Exodus 28:20
And the fourth row a beryl, and an onyx, and a jasper: they shall be set in gold in their inclosings.
Original Language Analysis
וְשֹׁ֖הַם
and an onyx
H7718
וְשֹׁ֖הַם
and an onyx
Strong's:
H7718
Word #:
4 of 9
a gem, probably the beryl (from its pale green color)
וְיָֽשְׁפֵ֑ה
and a jasper
H3471
וְיָֽשְׁפֵ֑ה
and a jasper
Strong's:
H3471
Word #:
5 of 9
a gem supposed to be jasper (from the resemblance in name)
מְשֻׁבָּצִ֥ים
they shall be set
H7660
מְשֻׁבָּצִ֥ים
they shall be set
Strong's:
H7660
Word #:
6 of 9
to interweave (colored) threads in squares; by implication (of reticulation) to inchase gems in gold
זָהָ֛ב
in gold
H2091
זָהָ֛ב
in gold
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
7 of 9
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
Historical Context
Beryl (תַּרְשִׁישׁ, tarshish) was likely golden chrysolite. Jasper (יָשְׁפֵה, yashpheh) was possibly green jasper. These completing stones were no less valuable than the first—from beginning to end, all are precious to God.
Questions for Reflection
- How does being 'set in gold' (framed by divine glory) give meaning to your identity?
- What does the completion of twelve stones teach about God's comprehensive care for all His people?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The fourth row: beryl, onyx, jasper—all set in gold settings. These final stones complete the twelve, representing all Israel. Jasper represents divine glory (Revelation 4:3, 21:11). Gold settings frame each stone, showing that human identity receives context from divine glory. We are who we are because of who He is. The completion of four rows signifies comprehensive representation—all of God's people, all the time, are on the High Priest's heart.