In the context of biblical attire, shoulder-pieces are significant components of the priestly garments, particularly those worn by the High Priest. These pieces are primarily associated with the ephod, a sacred vestment described in the Old Testament.

Biblical Description and Function

The shoulder-pieces are first mentioned in the Book of Exodus, where God provides Moses with detailed instructions for the construction of the High Priest's garments. The ephod, a central element of these garments, includes two shoulder-pieces that are integral to its design. Exodus 28:6-7 states: "They are to make the ephod of finely spun linen, embroidered with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn. It shall have two shoulder pieces attached at two of its corners, so it can be fastened."

These shoulder-pieces serve both a functional and symbolic purpose. Functionally, they help secure the ephod to the priest's body, ensuring that the garment remains in place during priestly duties. Symbolically, they hold great significance as they bear the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. Exodus 28:9-12 explains: "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 names of the sons of Israel on the two stones, as a jeweler engraves a seal. 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."

Symbolism and Theological Significance

The shoulder-pieces, with the engraved onyx stones, symbolize the High Priest's role as a representative and intercessor for the people of Israel before God. By bearing the names of the tribes on his shoulders, the High Priest carries the weight of the nation in his service, signifying his responsibility to mediate between God and His people. This act of bearing the names is a perpetual reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

Theologically, the shoulder-pieces can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ's role as the ultimate High Priest. Just as the High Priest bore the names of the tribes on his shoulders, Jesus Christ bears the sins and burdens of humanity, interceding on behalf of believers. Hebrews 4:14-16 reflects this understanding: "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, garments often held symbolic meanings, and the attire of religious figures was no exception. The use of precious stones and intricate designs in the High Priest's garments reflects the importance of his role and the sacredness of his duties. The shoulder-pieces, with their engraved stones, not only served a practical purpose but also communicated the spiritual and communal responsibilities of the High Priest.

The craftsmanship involved in creating the shoulder-pieces, as described in the biblical text, underscores the value placed on beauty and precision in worship. The use of gold, onyx, and fine linen highlights the reverence and honor due to God, as well as the dignity of the priestly office.

In summary, shoulder-pieces in the biblical context are more than mere components of a garment; they are rich in symbolism and theological meaning, reflecting the profound relationship between God, the High Priest, and the people of Israel.

Marriage of the Blessed virgin to Joseph
... The full sleeves, over which the shoulder-pieces of the scapulary projected, were
lightly held together by bracelets above and below the elbow. ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/vii marriage of the blessed.htm

Shoulderpieces (4 Occurrences)
...Shoulderpieces (4 Occurrences). Exodus 28:7 It shall have the two shoulderpieces
thereof joined at the two edges thereof; and so it shall be joined together. ...
/s/shoulderpieces.htm - 7k

Shoulder-pieces (9 Occurrences)
Shoulder-pieces. Shoulderpieces, Shoulder-pieces. Shoulders . Multi-Version
Concordance ... (DBY). Shoulderpieces, Shoulder-pieces. Shoulders . Reference Bible
/s/shoulder-pieces.htm - 9k

Shoulder-piece
... Shoulderpiece, Shoulder-piece. Shoulderpieces . Int. ... These shoulder-pieces seem
to have been made of a precious texture of linen (or byssos) with threads of gold ...
/s/shoulder-piece.htm - 7k

Pieces (209 Occurrences)
... chains they fastened in the two ouches, and put them on the shoulderpieces of the ...
they made two rings of gold, and put them on the two shoulder-pieces of the ...
/p/pieces.htm - 40k

Ephod (45 Occurrences)
... and fine twined linen," held together by two shoulder-pieces and a skillfully woven
band which served as a girdle for the ephod. On the shoulderpieces were two ...
/e/ephod.htm - 27k

Ouches (8 Occurrences)
... Exodus 28:25 And the other two ends of the two wreathed chains thou shalt fasten
in the two ouches, and put them on the shoulderpieces of the ephod before it. ...
/o/ouches.htm - 10k

Garland (6 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:30 And every base had four wheels of brass, and axles of brass; and on
its four corners were shoulder-pieces: under the laver were shoulder-pieces...
/g/garland.htm - 9k

Wreathen (8 Occurrences)
... Exodus 28:25 And the other two ends of the two wreathen chains thou shalt put on
the two settings, and put them on the shoulder-pieces of the ephod in the ...
/w/wreathen.htm - 8k

Wreathed (9 Occurrences)
... Exodus 28:25 And the other two ends of the two wreathed chains thou shalt fasten
in the two ouches, and put them on the shoulderpieces of the ephod before it. ...
/w/wreathed.htm - 9k

Edges (28 Occurrences)
... Exodus 28:7 It shall have the two shoulderpieces thereof joined at the two edges
thereof; and so it shall be joined together. (KJV WBS RSV). ...
/e/edges.htm - 14k

What was the significance of the ephod? | GotQuestions.org

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