Topical Encyclopedia The Urim and Thummim are ancient sacred objects associated with the high priest's breastplate in the Old Testament, used as a means of divine communication and decision-making. These objects are mentioned in several passages, primarily in the context of seeking God's guidance for the Israelites.Biblical References and Description The Urim and Thummim are first introduced in the Book of Exodus as part of the priestly garments. In Exodus 28:30 , God instructs Moses: "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 bear the means of making decisions for the Israelites over his heart before the LORD." The exact nature and appearance of the Urim and Thummim are not detailed in the Scriptures, leading to various interpretations and theories. They are often thought to be stones or objects placed within the breastpiece of the high priest, used to discern God's will in specific situations. Function and Use The primary function of the Urim and Thummim was to provide divine guidance in matters of national importance, particularly when decisions were beyond human wisdom. They were a means by which the high priest could inquire of the Lord on behalf of the people. This is evident in passages such as Numbers 27:21 , where God commands Moses regarding Joshua: "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." The Urim and Thummim were used during times of uncertainty, war, and leadership decisions. For instance, in 1 Samuel 28:6 , when Saul seeks guidance, it is noted: "He inquired of the LORD, but the LORD did not answer him by dreams or Urim or prophets." Theological Significance The Urim and Thummim symbolize the direct involvement of God in the governance and spiritual life of Israel. They underscore the belief that God is not distant but actively guides His people through appointed means. The use of the Urim and Thummim reflects the theocratic nature of Israel, where divine will was sought in critical decisions. Theologically, the Urim and Thummim highlight the importance of seeking God's guidance and the role of the priesthood as mediators between God and the people. They serve as a reminder of the need for divine wisdom in leadership and decision-making. Historical and Cultural Context The Urim and Thummim are unique to the Israelite religious system and are not found in the same form in other ancient Near Eastern cultures. Their use diminished after the establishment of the monarchy and the prophetic office, as prophets became the primary means of divine communication. In post-exilic times, references to the Urim and Thummim become scarce, suggesting their use may have ceased or become symbolic. Ezra 2:63 and Nehemiah 7:65 mention the Urim and Thummim in the context of determining priestly lineage, indicating their continued symbolic importance. Conclusion The Urim and Thummim remain a mysterious yet significant aspect of biblical history, representing God's provision for guidance and decision-making. They reflect the deep reliance on divine direction that characterized the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Torrey's Topical Textbook Numbers 27:21And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall ask counsel for him after the judgment of Urim before the LORD: at his word shall they go out, and at his word they shall come in, both he, and all the children of Israel with him, even all the congregation. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Book 3 Footnotes Book 5 Footnotes The Duty of Searching the Scriptures His Name --The Counsellor Papal Infallibility Explained, and Tested by Tradition and ... Differences in Judgment About Water Baptism, no Bar to Communion ... Resources What were the Urim and Thummim? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the significance of the ephod? | GotQuestions.org What was the significance of the priestly garments? | GotQuestions.org Urim: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Urim and Thummim in the Breastplate Urim and Thummim were Wanting in the Second Temple Urim and Thummim: Consulting God By Urim and Thummim: Eleazar to Ask Counsel for Joshua, After the Judgment of Urim and Thummim: God to be Consulted By Urim and Thummim: Illustrative of the Light and Perfection of Christ, the True Urim and Thummim: Israelites Consult Urim and Thummim: Only Priests Could Interpret Urim and Thummim: Placed in the Breastplate of the High Priest Urim and Thummim: Sometimes No Answer By, in Consequence of the Sin of Those Urim and Thummim: Withheld the Answer from King Saul Related Terms |
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