Exodus 28:9: “Take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 28:9 instructs Moses to take two onyx stones and engrave the names of the sons of Israel on them. These stones were to be placed on the shoulder pieces of the ephod, the sacred garment worn by the high priest. The engraving of the names symbolized the high priest’s role in representing the entire nation of Israel before God. By carrying the names on his shoulders, the high priest bore the weight of the people in a physical and spiritual sense, reminding him and the people of his responsibility to intercede for them before God.
The onyx stones were precious and durable, signifying the enduring covenant between God and the people of Israel. Each stone bore six names, ensuring that all twelve tribes were represented equally. This act of engraving the names was not just a decorative feature but a profound symbol of the relationship between God and His people, mediated through the high priest.
Historical Context
The instruction to engrave the names of the sons of Israel on the onyx stones comes during a critical time in the history of the Israelites. After being freed from slavery in Egypt, they were now at Mount Sinai, receiving the laws and instructions that would shape their identity as God’s chosen people. The high priest played a vital role in this newly established covenant, serving as the intermediary between God and the nation.
In ancient cultures, names held significant meaning and were often considered to carry the essence of a person’s identity. By engraving the names of the tribes on the onyx stones, God was ensuring that the high priest would continually carry the people’s identity and their covenant relationship with God into His presence. This practice emphasized the collective responsibility of the nation and the importance of each tribe in God’s plan.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 28:9 highlights the concept of representation and intercession. The high priest carried the names of the tribes on his shoulders, symbolizing his role as the representative of the people before God. This act of carrying the names also points to the idea of bearing responsibility—both the weight of the people’s sins and their need for atonement. The onyx stones, being durable and precious, symbolize the lasting and valuable nature of this covenant relationship.
This verse also speaks to the idea of remembrance. The names of the tribes were continually before God, engraved on the stones, ensuring that they were never forgotten. This reflects the ongoing relationship between God and His people, a relationship marked by faithfulness and commitment.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 28:9 is a directive verse, focusing on a specific and significant detail of the high priest’s attire. The verse is both instructional and symbolic, combining a simple command with profound meaning. The use of the onyx stones and the act of engraving the names serve as a literary device to emphasize the enduring covenant between God and Israel. The names of the tribes, etched into these stones, create a lasting image of the high priest’s role as a mediator and the perpetual remembrance of the people before God.
The verse fits within the larger narrative of Exodus, where the detailed instructions for the tabernacle and the priestly garments reflect the holiness required in approaching God. The specific mention of onyx stones and the names of the tribes highlights the importance of both material and symbolic aspects in the worship practices of ancient Israel.
Biblical Cross-References
Several other passages in the Bible expand on the themes found in Exodus 28:9:
- Exodus 39:6-7: Describes the actual creation of the onyx stones with the engraved names, fulfilling the command given in Exodus 28:9.
- Leviticus 16:21-22: Illustrates the high priest’s role in bearing the sins of the people during the Day of Atonement, similar to how he bore their names on the ephod.
- Isaiah 49:16: God says, “See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands,” symbolizing His eternal remembrance of and commitment to His people.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 28:9 serves as a reminder of the importance of intercession and representation in our faith. Just as the high priest carried the names of the tribes on his shoulders, we are called to bear one another’s burdens in prayer and support. This verse challenges us to take seriously our responsibility to intercede for others, bringing their needs and struggles before God.
The engraving of the names also speaks to the idea of being remembered and valued by God. Just as the names of the tribes were permanently etched into the onyx stones, our identity in Christ is secure and everlasting. We are continually remembered and valued by God, and we are called to live in a way that reflects this profound truth.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 28:9 reflects God’s love in the way He ensures that His people are continually remembered before Him. The engraving of the names on the onyx stones symbolizes the permanence of God’s covenant with Israel and His enduring commitment to them. This act of remembrance is a reflection of God’s love and faithfulness, showing that He values each person and keeps them close to His heart.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate High Priest. Just as the high priest in the Old Testament carried the names of the tribes of Israel on his shoulders, Jesus carries the weight of humanity’s sins. Hebrews 7:25 tells us that Jesus “always lives to intercede” for us, highlighting His ongoing role as our mediator before God. Unlike the high priest who carried the names on stones, Jesus carries us in His heart, interceding on our behalf and ensuring our place in God’s eternal kingdom.
In Christ, we find the fulfillment of the symbolism in Exodus 28:9. Our names are not just engraved on stones but are written in the Book of Life (Revelation 21:27), secured by the sacrifice and intercession of Jesus. This gives us confidence in our relationship with God, knowing that we are forever remembered and represented by our Savior.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you take up the responsibility of interceding for others in your daily life, following the example set by the high priest?
- What does it mean to you to be remembered and valued by God, just as the names of the tribes were engraved on the onyx stones?
- How does understanding Jesus as our ultimate High Priest, who intercedes for us, impact the way you approach prayer and your relationship with God?
- In what ways can you reflect the love and faithfulness of God in your interactions with others, knowing that they too are remembered and valued by Him?