What is the meaning of Exodus 28:10? Context and Setting Exodus 28 describes the priestly garments God commanded Moses to make for Aaron. Verse 10 sits within the instructions for the ephod’s shoulder pieces: “six of their names on one stone and the remaining six on the other, in the order of their birth”. Similar detail appears in Exodus 28:9–12 and is carried out in Exodus 39:6–7. These stones, called onyx in verse 9, rested on the priest’s shoulders, beneath the gold chains that linked to the breastpiece. The arrangement teaches three key truths also echoed in Leviticus 8:7–9; Hebrews 7:26–27. Six of Their Names •All twelve tribes were represented, but God deliberately split them—six on one stone, six on the other (Exodus 1:1–4 lists the births). •This even division highlights God’s impartial concern for every tribe (cf. Deuteronomy 33:1–5; Acts 10:34). •The fact that no tribe was omitted or merged reminds us of Jesus’ promise that none of His own will be lost (John 6:39; 10:27–29). On One Stone •The names were engraved “like a signet,” permanent and unmistakable (Exodus 28:11). •Being grouped on a single stone pictures unity—many names, one people (Numbers 15:15–16; Ephesians 4:4–6). •The stone rested on the priest’s shoulder, the place of strength (Isaiah 9:6), portraying divine power carrying the people. And the Remaining Six on the Other •The Lord balanced the second stone on the opposite shoulder, presenting a matched pair (Exodus 28:12). •This symmetry underscores completeness (Joshua 21:43–45). Not half the tribes were near to God—every tribe enjoyed equal access (Romans 2:11). •Because both stones were worn at once, the priest bore the full burden of intercession, foreshadowing Christ who “always lives to intercede” (Hebrews 7:25). In the Order of Their Birth •The sequence was historical, not political or geographical, stressing God’s sovereignty in choosing and arranging His people (Genesis 29–30; 35:16–18). •Birth order kept any tribe from claiming preference based on later achievements (Jeremiah 9:23–24). •By preserving the original order, God affirmed continuity from patriarchs to priesthood to Messiah (Matthew 1:1–2). Living Significance •The engraved stones show believers today that our names are likewise secure before God (Luke 10:20; Revelation 3:5). •Shoulder placement pictures divine strength carrying us (Isaiah 46:3–4). •The priest faced God with the tribes on His shoulders, prefiguring Jesus bearing us into the Father’s presence (1 Peter 3:18). •The paired stones inspire mutual care within the church: every believer counts, none can be forgotten (1 Corinthians 12:24–26). summary Exodus 28:10 commands that the tribes be engraved six on one onyx stone and six on the other, in birth order. God’s design spotlights inclusiveness, permanence, balance, and historical continuity. Worn on the high priest’s shoulders, the stones proclaim that God’s people rest on divine strength and are continually brought before Him. The passage points forward to Christ, our perfect High Priest, who carries every believer’s name with unfailing power and love. |
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