Exodus 39:20

They made two additional gold rings and attached them to the bottom of the two shoulder pieces of the ephod, on its front, near the seam just above its woven waistband.

Study Bible

They made two additional gold rings
The use of gold in the construction of the ephod signifies the preciousness and divine nature of the priestly garments. Gold is often associated with royalty and divinity throughout the Bible, as seen in the construction of the Tabernacle and Solomon's Temple. The addition of these rings indicates meticulous attention to detail and adherence to God's specific instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 28:6-14).

and attached them to the bottom of the two shoulder pieces of the ephod
The ephod was a sacred garment worn by the high priest, and its design was crucial for the proper function of the priestly duties. The shoulder pieces were significant as they bore the names of the tribes of Israel, symbolizing the high priest's role in representing the people before God. The attachment of the rings to the shoulder pieces ensured the secure fastening of the breastpiece, which contained the Urim and Thummim, used for divine decision-making (Exodus 28:30).

on its front, near the seam
The placement of the rings on the front of the ephod highlights the importance of visibility and accessibility in the priestly garments. The seam indicates a point of connection and strength, ensuring that the ephod was both functional and durable. This careful construction reflects the order and precision that God requires in worship and service.

just above its woven waistband
The woven waistband, or sash, was an integral part of the ephod, symbolizing readiness and service. In biblical times, girding oneself with a belt or sash was a sign of preparation for work or battle (1 Peter 1:13). The positioning of the rings just above the waistband emphasizes the interconnectedness of the priestly garments, each part serving a specific purpose in the high priest's ministry.

This verse, in its detailed description of the ephod's construction, underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands and the sacredness of the priestly role in mediating between God and His people. The ephod, as part of the high priest's attire, is a type of Christ, who is our ultimate High Priest, representing us before God and interceding on our behalf (Hebrews 4:14-16).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The people of God who were given the task of constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings according to God's instructions.

2. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred garments.

3. The Ephod
A sacred garment worn by the High Priest, part of the priestly vestments, symbolizing the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people.

4. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

5. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites wandered for 40 years, during which the Tabernacle was constructed and used.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
The meticulous construction of the ephod and its components underscores the importance of obeying God's commands in every detail. As believers, we are called to follow God's Word with precision and reverence.

Symbolism of the Ephod
The ephod represents the priestly role of mediation and intercession. In Christ, we have the ultimate High Priest who intercedes for us, and we are called to intercede for others in prayer.

The Role of Skilled Service
Bezalel and Oholiab's craftsmanship reminds us that God values and uses our skills and talents for His purposes. We should seek to use our abilities to serve God and His people.

The Presence of God
The Tabernacle, and by extension the ephod, symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people. As Christians, we are temples of the Holy Spirit, called to live in a way that reflects God's presence in us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the ephod in Exodus 39:20 reflect the importance of obedience to God's specific instructions?

2. In what ways does the role of the High Priest in the Old Testament foreshadow the ministry of Jesus Christ as described in Hebrews 8-9?

3. How can we apply the concept of being a "royal priesthood" from 1 Peter 2:9 in our daily lives?

4. What skills or talents has God given you, and how can you use them to serve His kingdom, as Bezalel and Oholiab did?

5. How does understanding the symbolism of the Tabernacle and its furnishings enhance your appreciation of God's presence in your life today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28
Provides detailed instructions for making the priestly garments, including the ephod, highlighting the importance of following God's commands precisely.

Hebrews 8-9
Discusses the role of the High Priest and the significance of the Tabernacle as a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate priesthood and the heavenly sanctuary.

1 Peter 2:9
Describes believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the priestly garments' symbolism to the identity and role of Christians today.