Topical Bible: Onyx: Contributed by Israelites for the Priests' Garments

◄ Onyx: Contributed by Israelites for the Priests' Garments ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Onyx is a precious stone mentioned several times in the Bible, particularly in the context of the construction of the Tabernacle and the garments of the High Priest. It is a variety of chalcedony, characterized by its parallel bands of color, typically black and white. In biblical times, onyx was highly valued for its beauty and rarity.

Biblical References:

1. Exodus 25:7 : "and onyx stones and gemstones to be mounted on the ephod and breastpiece." This verse is part of the instructions given by God to Moses regarding the materials to be collected for the construction of the Tabernacle and the priestly garments. Onyx stones were specifically designated for use in the ephod and breastpiece, which were part of the High Priest's sacred attire.

2. Exodus 28:9-12 : "Take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel: six of their names on one stone and the remaining six on the other, in the order of their birth. Engrave the two stones with the names of the sons of Israel, as a jeweler engraves a seal, and mount them in gold filigree settings. Fasten both stones onto 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." These verses describe the specific use of onyx stones in the High Priest's ephod. The stones were engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, serving as a perpetual reminder of the covenant between God and His people.

3. Exodus 35:9 : "and onyx stones and gemstones to be mounted on the ephod and breastpiece." This verse reiterates the earlier command, emphasizing the importance of onyx in the construction of the priestly garments.

4. Exodus 39:6-7 : "They mounted the onyx stones in gold filigree settings and engraved them like a seal with the names of the sons of Israel. Then they fastened them on the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones for the sons of Israel, just as the LORD had commanded Moses." This passage describes the fulfillment of God's instructions, highlighting the craftsmanship involved in preparing the onyx stones for the ephod.

Symbolism and Significance:

In the context of the High Priest's garments, onyx stones held deep symbolic meaning. They represented the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying the unity and collective identity of God's chosen people. The placement of the stones on the shoulders of the High Priest symbolized the priest's role as a mediator between God and the Israelites, bearing their names and, by extension, their burdens before the Lord.

The use of onyx in the priestly garments also underscored the sanctity and divine appointment of the High Priest. The preciousness of the stones reflected the holiness and honor associated with the priestly office, as well as the beauty and glory of God's presence among His people.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, onyx was prized for its aesthetic qualities and was often used in jewelry and decorative arts. Its inclusion in the biblical narrative highlights the Israelites' access to valuable resources and their willingness to contribute these treasures for the service of God.

The Israelites' contribution of onyx stones, along with other precious materials, demonstrated their devotion and obedience to God's commands. It also illustrated the communal effort required to establish a place of worship that was worthy of the divine presence.

Overall, the onyx stones in the High Priest's garments served as a tangible reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, the responsibilities of the priesthood, and the beauty of holiness in the worship of the Almighty.