Exodus 28:29
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 28:29
29 And Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the breastplate of judgment upon his heart, when he goeth in unto the holy place, for a memorial before the LORD continually.
Chapter Context
Exodus 28 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, faith, truth. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 28:29
29 And Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the breastplate of judgment upon his heart, when he goeth in unto the holy place, for a memorial before the LORD continually.
Analysis
Summary: Aaron bears Israel's names on the breastplate 'upon his heart...continually.' The heart represents love, affection, will. Israel isn't grudgingly tolerated but lovingly cherished. The Hebrew תָּמִיד (tamid, continually) appears repeatedly—showbread continually, lamp continually, breastplate continually. God's provision never lapses. Christ bears our names on His heart perpetually, loving without interruption, representing without ceasing (Hebrews 7:25).
Historical Context
The high priest wore these garments only during tabernacle service, but while serving, the breastplate never left his chest. This 'continual' bearing applied throughout ministry time, prefiguring Christ's eternal ministry.
Reflection
- How does knowing Christ bears your name 'upon his heart' affect your sense of being loved?
- What does 'continually' (never stopping) teach about the reliability of Christ's care?
Word Studies
- Holy: קָדוֹשׁ (Qadosh) H6944 - Holy, set apart
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 28:12, Jeremiah 30:21
- Judgment: Exodus 28:15, 28:30
- References Israel: Romans 10:1
- Related: Song of Solomon 8:6