Exodus 39:15
And they made upon the breastplate chains at the ends, of wreathen work of pure gold.
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּֽעֲשׂ֧וּ
And they made
H6213
וַיַּֽעֲשׂ֧וּ
And they made
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 9
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 9
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
הַחֹ֛שֶׁן
upon the breastplate
H2833
הַחֹ֛שֶׁן
upon the breastplate
Strong's:
H2833
Word #:
3 of 9
perhaps a pocket (as holding the urim and thummim), or rich (as containing gems), used only of the gorget of the highpriest
מַֽעֲשֵׂ֣ה
work
H4639
מַֽעֲשֵׂ֣ה
work
Strong's:
H4639
Word #:
6 of 9
an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property
עֲבֹ֑ת
of wreathen
H5688
עֲבֹ֑ת
of wreathen
Strong's:
H5688
Word #:
7 of 9
something intwined, i.e., a string, wreath or foliage
Historical Context
Braided gold chains, stronger than single wires, connected the breastplate securely to the ephod so vigorous priestly activity wouldn't dislodge it. The chains' craftsmanship required exceptional skill to produce flexible yet durable connectors from precious metal.
Questions for Reflection
- What comfort comes from Christ's strength (shoulders) being inseparably chained to His love (heart) for you?
- How should pastors today maintain the balance between strong leadership and compassionate shepherding?
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Analysis & Commentary
The 'wreathen chains' (שַׁרְשְׁרֹת גַּבְלֻת, sharshrot gavlut, braided chains) of pure gold attached the breastplate to the ephod's shoulders (v. 18), creating inseparable unity between bearing Israel in strength (shoulders) and affection (heart). The 'pure gold' (זָהָב טָהוֹר, zahav tahor) signifies unalloyed divine glory connecting priestly functions. These chains could not be broken, teaching that Christ's dual role as powerful Savior and compassionate High Priest remains forever unified. Believers are secure because omnipotent strength and infinite love are chained together in one Mediator.