Exodus 39:4 – “They made shoulder pieces for the ephod, which were attached to two of its corners, so it could be fastened.”

Extended Explanation

Exodus 39:4 details a specific part of the construction of the ephod, a garment worn by the High Priest. The verse describes the making of shoulder pieces that were attached to the ephod, allowing it to be securely fastened. These shoulder pieces were significant because they held the onyx stones that were engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. This ensured that, symbolically, the High Priest bore the people of Israel on his shoulders as he ministered before God. The construction of these shoulder pieces demonstrates the care and precision involved in preparing the High Priest for his sacred duties, reinforcing the idea that every detail in God’s instructions was meaningful.

Historical Context

The ephod was a central part of the High Priest’s garments and was used during his service in the Tabernacle. The instructions for making the ephod, including its shoulder pieces, were given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. The shoulder pieces were not merely functional; they carried deep symbolic meaning. The names of the tribes of Israel, engraved on the stones, represented the High Priest’s role as an intercessor for the entire nation. This was a time when the Israelites were learning to worship and serve God in the wilderness after their deliverance from Egypt. The detailed construction of the ephod reflects the importance of the priesthood and the seriousness with which God’s people were to approach Him.

Theological Implications

Theologically, the shoulder pieces of the ephod symbolize the responsibility and burden that the High Priest carried on behalf of the people. He literally bore their names before God, emphasizing the priest’s role as a mediator. This points to the greater truth that access to God requires a mediator, which in the New Testament is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. The High Priest’s garments, with the engraved names of the tribes, also highlight the theme of God’s covenant relationship with Israel, where each tribe had a place in His plan and was remembered before Him.

Literary Analysis

Exodus 39:4 is part of a broader passage that details the construction of the priestly garments with great specificity. The literary structure of this verse reflects the careful obedience of the Israelites in following God’s detailed instructions. The repetition of the phrase “as the LORD commanded Moses” throughout the chapter emphasizes the importance of following God’s commands exactly as given. This verse, though technical, is rich in symbolic meaning, linking the physical construction of the ephod to the spiritual responsibilities of the High Priest.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Exodus 28:9-12: These verses provide the original instructions for the shoulder pieces, detailing the engraving of the onyx stones with the names of the tribes of Israel, showing the continuity between God’s command and its fulfillment in Exodus 39:4.
• Isaiah 9:6: This verse prophetically describes the Messiah, Jesus, as one who will bear the government on His shoulders, a connection to the High Priest bearing the tribes on his shoulders, pointing to Christ’s role as the ultimate mediator and ruler.
• Hebrews 7:24-25: In the New Testament, these verses describe Jesus as our permanent High Priest, who always lives to intercede for us, fulfilling the role symbolized by the High Priest in the Old Testament.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, Exodus 39:4 is a reminder of the importance of carrying one another’s burdens in love, as exemplified by the High Priest who bore the names of the tribes on his shoulders. It also points to the need for a mediator, a role that Jesus perfectly fulfills. Christians are encouraged to approach God with reverence and to remember that through Jesus, they have access to the Father. The verse also challenges believers to take seriously their own roles in supporting and praying for one another, reflecting the care and responsibility that the High Priest had for the people of Israel.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love in His desire for a relationship with His people. By establishing the priesthood and the detailed instructions for the garments, God showed His care for how His people approached Him and how they were represented before Him. The engraving of the tribes’ names on the shoulder pieces symbolizes God’s remembrance of each tribe, highlighting His personal and covenantal love for His people.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

The shoulder pieces of the ephod, which bore the names of the tribes, point forward to Jesus Christ, our ultimate High Priest. Just as the High Priest bore the names of Israel before God, Jesus bears our burdens and intercedes for us before the Father. Hebrews 9:24 says that Christ entered heaven itself, now to appear for us in God’s presence. He carries us on His shoulders, not just symbolically, but as the one who took our sins upon Himself, securing our access to God through His sacrifice.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does the image of the High Priest bearing the names of the tribes on his shoulders impact your understanding of responsibility and intercession?
2. In what ways can you carry the burdens of others, following the example set in this verse?
3. How does recognizing Jesus as our ultimate High Priest deepen your appreciation of His role in your life?
4. What does this verse teach you about the importance of following God’s instructions with care and reverence?

This article provides insight into the meaning of Exodus 39:4 and its significance for Christians today, encouraging believers to reflect on the importance of intercession, responsibility, and the loving care of God in their lives.