Exodus 28:23
And thou shalt make upon the breastplate two rings of gold, and shalt put the two rings on the two ends of the breastplate.
Original Language Analysis
וְעָשִׂ֙יתָ֙
And thou shalt make
H6213
וְעָשִׂ֙יתָ֙
And thou shalt make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 14
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 14
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
הַחֹֽשֶׁן׃
of the breastplate
H2833
הַחֹֽשֶׁן׃
of the breastplate
Strong's:
H2833
Word #:
3 of 14
perhaps a pocket (as holding the urim and thummim), or rich (as containing gems), used only of the gorget of the highpriest
הַטַּבָּע֔וֹת
rings
H2885
הַטַּבָּע֔וֹת
rings
Strong's:
H2885
Word #:
5 of 14
properly, a seal (as sunk into the wax), i.e., signet (for sealing); hence (generally) a ring of any kind
זָהָ֑ב
of gold
H2091
זָהָ֑ב
of gold
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
6 of 14
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
וְנָֽתַתָּ֗
and shalt put
H5414
וְנָֽתַתָּ֗
and shalt put
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
7 of 14
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
8 of 14
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַטַּבָּע֔וֹת
rings
H2885
הַטַּבָּע֔וֹת
rings
Strong's:
H2885
Word #:
10 of 14
properly, a seal (as sunk into the wax), i.e., signet (for sealing); hence (generally) a ring of any kind
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
11 of 14
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Historical Context
The rings (טַבָּעֹת, taba'ot) were likely cast gold, soldered to the breastplate's corners. Their circular form created ideal connection points—flexible yet secure, allowing movement without separation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's ministry combine emotional care (heart) with powerful action (shoulders)?
- What does permanent connection (rings) teach about unbreakable priestly representation?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Two gold rings attach to the breastplate's top corners, connecting it to the ephod via golden chains. Rings represent continuity—no beginning, no end. Gold rings create permanent attachment points. The connection between chest (heart) and shoulders (strength) shows priestly ministry flows from love and power united. Christ doesn't minister from strength alone or love alone, but both together in perfect harmony.