Exodus 39:9

It was square when folded over double, a span long and a span wide.

Study Bible

It was square when folded over double,

The doubled construction formed a pouch for the Urim and Thummim, by which the high priest sought the Lord’s judgment for Israel. Worn over the heart, the breastpiece bore the names of the twelve tribes on precious stones, declaring that all Israel stood before God through the priestly mediation He appointed.

Exo 27:1 You are to build an altar of acacia wood.…
Exo 30:2 It is to be square, a cubit long, a cubit wide…
Rev 21:16 The city lies foursquare, with its width…

a span long and a span wide.

Each side measured about nine inches. The precise dimensions display the care required in Israel’s worship and the completeness of God’s provision for approaching Him. The high priest’s ministry anticipated Christ, the true High Priest, who represents His people continually before the Father.

Exo 28:16 It must be square when folded over double,…
1Sa 17:4 Then a champion named Goliath, who was from Gath,…
Psa 39:5 You, indeed, have made my days as handbreadths,…

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the priestly garments.

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

3. The Breastpiece
A sacred garment worn by the High Priest, made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen, folded to form a square.

4. The High Priest
The chief religious leader of the Israelites, who wore the breastpiece as part of his ceremonial attire.

5. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, for whom the Tabernacle and its furnishings were constructed as a means of worship and communion with God.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Breastpiece
The breastpiece represents the High Priest's role in bearing the names of the tribes of Israel before God, symbolizing intercession and remembrance.

Precision and Obedience
The specific measurements and materials used in the breastpiece highlight the importance of following God's instructions with precision and obedience.

God's Presence and Guidance
The breastpiece, part of the High Priest's attire, signifies God's presence and guidance, reminding us of the importance of seeking God's direction in our lives.

Intercession and Prayer
Just as the High Priest interceded for the Israelites, we are called to intercede for others in prayer, bringing their needs before God.

Christ as Our High Priest
The breastpiece foreshadows Christ's role as our High Priest, who continually intercedes for us, offering us access to God's presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the breastpiece reflect the importance of following God's specific instructions in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the role of the High Priest in the Old Testament point to the work of Jesus as our Great High Priest?

3. How can we incorporate the practice of intercession into our daily prayer life, following the example of the High Priest?

4. What does the symbolism of the breastpiece teach us about the importance of remembering and praying for others in our community?

5. How can we seek God's presence and guidance in our lives, as symbolized by the High Priest's attire and role?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28:15-30
Provides detailed instructions for making the breastpiece, emphasizing its significance and the materials used.

Leviticus 8:8
Describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons, where the breastpiece is placed on Aaron, signifying his role as High Priest.

Hebrews 4:14-16
Connects the role of the High Priest in the Old Testament to Jesus as our Great High Priest, who intercedes for us.