Exodus 28:9 - Printer Friendly

ESV: You shall take two onyx stones, and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel,

NIV: "Take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel

NASB: And you shall take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel,

CSB: "Take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of Israel’s sons:

NLT: Take two onyx stones, and engrave on them the names of the tribes of Israel.

KJV: And thou shalt take two onyx stones, and grave on them the names of the children of Israel:

NKJV: “Then you shall take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel:

Exodus 28:6–14 describes the "ephod:" a sacred garment (Exodus 28:1–5) something like a vest or smock. The ephod includes shoulder pieces rimmed with ornate gold wiring, which hold engraved onyx stones. These stones record the names of the twelve sons of Israel (Genesis 32:28; Exodus 1:1–5) by order of birth. Braided gold chains will connect the shoulder pieces to a jeweled breastpiece (Exodus 28:15). Only a high priest such as Aaron will wear this (Exodus 40:13–15).

The Lord will assign Aaron and his descendants to be Israel's priests (Numbers 3:10). In this chapter, God describes the priestly garments worn for this office. They are to be beautiful and made with great skill. A high priest's uniform included a breastpiece, a sleeveless smock called an "ephod," as well as a robe, coat, turban, and sash. Other priests wore caps, sashes, coats, and linen underclothes made for their roles. Some items are explained in detail. These garments embody various elements of worship under the Mosaic covenant.

Israel arrived at Sinai (Exodus 19:1–3) where God began to declare His laws (Exodus 19:5–6). These began with the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1–17) and assorted rules (Exodus 21—23). The Lord also explained designs for His sanctuary and its accessories (Exodus 25—27). This chapter specifies how to make priestly garments, beginning with those of the high priest. The following passage shows how to consecrate the priests (Exodus 29) before returning to describe the last items to be constructed (Exodus 30).

The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.

Accessed 7/4/2025 7:30:50 AM