What role does the Urim and Thummim play in seeking God's guidance here? Setting the Scene: A Priestly Question in Post-Exile Judah “ The governor ordered them not to eat the most holy food until a priest could consult the Urim and Thummim.” (Ezra 2:63) • Returned exiles were re-establishing temple service. • Several men claimed priestly descent, but their genealogical records were missing (Ezra 2:59–62). • Zerubbabel (the “governor,” cf. Haggai 1:1) paused their full priestly privileges until divine confirmation could be secured “by the Urim and Thummim.” What Were the Urim and Thummim? • “Lights” and “Perfections” (or “Curses” and “Perfections”). • Placed “in the breastpiece of judgment” worn by the high priest (Exodus 28:30; Leviticus 8:8). • A tangible means God ordained for rendering yes/no or guilt/innocence decisions. • Only the high priest could wield them, underscoring their sacred purpose. Snapshots of Their Use in Israel’s History • Numbers 27:21 – Joshua’s military guidance came “by the judgment of the Urim.” • 1 Samuel 14:41 – Saul sought the culprit of Israel’s sin; God answered through the Urim/Thummim. • 1 Samuel 28:6 – In Saul’s rebellion God withheld answers “by dreams, Urim, or prophets,” highlighting their normal place in divine communication. Why the Urim and Thummim in Ezra 2:63? • Genealogies were missing, but holiness standards could not be relaxed (Leviticus 21:17–23). • Sacred food was reserved only for verified priests (Numbers 18:8–13). • The community had just returned from judgment; strict obedience mattered. • Turning to the Urim and Thummim ensured: – God Himself confirmed or denied each claimant, preventing human favoritism. – Unity: all parties would accept the result as God’s verdict. – Continuity: the same instrument that guided Moses and Joshua would guide the restored remnant. What This Reveals About Seeking God’s Guidance • God provides concrete means to reveal His will; human uncertainty is met with divine clarity. • Spiritual leadership should wait for God’s answer rather than hurry decisions that affect worship. • Divine guidance safeguards holiness; it is better to delay privileges than defile sacred service. From Urim and Thummim to the Fullness of Revelation • The last Old Testament mention of Urim and Thummim is here; afterward Scripture shifts focus to prophetic word and, ultimately, to the incarnate Word (John 1:14). • Hebrews 1:1-2 reminds us God now “has spoken to us by His Son,” and the Spirit guides believers “into all truth” (John 16:13). • The pattern remains: submit questions to God, await His answer, and honor His verdict, trusting the reliability of His revealed Word. |
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