and a span in width when folded double. It is adorned with four rows of precious stones, each stone representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The stones are set in gold filigree, and each stone is engraved with the name of a tribe.

The first row contains a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald; the second row, a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond; the third row, a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst; and the fourth row, a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. The breastpiece is attached to the ephod, another priestly garment, by gold chains and rings, ensuring it remains securely in place over the high priest's heart.

Function and Significance

The breastpiece serves a dual purpose. Practically, it is a part of the high priest's ceremonial attire, worn during his service in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. Spiritually, it holds the Urim and Thummim, mysterious objects used to discern God's will in decision-making. Exodus 28:30 states, "And place the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece of judgment, so that they will be over Aaron’s heart whenever he enters the presence of the LORD. Thus Aaron will always bear the means of judgment for the Israelites over his heart before the LORD."

The breastpiece symbolizes the high priest's role as an intercessor for the people of Israel, bearing their names and representing them before God. It signifies the importance of divine guidance and judgment in the life of the nation, reminding the Israelites of their covenant relationship with God.

Theological Implications

Theologically, the breastpiece underscores the concept of mediation and intercession in the Old Testament priesthood, prefiguring the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, in the New Testament. Hebrews 4:14-16 speaks of Jesus as the great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, empathizing with human weaknesses and offering grace and mercy.

The breastpiece also highlights the importance of holiness and purity in approaching God, as the high priest's garments, including the breastpiece, are consecrated for service. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's holiness and the need for His people to be set apart.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the use of precious stones and elaborate garments was not uncommon among religious and royal figures. The breastpiece, however, is unique in its specific design and purpose as dictated by divine command. It serves as a tangible representation of Israel's unique relationship with God, distinct from the surrounding nations.

The breastpiece's detailed description and the emphasis on its construction and use reflect the broader biblical theme of God's attention to detail and order in worship. It serves as a reminder of the sacredness of the priestly office and the seriousness with which God views the worship and leadership of His people.2833. choshen -- breastpiece, sacred pouch
... 2832, 2833. choshen. 2834 . breastpiece, sacred pouch. Transliteration: choshen
Phonetic Spelling: (kho'-shen) Short Definition: breastpiece. ...
/hebrew/2833.htm - 6kBreastpiece (21 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Breastpiece (21 Occurrences). Exodus 25:7 onyx stones,
and stones to be set, for the ephod, and for the breastplate. (See NAS RSV NIV) ...
/b/breastpiece.htm - 12k

Breast-pieces (2 Occurrences)
Breast-pieces. Breastpiece, Breast-pieces. Breastplate . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(DBY). Breastpiece, Breast-pieces. Breastplate . Reference Bible.
/b/breast-pieces.htm - 7k

Breast (71 Occurrences)

/b/breast.htm - 31k

What was the significance of the priestly garments? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus