Exodus 28:23: “Make two gold rings for it and fasten them to two corners of the breastpiece.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 28:23 gives a specific instruction regarding the design of the high priest’s breastpiece. It commands that two gold rings be made and attached to the two corners of the breastpiece. These rings were an essential part of the breastpiece, serving as the connection points through which the breastpiece would be fastened to the high priest’s ephod, ensuring it stayed securely in place.
The use of gold for these rings underscores their importance and the sacred nature of the breastpiece itself. Gold, being a precious metal, was chosen to reflect the purity, value, and holiness associated with the high priest’s role. The rings were not just functional but also symbolic, representing the integrity and completeness of the high priest’s service before God. They held the breastpiece close to the high priest’s heart, symbolizing that the people of Israel, whom the breastpiece represented, were always to be close to the heart of their spiritual leader as he served before God.
Historical Context
The instructions for the high priest’s garments, including the breastpiece, were given to Moses while the Israelites were at Mount Sinai. This was a formative period for Israel as a nation, as they were receiving the laws and commands that would define their identity and relationship with God. The high priest’s garments, and the detailed instructions for making them, reflected the holiness required in approaching God and the high priest’s role as a mediator between God and the people.
In ancient craftsmanship, gold was often used in items of great significance, particularly in religious settings. The gold rings on the breastpiece were part of a larger pattern of using precious materials to construct the items associated with worship in the tabernacle. These materials reflected the glory and majesty of God and the importance of the work being done in His service.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 28:23 emphasizes the importance of being securely connected to God’s service. The gold rings that fastened the breastpiece to the ephod symbolize the connection between the high priest and the people he represented before God. This connection had to be strong, pure, and unbreakable, reflecting the high standards of holiness and commitment required of those who serve God.
The use of gold also points to the value God places on those who serve Him. The rings were not made of any ordinary material but of gold, symbolizing the preciousness of the high priest’s role and, by extension, the value of the people of Israel. This serves as a reminder that those who serve in God’s name are held in high regard by Him and must serve with integrity and devotion.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 28:23 is a brief but detailed verse that fits into the larger narrative of the construction of the high priest’s garments. The verse’s focus on the gold rings and their placement on the breastpiece highlights the careful attention to detail that was required in every aspect of the high priest’s attire. The mention of gold and the specific instructions for attaching the rings create a sense of order and intentionality, reflecting the broader theme of meticulous preparation in the worship of God.
The verse also contributes to the overall structure of the passage, where each element of the high priest’s garments is described in sequence, emphasizing the importance of each part in fulfilling the high priest’s role.
Biblical Cross-References
Other passages in the Bible expand on the themes found in Exodus 28:23:
- Exodus 39:16-18: Describes the actual making of the gold rings and their attachment to the breastpiece, fulfilling the instructions given in Exodus 28.
- Numbers 31:50: The Israelites offer gold rings as part of a tribute to the Lord, reflecting the use of gold in acts of worship and dedication to God.
- 1 Peter 2:9: Describes believers as a “royal priesthood,” highlighting the connection between the high standards of the Old Testament priesthood and the calling of all Christians to serve God with holiness and dedication.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 28:23 serves as a reminder of the importance of being securely connected to God’s service. Just as the gold rings held the breastpiece firmly in place on the high priest’s chest, we are called to be firmly connected to our faith and our service to God. This verse challenges us to consider the strength and purity of our commitment to God, ensuring that nothing can separate us from our calling to serve Him.
The verse also encourages believers to reflect on the value that God places on those who serve Him. The use of gold for the rings reminds us that our service to God is precious and should be carried out with the highest standards of integrity and devotion.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 28:23 reflects God’s love in the way He ensures that His people are securely connected to Him and His service. The gold rings symbolize the strong and unbreakable bond that God desires with His people, showing that He values and cares for them deeply. This verse demonstrates God’s commitment to keeping His people close to His heart, just as the high priest kept the breastpiece close to his heart through the secure attachment of the gold rings.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ, who is our ultimate High Priest. Just as the gold rings held the breastpiece securely in place, Jesus holds us securely in His love and care. John 10:28-29 speaks of Jesus holding His followers in His hand, with no one able to snatch them away. This reflects the security and strength symbolized by the gold rings in Exodus 28:23.
In Christ, we find the ultimate fulfillment of the high priest’s role. Jesus ensures that we are always connected to God, securely held in His grace and love, just as the breastpiece was securely fastened to the ephod.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the image of the gold rings holding the breastpiece securely in place challenge you to think about the strength of your connection to God?
- In what ways can you ensure that your service to God is marked by the same purity and holiness symbolized by the gold rings?
- How does understanding Jesus as the one who holds us securely in His love influence your relationship with Him?
- What steps can you take to strengthen your commitment to God, ensuring that nothing separates you from His service and love?