What does Exodus 39:17 mean?
ESV: And they put the two cords of gold in the two rings at the edges of the breastpiece.
NIV: They fastened the two gold chains to the rings at the corners of the breastpiece,
NASB: Then they put the two gold cords in the two rings at the ends of the breastpiece.
CSB: Then they attached the two gold cords to the two gold rings on the corners of the breastpiece.
NLT: They tied the two gold cords to the rings on the chestpiece.
KJV: And they put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings on the ends of the breastplate.
NKJV: And they put the two braided chains of gold in the two rings on the ends of the breastplate.
Verse Commentary:
Verse Context:
Exodus 39:8–21 says that Bezalel (Exodus 35:30) exactly follows the instructions given in Exodus 28:15–30. These describe a breastplate worn by Israel's high priest. The plate includes twelve stones engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel.
Chapter Summary:
Israel's craftsmen (Exodus 30:10, 30, 34) make the ceremonial clothes used in the tabernacle. These include an "ephod," a breastplate, a robe, and a turban with an engraved headpiece. The high priest will wear these. Other garments are for the rest of the priesthood. Instructions from Moses' encounter with the Lord (Exodus 28:6–43) are closely followed in this process. After inspection, Moses blesses those who have completed the work.
Chapter Context:
Israel is building the tabernacle (Exodus 25:8–9) according to the Lord's instructions (Exodus 35—38). Most records of their work closely match the phrasing of God's original statements to Moses (Exodus 25—31). This emphasizes that the Israelites are committed to careful obedience. This chapter completes the preparation phase. The next, final chapter describes the tabernacle's assembly and God's response (Exodus 40).
Book Summary:
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.
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