Topical Encyclopedia The term "breast-piece" in the Bible primarily refers to the "breastpiece of judgment" worn by the High Priest of Israel as part of the sacred garments prescribed by God for service in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. This breastpiece is a significant element of the priestly attire, symbolizing the High Priest's role as an intercessor for the people of Israel before God.Biblical Description and Construction The breastpiece is described in detail in the Book of Exodus. It was to be made by skilled craftsmen using materials of the highest quality. Exodus 28:15-30 provides the specific instructions for its construction: "You are to fashion a breastpiece for making decisions—the work of a skilled craftsman. You are to make it like the ephod, with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with finely spun linen. It must be square when folded over, a span long and a span wide. And mount on it a setting of gemstones—four rows of stones: The first row shall be a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald; the second row shall be a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond; the third row shall be a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst; the fourth row shall be a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. Mount these stones in gold filigree settings. The twelve stones are to correspond to the names of the sons of Israel, each engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes." The breastpiece was attached to the ephod, another part of the High Priest's garments, by gold chains and blue cords, ensuring it remained securely in place over the heart of the High Priest. Symbolism and Function The breastpiece served both a symbolic and functional purpose. It was known as the "breastpiece of judgment" because it contained the Urim and Thummim, mysterious objects used to discern God's will in decision-making. Exodus 28:30 states, "And place the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece of judgment, so that they will be over Aaron’s heart whenever he enters the presence of the LORD. Thus Aaron will always bear the means of making decisions for the Israelites over his heart before the LORD." The twelve stones on the breastpiece, each representing one of the tribes of Israel, signified the High Priest's role in bearing the people before God. The breastpiece's placement over the heart symbolized the priest's duty to carry the concerns and needs of the people with compassion and sincerity. Theological Significance The breastpiece is a profound representation of the mediatorial role of the High Priest, prefiguring the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who intercedes for believers before God. Hebrews 4:14-16 speaks of Christ as the great High Priest who sympathizes with human weaknesses and provides access to God's throne of grace. In the broader context of biblical theology, the breastpiece underscores the importance of divine guidance and the necessity of a mediator between God and humanity. It highlights the covenant relationship between God and His people, with the High Priest serving as a vital link in maintaining that relationship through intercession and sacrifice. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Near Eastern cultures, breastpieces or similar items were often worn by priests and leaders as symbols of authority and divine favor. The biblical breastpiece, however, is unique in its detailed instructions and its specific role in the religious life of Israel. It reflects the distinctiveness of Israel's worship and the centrality of the priesthood in maintaining the covenantal relationship with God. The breastpiece, as part of the High Priest's garments, was a visual reminder of the holiness required in approaching God and the seriousness of the priestly office. It served as a constant reminder of the need for purity, dedication, and the weighty responsibility of representing the people before the Almighty. Library The Story of Panthea. Thesaurus Breast-pieces (2 Occurrences)Breast-pieces. Breastpiece, Breast-pieces. Breastplate . Multi-Version Concordance Breast-pieces (2 Occurrences). Leviticus ... /b/breast-pieces.htm - 7k Breastpiece (21 Occurrences) Breastplate (45 Occurrences) Papyrus (4 Occurrences) Pieces (209 Occurrences) Resources What were the various sacrifices in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.orgCan a Christian woman consider getting breast implants / breast augmentation? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of thirty pieces of silver? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Breast-pieces (2 Occurrences)Leviticus 9:20 Leviticus 9:21 Subtopics Related Terms |
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