Exodus 28:12

Fasten both stones on the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones for the sons of Israel. Aaron is to bear their names on his two shoulders as a memorial before the LORD.

Study Bible

Fasten both stones
The Hebrew word for "fasten" is "שׂוּם" (sum), which means to set, place, or put. This action signifies a deliberate and secure placement, indicating the importance of the stones. In the context of the priestly garments, this fastening is not merely functional but symbolic, representing the permanence and stability of God's covenant with Israel. The stones are to be securely attached, reflecting the unbreakable bond between God and His people.

onto the shoulder pieces of the ephod
The ephod is a sacred vestment worn by the high priest, described in detail in Exodus. The shoulder pieces are integral parts of this garment, symbolizing strength and responsibility. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the shoulder often represented the burden-bearing aspect of leadership. By placing the stones on the shoulders, it signifies that the high priest carries the weight of the tribes of Israel before God, interceding on their behalf.

as memorial stones
The Hebrew term for "memorial" is "זִכָּרוֹן" (zikaron), which means remembrance or reminder. These stones serve as a perpetual reminder of the twelve tribes of Israel. In a broader theological sense, they symbolize God's faithfulness and the enduring nature of His promises. The memorial aspect underscores the importance of remembering God's past acts of deliverance and His ongoing relationship with His people.

for the sons of Israel
This phrase refers to the twelve tribes descended from the sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. Each stone represents one of the tribes, highlighting the collective identity and unity of the nation. The high priest, by wearing these stones, acts as a representative of all Israel, emphasizing the communal aspect of worship and covenant relationship with God.

Aaron is to bear their names
The act of bearing the names signifies representation and advocacy. Aaron, as the high priest, carries the names of the tribes before God, symbolizing his role as an intercessor. This foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who bears the names of believers before the Father, advocating on their behalf.

on his two shoulders
The shoulders are traditionally seen as a place of strength and support. By bearing the names on his shoulders, Aaron demonstrates the priestly duty of carrying the spiritual welfare of the people. This imagery conveys the idea of support and sustenance, reminding believers of the strength found in God's appointed leaders and ultimately in Christ.

as a memorial before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" indicates the presence of God, emphasizing that this act of remembrance is not just for the people but is also a divine ordinance. The memorial is set before God, signifying His constant awareness and acknowledgment of His covenant with Israel. It serves as a reminder of the relationship between God and His people, calling them to faithfulness and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. He is tasked with wearing the ephod and bearing the names of the sons of Israel before the LORD.

2. Sons of Israel
Refers to the twelve tribes of Israel, each represented by a name engraved on the stones.

3. Ephod
A sacred garment worn by the high priest, part of the priestly vestments, which includes shoulder pieces where the stones are fastened.

4. Memorial Stones
Two onyx stones engraved with the names of the twelve tribes, serving as a reminder of the covenant between God and Israel.

5. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, before whom Aaron bears the names of the tribes as a continual remembrance.

Teaching Points

The Role of the High Priest
Aaron's role as a mediator between God and Israel prefigures Christ's ultimate priesthood. Just as Aaron bore the names of the tribes, Christ bears our names before the Father.

The Importance of Remembrance
The memorial stones serve as a constant reminder of God's covenant with His people. We are called to remember God's faithfulness and our identity in Him.

Symbolism of the Stones
The onyx stones symbolize the weight of responsibility and the honor of representing God's people. As believers, we carry the responsibility to represent Christ in the world.

Intercession and Representation
Just as Aaron interceded for Israel, we are called to intercede for others, bringing their needs before God in prayer.

Identity and Community
The names of the tribes on the stones highlight the importance of community and identity in God's plan. We are part of a larger body, the Church, and our identity is found in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Aaron's role as a high priest foreshadow the ministry of Jesus Christ as our High Priest?

2. In what ways can we, as believers, serve as memorials or reminders of God's faithfulness in our communities?

3. How does the concept of bearing the names of the tribes on the stones relate to our responsibility to pray for and support one another in the body of Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can remember and celebrate our identity in Christ daily?

5. How can the symbolism of the ephod and the memorial stones deepen our understanding of our role as representatives of Christ in the world?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 39:6-7
Describes the actual making of the ephod and the engraving of the stones, emphasizing the importance of following God's instructions precisely.

Leviticus 16:21
The high priest's role in bearing the people's sins during the Day of Atonement, symbolically carrying the burden of the people before God.

Isaiah 49:16
God's promise to remember His people, symbolized by engraving them on the palms of His hands, similar to the memorial stones.

Hebrews 7:24-25
Jesus as our eternal High Priest, who continually intercedes for us, paralleling Aaron's role in bearing the names of Israel before God.