Exodus 28:12
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 28:12
12 And thou shalt put the two stones upon the shoulders of the ephod for stones of memorial unto the children of Israel: and Aaron shall bear their names before the LORD upon his two shoulders for a memorial.
Chapter Context
Exodus 28 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, worship, wisdom. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-43: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 28:12
12 And thou shalt put the two stones upon the shoulders of the ephod for stones of memorial unto the children of Israel: and Aaron shall bear their names before the LORD upon his two shoulders for a memorial.
Analysis
The stones are placed on the ephod's shoulders as 'stones of memorial unto the children of Israel.' Memorial suggests both remembrance and testimony—God remembers His people, and the stones testify to that remembrance. Aaron bears the names 'before the Lord'—in God's presence, constantly visible. This memorial is God-ward (reminding Him) and man-ward (testifying to Israel). Christ's continual intercession serves both purposes—He reminds the Father of His promises, and we're assured of His advocacy.
Historical Context
The shoulder placement meant these memorial stones were visible when the high priest stood before the veil or entered the Most Holy Place. Every priestly act occurred with Israel's names literally on the priest's shoulders.
Reflection
- How does Christ's intercession serve as both reminder to God and assurance to you?
- What does it mean that your name is 'always before the Lord' in Christ?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 28:29, Leviticus 24:7, Numbers 16:40, 31:54, Joshua 4:7