Exodus 28:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 28:9
9 And thou shalt take two onyx stones, and grave on them the names of the children of Israel:
Chapter Context
Exodus 28 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, faith, righteousness. 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 illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 28:9
9 And thou shalt take two onyx stones, and grave on them the names of the children of Israel:
Analysis
Two onyx stones engraved with the tribes' names—six names per stone, arranged by birth order. Engraving suggests permanence; these names aren't written but carved into stone. Birth order indicates that God remembers each tribe's history and origin. The high priest bears this permanent record on his shoulders (strength). Christ bears our names permanently—not temporarily remembered but eternally engraved. We are 'graven upon the palms of His hands' (Isaiah 49:16).
Historical Context
Onyx (שֹׁהַם, shoham), a semi-precious stone with layered coloring, was valuable and durable. The engraving required skilled craftsmen to carve the names without breaking the stone—permanent yet delicate work.
Reflection
- What does 'engraved' (versus written) names teach about the permanence of Christ's remembrance of you?
- How does God's remembering your 'birth order' (personal history) encourage you?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Ezekiel 28:13