Meaning of Exodus 28:15

This verse, Exodus 28:15, describes the construction of a crucial piece of the High Priest's vestments: the breastpiece. This ornate garment was not merely decorative but served a profound functional and symbolic purpose within the Israelite sanctuary. It was to be meticulously crafted by skilled artisans, mirroring the design of the ephod, and made from precious materials such as gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely twisted linen. This emphasis on skilled craftsmanship and costly materials underscores the sacredness and importance of this priestly attire, indicating that it was a divine commission, intended for service in God's presence. The breastpiece was specifically designated "for making decisions," highlighting its role in discerning God's will for the people of Israel.

Context and Background

The instructions for the High Priest's garments, including the breastpiece, are found in Exodus 28. This chapter details the elaborate wardrobe God commanded Moses to have made for Aaron and his sons, who were to serve as priests in the Tabernacle. The Tabernacle was a portable sanctuary, God's dwelling place among His people, and its furnishings and priestly attire were all designed according to divine specifications to ensure holiness and proper access to God. The breastpiece was to be attached to the ephod, a sleeveless outer garment worn by the High Priest.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Authority and Guidance: The primary function of the breastpiece was to facilitate divine guidance. The phrase "for making decisions" (Hebrew: 'ēśēṯ ḥōšĕn mîšpāṭ) signifies its role in seeking and receiving God's judgment or counsel. This highlights that leadership and decision-making within Israel were meant to be guided by God.
• Skilled Craftsmanship and Dedication: The directive for the breastpiece to be made "by the work of skilled hands" emphasizes that service to God requires diligence, talent, and dedication. The resources and artistry dedicated to this sacred object reflect the value God placed on His covenant people and His desire for them to approach Him with reverence and order.
• Symbolism of Materials: The use of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely twisted linen carries significant symbolic weight. Gold often represents divinity and royalty; blue, purple, and scarlet are rich, expensive dyes associated with royalty and divine favor; and finely twisted linen is a symbol of purity and righteousness. Together, these materials underscore the sacred nature of the priesthood and the divine authority it represented.

Spiritual Significance and Application

The breastpiece serves as a potent symbol of God's desire to communicate with His people and guide them. For believers today, it points to the importance of seeking God's wisdom and discernment in all aspects of life. While the physical breastpiece and the Urim and Thummim (which were placed within it, though not explicitly mentioned in this specific verse, they are detailed in Exodus 28:30) are no longer in use after the coming of Christ, the principle of seeking divine guidance remains paramount. The New Testament teaches that believers have direct access to God through Jesus Christ and can receive wisdom through the Holy Spirit.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

The breastpiece is an integral part of the Old Testament covenant system, designed to mediate between a holy God and an imperfect people. Its function of discerning God's will foreshadows the greater revelation of God's will through Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate High Priest. The meticulous instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the breastpiece, establish a pattern of holiness and divine order that continues to inform our understanding of worship and service to God.

Analogies

One analogy for the breastpiece's function is a compass. Just as a compass points the way and helps a traveler navigate, the breastpiece was intended to guide the High Priest, and by extension, the nation of Israel, in the right direction according to God's will. Another analogy could be a royal seal. The breastpiece, with its precious materials and prominent position, was akin to a royal seal of authority, signifying that the decisions made with its aid were divinely sanctioned.

Relation to Other Verses

• Exodus 28:30: "Also put the Urim and the Thummim into the breastpiece, so they may be on Aaron’s heart whenever he enters the presence of the LORD. Thus Aaron will always bear the Urim and Thummim over his heart when he enters the presence of the LORD. Now make the other priestly garments, the ornate garments for glory and splendor." This verse directly links the breastpiece to the Urim and Thummim, the objects used to discern God's will.
• 1 Samuel 23:9-12: This passage describes David asking Abiathar the priest to "Bring the ephod," demonstrating the practical use of priestly garments in seeking God's guidance during times of crisis.
• Hebrews 4:14-16: This New Testament passage speaks of Jesus as our Great High Priest who has passed through the heavens and whom we can approach with confidence to receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need, implying a fulfillment of the Old Testament priestly functions.
• James 1:5: "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." This verse echoes the principle of seeking divine wisdom, a core function represented by the breastpiece.