Exodus 39:17
And they put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings on the ends of the breastplate.
Original Language Analysis
וַֽיִּתְּנ֗וּ
And they put
H5414
וַֽיִּתְּנ֗וּ
And they put
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
1 of 10
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
הָֽעֲבֹתֹ֣ת
wreathen chains
H5688
הָֽעֲבֹתֹ֣ת
wreathen chains
Strong's:
H5688
Word #:
3 of 10
something intwined, i.e., a string, wreath or foliage
הַזָּהָ֔ב
of gold
H2091
הַזָּהָ֔ב
of gold
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
4 of 10
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
5 of 10
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
הַטַּבָּעֹ֑ת
rings
H2885
הַטַּבָּעֹ֑ת
rings
Strong's:
H2885
Word #:
7 of 10
properly, a seal (as sunk into the wax), i.e., signet (for sealing); hence (generally) a ring of any kind
Historical Context
The assembly sequence—first making individual components, then connecting them—mirrors construction wisdom: components must be complete before assembly. This methodical approach ensured proper function and demonstrated that worship of the holy God requires order, not confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33, 40).
Questions for Reflection
- How does the breastplate's interconnected assembly illustrate believers' organic unity in Christ's body?
- What does the need for 'linking' components teach about maintaining unity in the church?
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Analysis & Commentary
Putting the gold chains in the breastplate rings completes the upper connection between breastplate and ephod. The meticulous assembly instructions fulfilled 'as the LORD commanded Moses' (though not stated here, assumed from context). Each linking component—chains, rings, settings—ensures the breastplate remains securely positioned over Aaron's heart during ministry. This interconnected design prefigures the church's organic unity in Christ (Ephesians 4:15-16), where diverse members are 'fitly joined together' through Him. No believer is isolated; all are connected through the High Priest.