Exodus 39:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 39:7
7 And he put them on the shoulders of the ephod, that they should be stones for a memorial to the children of Israel; as the LORD commanded Moses.
Chapter Context
Exodus 39 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, wisdom, obedience. 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 39:7
7 And he put them on the shoulders of the ephod, that they should be stones for a memorial to the children of Israel; as the LORD commanded Moses.
Analysis
Placing the engraved stones 'on the shoulders of the ephod' for 'a memorial' (זִכָּרוֹן, zikaron, remembrance) before YHWH teaches that the high priest represented Israel constantly in God's presence. The shoulder signifies strength and support; Aaron bore Israel's names not on weak hands but strong shoulders. This memorial function prefigures Christ's perpetual intercession—He ever lives to make intercession (Hebrews 7:25), bearing His people's names before the Father. The phrase 'as the LORD commanded Moses' (the 2nd of 15 times in chs 39-40) underscores covenant faithfulness.
Historical Context
The 'memorial' concept (zikaron) appears throughout Scripture for practices that bring covenant realities before God and people (Passover, Sabbath, stones at Jordan). Aaron wearing Israel's names symbolized his representative capacity—he stood before God on their behalf.
Reflection
- How does Christ's continual intercession, bearing believers' names before the Father, impact your prayer life?
- What does Aaron's memorial stones teach about God's covenant faithfulness to remember His people?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 28:12, 28:29, Joshua 4:7