The Urim and Thummim are ancient sacred objects associated with the high priest's breastplate in the Old Testament, used for divination or seeking God's guidance. These objects are mentioned in several passages, primarily in the context of the priestly garments and the decision-making process for the Israelites.

Biblical References

The first mention of the Urim and Thummim is found in Exodus 28:30, where God instructs Moses regarding the garments of the high priest: "Place the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece of judgment, so that they will also be over Aaron’s heart whenever he enters the presence of the LORD. Thus Aaron will always carry the judgment of the Israelites over his heart before the LORD." . This passage highlights the significance of the Urim and Thummim as instruments of divine judgment and guidance.

In Leviticus 8:8, the consecration of Aaron as high priest includes the placement of the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece: "Then he put the breastpiece on him and placed the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece." . This act signifies the readiness of the high priest to seek God's will on behalf of the people.

The Urim and Thummim are also mentioned in Numbers 27:21, where God instructs Moses about Joshua's leadership: "He shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who will obtain decisions for him by the judgment of the Urim before the LORD. At his command, he and the entire congregation of the Israelites will go out and come in." . This indicates the role of the Urim in providing divine direction for the community.

Function and Significance

The exact nature and appearance of the Urim and Thummim are not detailed in the biblical text, leading to various interpretations and theories. Traditionally, they are thought to be stones or objects used to discern God's will, possibly by casting lots or another form of divination. The terms "Urim" and "Thummim" are often translated as "lights" and "perfections," suggesting their role in illuminating God's perfect will.

The Urim and Thummim were integral to the high priest's role as an intermediary between God and the Israelites. They were used in situations requiring divine guidance, such as military decisions, leadership appointments, and resolving disputes. The presence of the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece of judgment underscores their function in rendering decisions that align with God's justice and righteousness.

Historical and Theological Context

The use of the Urim and Thummim reflects the theocratic nature of ancient Israel, where God was recognized as the ultimate authority. The high priest, as God's representative, utilized these sacred objects to ensure that the nation's actions were in accordance with divine will. This practice underscores the belief in God's active involvement in the affairs of His people and His desire to guide them in truth and righteousness.

Throughout the Old Testament, the Urim and Thummim symbolize the importance of seeking God's guidance and the reliance on His wisdom for decision-making. They serve as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God promises to lead and the people commit to follow His commands.

Later References and Interpretations

The Urim and Thummim are not mentioned in the New Testament, and their use appears to have diminished after the Babylonian exile. However, they remain a subject of interest and speculation among scholars and theologians. Some suggest that their function was replaced by the prophetic word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament era.

In Jewish tradition, the Urim and Thummim are sometimes associated with the lost elements of the Temple worship, symbolizing the longing for restored divine communication. In Christian thought, they are often seen as a foreshadowing of the perfect revelation of God's will through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

The Urim and Thummim continue to be a topic of study and reflection, representing the timeless quest for divine guidance and the assurance of God's presence in the lives of His people.Judges 1:1
Now after the death of Joshua it came to pass, that the children of Israel asked the LORD, saying, Who shall go up for us against the Canaanites first, to fight against them?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Judges 20:18,28
And the children of Israel arose, and went up to the house of God, and asked counsel of God, and said, Which of us shall go up first to the battle against the children of Benjamin? And the LORD said, Judah shall go up first.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 23:9-11
And David knew that Saul secretly practiced mischief against him; and he said to Abiathar the priest, Bring here the ephod.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 30:7,8
And David said to Abiathar the priest, Ahimelech's son, I pray you, bring me here the ephod. And Abiathar brought thither the ephod to David.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Book 5 Footnotes
... both here and frequently elsewhere, means no more than consulting God by Urim ... the
cherubims, when he had his breastplate, or Urim and Thummim, on before; or ...
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