In the Old Testament, the breastplate of the High Priest, also known as the "breastpiece of judgment," was an essential component of the priestly garments, intricately designed according to divine instructions. The chains associated with the breastplate played a crucial role in its construction and function, symbolizing the connection between the High Priest and the divine presence of God.

Biblical Description and Function

The breastplate was a square piece of fabric, adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. It was attached to the ephod, another priestly garment, by means of gold chains. The Book of Exodus provides detailed instructions for the making of these chains: "You are to make braided chains of pure gold cord work for the breastpiece" (Exodus 28:22). These chains were not merely decorative; they served a functional purpose, ensuring that the breastplate remained securely fastened to the ephod.

The chains were attached to gold rings on the breastplate and the ephod, as described in Exodus 28:24-25: "Fasten the two gold chains to the two gold rings at the corners of the breastpiece, and attach the other ends of the two chains to the two settings, fastening them to the shoulder pieces of the ephod at the front." This design ensured that the breastplate was held firmly in place over the heart of the High Priest, symbolizing the priest's role as an intercessor for the people of Israel before God.

Symbolism and Significance

The use of gold in the chains and other elements of the High Priest's garments underscores the sacredness and purity required in approaching God. Gold, a symbol of divinity and kingship, reflects the holiness and majesty of God, whom the High Priest served. The chains, therefore, represent the unbreakable bond between God and His chosen people, mediated through the priestly office.

Moreover, the breastplate's position over the heart of the High Priest signifies the burden of representation he carried for the tribes of Israel. The chains ensured that this representation was constant and unyielding, as the High Priest bore the names of the tribes before the Lord continually. This is further emphasized in Exodus 28:29: "Whenever Aaron enters the Holy Place, he shall bear the names of the sons of Israel over his heart on the breastpiece of judgment, as a continual reminder before the LORD."

Theological Implications

The chains on the breastplate highlight the theological concept of mediation and intercession. The High Priest, as a mediator, foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who intercedes on behalf of humanity. The secure attachment of the breastplate through the chains symbolizes the steadfast and eternal nature of Christ's intercession, as described in the New Testament.

In summary, the chains worn on the breastplate of the High Priest are rich in symbolism and function, reflecting the sacred duties of the priestly office and the enduring relationship between God and His people. Through these chains, the High Priest carried the weight of Israel's identity and covenantal relationship with God, a profound responsibility that pointed forward to the perfect mediation of Christ.Exodus 28:14
And two chains of pure gold at the ends; of wreathen work shall you make them, and fasten the wreathen chains to the ouches.
Nave's Topical Index

Exodus 39:15
And they made on the breastplate chains at the ends, of wreathen work of pure gold.
Nave's Topical Index

Fragrant Spices from the Mountains of Myrrh. "Thou Art all Fair ...
... His esteem as "rows of jewels" and "chains of gold ... Our name is still on His breastplate,
and our persons ... of Israel was the most brilliant ornament worn by the ...
/.../spurgeon/till he come/fragrant spices from the mountains.htm

Paul's Epistles; his Collection for the Poor Saints at Jerusalem ...
... him to be bound with two chains, and demanded who ... of unabated exertion; and now,
though worn down by ... armour of God," including "the breastplate of righteousness ...
/.../killen/the ancient church/chapter ix pauls epistles his.htm

Humbly Inscribed to his Grace the Duke of Newcastle, one of his ...
... Of fruit ambrosial; moral fruit to man. Call it, the breastplate of the true
High Priest,. ... Instead of forging chains for foreigners,. ...
/.../young/youngs night thoughts/humbly inscribed to his grace.htm

Joseph's Faith
... head-dress and unknown emblems hanging by chains of gold ... are our armour"'Put on the
breastplate of faith ... of the alien king which they have worn, and turning ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/josephs faith.htm

Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians.
... Bishop (see [857]Chrysostom, [858]Priest, [859]Ruler) , responsibility of ... Breastplate,
of faith and love, [880]363. ... round the neck, as those of high birth, [918 ...
/.../homilies on philippians colossians and.htm

One Thing is Needful;
... A helmet on his head doth stand, A breastplate on his ... hell; where also they lie bound
In everlasting chains, and no ... 3] Armorial bearings as now worn by heralds ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/one thing is needful.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... other two also came to the foot of the hill; but when they saw that the hill was
steep and high, and that ... (The lions were chained, but he saw not the chains). ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm

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Chains: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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