Exodus 39:16
And they made two ouches of gold, and two gold rings; and put the two rings in the two ends of the breastplate.
Original Language Analysis
וַֽיַּעֲשׂ֗וּ
And they made
H6213
וַֽיַּעֲשׂ֗וּ
And they made
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 15
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
מִשְׁבְּצֹ֣ת
ouches
H4865
מִשְׁבְּצֹ֣ת
ouches
Strong's:
H4865
Word #:
3 of 15
a brocade; by analogy, a (reticulated) setting of a gem
זָהָ֑ב
gold
H2091
זָהָ֑ב
gold
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
4 of 15
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
הַטַּבָּעֹ֔ת
rings
H2885
הַטַּבָּעֹ֔ת
rings
Strong's:
H2885
Word #:
6 of 15
properly, a seal (as sunk into the wax), i.e., signet (for sealing); hence (generally) a ring of any kind
זָהָ֑ב
gold
H2091
זָהָ֑ב
gold
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
7 of 15
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
וַֽיִּתְּנ֗וּ
and put
H5414
וַֽיִּתְּנ֗וּ
and put
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
8 of 15
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
9 of 15
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַטַּבָּעֹ֔ת
rings
H2885
הַטַּבָּעֹ֔ת
rings
Strong's:
H2885
Word #:
11 of 15
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 #:
12 of 15
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Historical Context
Gold rings, forged from the same precious metal as the visible stones, performed essential but less prominent functions. The craftsmen's equal care in producing connectors and showpieces reflected the principle that all worship implements deserved excellent workmanship, regardless of visibility.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's care in designing 'connector' pieces encourage believers serving in less visible roles?
- What does every component having specific purpose teach about believers' diverse but equally valuable gifts?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The two gold settings (מִשְׁבְּצֹת, mishbetsot, filigree) and two rings (טַבָּעוֹת, taba'ot) attached to the breastplate's ends enabled connection to the ephod. Every component has purpose—God's design leaves nothing to chance. The rings' function (enabling connection) without inherent glory teaches that some roles facilitate others' visibility. In Christ's body, some members enable others' ministries without seeking prominence (1 Corinthians 12:22-24). The attention to connector details demonstrates that God values faithful service in 'hidden' roles.