Exodus 39:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 39:6
6 And they wrought onyx stones inclosed in ouches of gold, graven, as signets are graven, with the names of the children of Israel.
Chapter Context
Exodus 39 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, holiness, creation. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 39:6
6 And they wrought onyx stones inclosed in ouches of gold, graven, as signets are graven, with the names of the children of Israel.
Analysis
The onyx stones engraved with Israel's tribal names, set in gold (שֹׁהַם, shoham, onyx), were 'graven, as signets are graven' (פִּתּוּחֵי חֹתָם, pituche chotam, engravings of a seal). Signet engravings denote ownership and authority—Israel belongs to God, sealed by covenant. The stones' permanence contrasts with human fickleness; the names engraved on unchanging stone symbolize God's unbreakable covenant promises. These stones on the priest's shoulders prefigure Christ bearing His elect perpetually before the Father (John 10:28-29; Hebrews 7:25).
Historical Context
Onyx, a semi-precious stone with alternating bands of color, was highly valued in the ancient world. Signet engraving required exceptional skill to produce mirror-image text. The comparison to signet engraving emphasizes the permanence and authority of these tribal names.
Reflection
- What assurance does it give that believers' names are engraved, not written in erasable ink, before God?
- How does Christ bearing His people 'as a seal' demonstrate the security of salvation?
Cross-References
- References Israel: Exodus 28:9