Exodus 28:25
And the other two ends of the two wreathen chains thou shalt fasten in the two ouches, and put them on the shoulderpieces of the ephod before it.
Original Language Analysis
וְאֵ֨ת
H853
וְאֵ֨ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
1 of 16
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הָֽעֲבֹתֹ֔ת
wreathen
H5688
הָֽעֲבֹתֹ֔ת
wreathen
Strong's:
H5688
Word #:
5 of 16
something intwined, i.e., a string, wreath or foliage
וְנָֽתַתָּ֛ה
and put
H5414
וְנָֽתַתָּ֛ה
and put
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
6 of 16
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
7 of 16
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
הַֽמִּשְׁבְּצ֑וֹת
ouches
H4865
הַֽמִּשְׁבְּצ֑וֹת
ouches
Strong's:
H4865
Word #:
9 of 16
a brocade; by analogy, a (reticulated) setting of a gem
וְנָֽתַתָּ֛ה
and put
H5414
וְנָֽתַתָּ֛ה
and put
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
10 of 16
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
11 of 16
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
כִּתְפ֥וֹת
them on the shoulderpieces
H3802
כִּתְפ֥וֹת
them on the shoulderpieces
Strong's:
H3802
Word #:
12 of 16
the shoulder (proper, i.e., upper end of the arm; as being the spot where the garments hang); figuratively, side-piece or lateral projection of anythi
הָֽאֵפֹ֖ד
of the ephod
H646
הָֽאֵפֹ֖ד
of the ephod
Strong's:
H646
Word #:
13 of 16
a girdle; specifically the ephod or highpriest's shoulder-piece; also generally, an image
Historical Context
The settings (mishbetzot) on shoulder pieces were likely ornate filigree that both beautified and secured connections. Even functional attachments reflected artistry, showing that what serves God's purposes also displays His beauty.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the complete circuit (secure at every point) illustrate Christ's comprehensive priestly work?
- What would happen if any connection failed? How does this relate to salvation's security?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The chains fasten to the ephod's shoulder pieces (two ouches/settings of gold). This creates a complete circuit: breastplate→rings→chains→settings→ephod. The integrity of connection means the priest cannot minister with one piece falling away. All must be secured. Similarly, Christ's priestly work is comprehensive—not partial representation or occasional intercession, but complete, constant ministry. The total attachment reflects total salvation.