Exodus 28:10
Six of their names on one stone, and the other six names of the rest on the other stone, according to their birth.
Original Language Analysis
הַשִּׁשָּׁ֧ה
Six
H8337
הַשִּׁשָּׁ֧ה
Six
Strong's:
H8337
Word #:
1 of 13
six (as an overplus beyond five or the fingers of the hand); as ordinal, sixth
שְׁמ֞וֹת
names
H8034
שְׁמ֞וֹת
names
Strong's:
H8034
Word #:
2 of 13
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
עַ֖ל
H5921
עַ֖ל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
3 of 13
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
הָֽאֶחָ֑ת
on one
H259
הָֽאֶחָ֑ת
on one
Strong's:
H259
Word #:
5 of 13
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
6 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
שְׁמ֞וֹת
names
H8034
שְׁמ֞וֹת
names
Strong's:
H8034
Word #:
7 of 13
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
הַשִּׁשָּׁ֧ה
Six
H8337
הַשִּׁשָּׁ֧ה
Six
Strong's:
H8337
Word #:
8 of 13
six (as an overplus beyond five or the fingers of the hand); as ordinal, sixth
הַנּֽוֹתָרִ֛ים
of the rest
H3498
הַנּֽוֹתָרִ֛ים
of the rest
Strong's:
H3498
Word #:
9 of 13
to jut over or exceed; by implication, to excel; (intransitively) to remain or be left; causatively to leave, cause to abound, preserve
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
10 of 13
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Historical Context
The birth order listing (Reuben as firstborn through Benjamin as youngest) reflected the patriarchal structure while avoiding favoritism based on current tribal status. Jacob's sons, despite their varied histories and Leah versus Rachel's rivalry, were equally represented.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's equal representation of all believers combat favoritism in the church?
- What does the unity of twelve names (despite two stones) teach about church unity amid diversity?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Six tribal names on each stone, listed by birth: Reuben through Zebulun on one, the rest on the other. This division maintains the twelve's unity (both stones present) while acknowledging individual identity (names separated). The high priest can't bear one tribe without the other—all Israel comes together. Christ's priestly work benefits the entire church; He doesn't intercede for some while neglecting others. All are equally represented.