Exodus 28:16: “It is to be square—a span long and a span wide—and folded double.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 28:16 provides specific instructions regarding the shape and dimensions of the breastpiece that was to be worn by the high priest. The breastpiece was to be square, with each side measuring a span, which is about nine inches. It was also to be folded double, creating a pouch or a pocket. This design was both functional and symbolic.
The square shape and the act of folding the breastpiece double were important for several reasons. First, the folded design created a space within the breastpiece where the Urim and Thummim, sacred objects used for seeking God’s guidance, could be placed. The symmetrical, square shape symbolized balance and completeness, reflecting the perfection and order that were to characterize the high priest’s service.
The careful attention to detail in the construction of the breastpiece, including its exact dimensions and design, underscores the importance of following God’s instructions precisely. This breastpiece was not just an accessory; it was a crucial part of the high priest’s role in mediating between God and the people of Israel.
Historical Context
The instruction to make the breastpiece a square shape, measuring a span by a span and folded double, comes from the larger set of guidelines given to Moses at Mount Sinai. The Israelites were in the process of establishing their identity as God’s chosen people, and the high priest’s garments were central to their religious practices. The breastpiece, with its precise measurements and careful construction, reflected the high standards that God required for those who served in His presence.
In the ancient Near East, clothing and accessories often held significant symbolic meaning. The square shape of the breastpiece could have been seen as a symbol of stability and equality, qualities that were essential in the high priest’s role as a mediator. The act of folding it double to create a pocket for the Urim and Thummim emphasized the practical aspect of the breastpiece, making it not only a decorative item but also a functional tool for seeking divine guidance.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 28:16 emphasizes the importance of order, precision, and functionality in the worship of God. The exact measurements and shape of the breastpiece were not arbitrary; they were designed to reflect the perfection and balance that God desires in all aspects of worship and service. The square shape and the folding of the breastpiece symbolize the completeness and stability that come from following God’s instructions.
This verse also highlights the idea that God’s guidance is something that should be sought with care and attention to detail. The breastpiece, with its specific design for holding the Urim and Thummim, reminds us that seeking God’s will is a deliberate and purposeful act, one that requires preparation and reverence.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 28:16 is a concise, instructional verse that contributes to the detailed description of the high priest’s garments. The focus on the breastpiece’s dimensions and design highlights the care and precision that were required in its construction. The verse’s structure, with its clear and direct language, reflects the orderly nature of the instructions given for the tabernacle and the priesthood.
The repetition of specific measurements and shapes in the descriptions of the high priest’s garments serves to emphasize the importance of following God’s commands exactly as they were given. The square shape of the breastpiece also creates a sense of symmetry and balance, which is a recurring theme in the design of the tabernacle and its furnishings.
Biblical Cross-References
Several other passages in the Bible expand on the themes found in Exodus 28:16:
- Exodus 39:9: Describes the actual construction of the breastpiece according to the instructions given in Exodus 28:16.
- Leviticus 8:8: Mentions the placement of the breastpiece on Aaron during his consecration as high priest, highlighting its significance in his role.
- Ezekiel 43:10-12: Discusses the importance of exact measurements in the design of the temple, reflecting the same attention to detail and order as in the high priest’s garments.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 28:16 serves as a reminder of the importance of order, precision, and care in our approach to worship and service to God. The specific dimensions and design of the breastpiece emphasize that every aspect of our relationship with God should be marked by intentionality and attention to detail. This verse challenges us to consider whether we are approaching our faith with the same level of care and dedication that was required in the construction of the high priest’s garments.
The verse also encourages believers to seek God’s guidance with purpose and reverence. Just as the high priest used the breastpiece to carry the Urim and Thummim for decision-making, Christians are called to seek God’s will in their lives, trusting that His guidance is perfect and complete.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 28:16 reflects God’s love in the way He provides clear instructions for how His people are to approach Him. The detailed design of the breastpiece shows that God cares about every aspect of our worship and service, ensuring that everything is done in a way that honors Him. This verse demonstrates God’s desire for a relationship with His people that is characterized by order, beauty, and completeness.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ, who is the fulfillment of the high priestly role. Just as the high priest wore the breastpiece with its precise design, Jesus embodies the perfection, order, and completeness that the breastpiece symbolized. In Christ, we have the ultimate mediator who not only seeks God’s will on our behalf but also perfectly represents us before the Father.
In Jesus, the need for physical objects like the breastpiece is fulfilled. He is the one through whom we receive God’s guidance and direction, and in Him, we find the stability and completeness that the square shape of the breastpiece represented.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the precise design of the breastpiece challenge you to approach your relationship with God with greater care and intentionality?
- In what ways can you ensure that your faith reflects the order and completeness symbolized by the square shape of the breastpiece?
- How does understanding Jesus as our perfect mediator influence the way you seek God’s guidance in your life?
- What steps can you take to ensure that your worship and service to God are marked by the same attention to detail and reverence as the high priest’s garments?