Topical Encyclopedia The ephod is a significant garment in the Old Testament, primarily associated with the high priest of Israel. It serves as a symbol of the priestly office and is intricately linked to the worship and sacrificial system established by God for His chosen people. The ephod is mentioned in various passages throughout the Scriptures, highlighting its importance and sacred function.Description and Construction The ephod is first described in detail in the Book of Exodus, where God provides Moses with specific instructions for its construction. It is to be made of "gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, the work of a skilled craftsman" (Exodus 28:6). The ephod consists of two pieces, a front and a back, joined together at the shoulders by two onyx stones set in gold filigree. Each stone is engraved with the names of six tribes of Israel, serving as a memorial before the Lord (Exodus 28:9-12). The ephod is also equipped with a skillfully woven waistband, which secures it around the priest's body. Attached to the ephod is the breastpiece of judgment, containing the Urim and Thummim, which are used for divine decision-making (Exodus 28:15-30). Function and Significance The ephod is worn by the high priest during sacred ceremonies and when entering the Holy of Holies. It signifies the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people of Israel. The ephod, with its precious stones and intricate design, represents the beauty and holiness required of those who serve in the presence of the Almighty. In addition to its ceremonial use, the ephod is sometimes associated with seeking God's guidance. For instance, when David inquired of the Lord, he instructed Abiathar the priest to bring the ephod (1 Samuel 23:9-12). This indicates that the ephod, along with the Urim and Thummim, played a role in discerning God's will. Historical Context and Usage The ephod is not only limited to the high priest but is also mentioned in other contexts. Gideon, after his victory over the Midianites, made an ephod from the spoils of war, which unfortunately became a snare to him and the people of Israel (Judges 8:27). This incident underscores the potential misuse of sacred objects when they are removed from their intended purpose. In the time of Samuel, the young prophet is described as ministering before the Lord, wearing a linen ephod (1 Samuel 2:18). This suggests that the ephod, in a simpler form, may have been worn by other priests or those serving in the tabernacle. Theological Implications The ephod, as part of the high priest's attire, points to the greater reality of Christ's priesthood. In the New Testament, Jesus is described as our High Priest, who mediates a new covenant between God and humanity (Hebrews 4:14-16). The ephod, with its representation of the twelve tribes, foreshadows the inclusivity of Christ's redemptive work, encompassing all who believe. In summary, the ephod is a profound emblem of the priestly office, rich in symbolism and function. It highlights the holiness required of those who serve God and the necessity of divine mediation, ultimately fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hosea 3:4For the children of Israel shall abide many days without a king, and without a prince, and without a sacrifice, and without an image, and without an ephod, and without teraphim: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Child Prophet The King --Continued. The Saints' Privilege and Profit; CHAPTER III. The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers. Resources What was the significance of the ephod? | GotQuestions.orgDid David dance naked (2 Samuel 6:14)? | GotQuestions.org What were the Urim and Thummim? | GotQuestions.org Ephod: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest used As an Oracle Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: An Inferior, Was Worn by the Ordinary Priests Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: Breastplate Attached To Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: Described Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: It Was Called Coat Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: The Making of Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: Worn by Aaron Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: Worn by David Ephod: A Sacred Vestment Worn by the High Priest: Worn by Samuel The Ephod for the High Priest used by Idolatrous Priests The Ephod for the High Priest: Breastplate of Judgment Inseparably United To The Ephod for the High Priest: Commanded to be Made The Ephod for the High Priest: Fastened on With Its own Girdle The Ephod for the High Priest: had a Girdle of Curious Work The Ephod for the High Priest: Israel Deprived of, for Sin The Ephod for the High Priest: Made of Gold, Blue, Purple, Scarlet The Ephod for the High Priest: Made of offerings of the People The Ephod for the High Priest: Shoulders of, Joined by Onyx Stones Engraved With Names of The Ephod for the High Priest: Worn or Held by Him when Consulted The Ephod for the High Priest: Worn Over the Robe The Ephod: The Emblem of the Priestly office The Ephod: Worn by Generally of Linen The Ephod: Worn by Ordinary Priests The Ephod: Worn by Persons Engaged in the Service of God The Ephod: Worn by The High Priest Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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