Exodus 25:7

KJV

Onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod, and in the breastplate.

KJV (with Strong's)

Onyx {H7718} stones {H68}, and stones {H68} to be set {H4394} in the ephod {H646}, and in the breastplate {H2833}.

Complete Jewish Bible

onyx stones and other stones to be set, for the ritual vest and breastplate.

Berean Standard Bible

and onyx stones and gemstones to be mounted on the ephod and breastpiece.

American Standard Version

onyx stones, and stones to be set, for the ephod, and for the breastplate.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 25:7 is a concise yet profoundly significant verse, detailing the specific inclusion of "onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod, and in the breastplate" as part of the materials for the Tabernacle's construction and, more specifically, the sacred vestments of the High Priest. This divine instruction underscores God's meticulous design for His dwelling place and the priestly attire, which would serve as a powerful visual and symbolic representation of His covenant relationship with Israel and the High Priest's intercessory role on their behalf, bearing the identity of the twelve tribes continually before the Lord.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 25:7 is nestled within a larger section of divine directives concerning the construction of the Tabernacle, spanning from [Exodus 25](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle") through [Exodus 31](/exodus/31 "Exodus 31 - Bezalel and Oholiab, Craftsmen for the Tabernacle"). Following God's initial call for a "freewill offering" from the Israelites in [Exodus 25:2](/exodus/25-2 "Exodus 25:2 - The Freewill Offering for the Tabernacle"), the text meticulously lists the required materials: gold, silver, bronze, various colored yarns, fine linen, animal skins, oil, spices, and, notably, precious stones. These detailed instructions are not merely architectural blueprints but profound theological statements, emphasizing the holiness and sacredness of God's presence among His people. The specific mention of onyx stones and other gems here anticipates their detailed placement and symbolic significance on the High Priest's garments, as elaborated in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments and Their Adornments"), where their exact arrangement and purpose (bearing the names of the tribes) are revealed. This verse serves as a foundational command for the materials that will embody the High Priest's representative function.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, precious stones were highly valued, often associated with royalty, divinity, and power. They were used in temples, royal regalia, and as amulets, signifying status, wealth, and divine favor. For the nomadic Israelites, gathering such materials would have required significant contribution from their personal wealth, likely accumulated during their time in Egypt as "spoils" (cf. [Exodus 12:35-36](/exodus/12-35-36 "Exodus 12:35-36 - Spoiling the Egyptians")). The divine command for these specific stones for the priestly garments was unique, elevating their use beyond mere aesthetics to a sacred, theological purpose. The ephod and breastplate, adorned with these gems, were not merely decorative but functional items for the High Priest, who served as the mediator between God and Israel. The practice of inscribing names on stones was also common in the ancient world, often for seals or monuments, giving the stones on the ephod and breastplate a profound representational meaning, signifying the tribes of Israel being continually borne before the Lord in the High Priest's intercessory ministry.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights **God's meticulousness and sovereignty** in commanding every detail of His worship and dwelling place, underscoring that His presence is holy and demands precision. Secondly, it foreshadows the theme of **representation and intercession**, as the stones on the High Priest's garments would bear the names of the twelve tribes, signifying his role in representing the entire nation before God. This theme is fully developed in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - The Priestly Garments"), where the High Priest is depicted as literally carrying Israel's identity into the divine presence. Thirdly, it speaks to the **value and preciousness of God's covenant people**, as they are symbolized by costly gems worn close to the High Priest's heart and on his shoulders. This reinforces the concept of Israel as God's "treasured possession" (cf. [Exodus 19:5](/exodus/19-5 "Exodus 19:5 - Israel, God's Treasured Possession")). Finally, the call for these materials as a "freewill offering" (cf. [Exodus 25:2](/exodus/25-2 "Exodus 25:2 - The Freewill Offering")) emphasizes the theme of **sacrificial giving and willing obedience** in response to God's commands.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Onyx (Hebrew, _shôham'_):** From an unused root probably meaning to blanch, this term refers to a gem, probably the beryl (from its pale green color). In the context of the Tabernacle, two onyx stones were specifically designated for the shoulder pieces of the ephod, each to be engraved with six of the names of the tribes of Israel (as detailed in [Exodus 28:9-12](/exodus/28-9-12 "Exodus 28:9-12 - Engraving the Names of Israel on the Onyx Stones")). This highlights the High Priest's role in bearing the burden and identity of the entire nation before God, symbolizing strength and responsibility.
* **Stones to be set (Hebrew, _milluʼ'_):** From the root _mālēʼ_ meaning "to fulfill," this term, used in the plural, denotes a "fulfilling" or, literally, a "setting" of gems. It refers to the specific act of embedding or mounting the precious stones into the fabric or framework of the priestly garments. This word emphasizes the careful, precise, and permanent placement of the gems, underscoring their integral role in the sacred design and their symbolic function of representing the tribes of Israel as a fixed and enduring presence before the Lord.
* **Ephod (Hebrew, _ʼêphôwd'_):** Probably of foreign derivation, this term refers to a girdle; specifically, the ephod or high priest's shoulder-piece. It was a distinctive priestly garment worn by the High Priest, described as a richly embroidered, sleeveless tunic or apron. Crafted from gold, blue, purple, and scarlet material, and fine twined linen, the ephod was more than a piece of clothing; it was a sacred vestment that served as the primary support for the breastplate and its stones, symbolizing the High Priest's office and his unique access to God's presence. Its elaborate design underscored the holiness and gravity of the High Priest's mediatorial role.
* **Breastplate (Hebrew, _chôshen'_):** From an unused root probably meaning to contain or sparkle, this term refers to a pocket (as holding the Urim and Thummim), or rich (as containing gems), used only of the gorget of the highpriest; breastplate. Also known as the "breastplate of judgment" (_choshen mishpat_), this was a square, folded pouch worn over the ephod, directly over the High Priest's heart. It was adorned with twelve different precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, arranged in four rows of three. This garment was central to the High Priest's intercessory function, visually representing the entire nation being presented before God's judgment and mercy. It also contained the Urim and Thummim, objects used for discerning God's will.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Onyx stones,"**: This initial phrase specifies one particular type of precious stone required for the Tabernacle's sacred items. The onyx stones were not merely decorative but held a profound symbolic function, specifically designated for the shoulder pieces of the High Priest's ephod, where they would bear the engraved names of the twelve tribes of Israel. This detail immediately points to the High Priest's representative role, carrying the identity of God's people on his shoulders, signifying his strength and responsibility in bearing their burdens before God.
* **"and stones to be set in the ephod,"**: This clause indicates that beyond the specific onyx stones, other gems were also required for the ephod itself. While the primary function of the ephod was to serve as the foundational garment for the breastplate, its own adornment with stones would contribute to its overall splendor and sacredness, emphasizing the divine nature of the High Priest's attire and office. This detail underscores the comprehensive beauty and holiness required for garments that would facilitate access to God's presence.
* **"and in the breastplate."**: This final phrase highlights the most significant use of precious stones in the priestly garments. The breastplate, worn over the High Priest's heart, was to be set with twelve distinct stones, each representing one of the tribes of Israel. This detail is crucial for understanding the High Priest's intercessory ministry, as he literally bore the names of God's people into the most holy presence, symbolizing God's constant remembrance, affection, and care for His covenant nation, and presenting their needs and identity before Him.

#### Literary Devices
The verse, though brief, employs several significant literary devices that enrich its meaning. **Symbolism** is paramount, as the precious stones themselves symbolize value, purity, and the divine glory. Their inclusion in the priestly garments underscores the immense worth God places on His people and the sacredness of the High Priest's office. The act of setting these stones "in the ephod, and in the breastplate" is a form of **Metonymy**, where the stones stand for the tribes of Israel whose names would be engraved upon them. Thus, the High Priest, by wearing these stones, symbolically bears the entire nation on his shoulders (representing strength and responsibility) and over his heart (representing affection, intercession, and judgment). The entire passage, including this verse, functions as a **Divine Command** or **Instruction**, highlighting God's absolute sovereignty and meticulous design for worship and relationship with His people, leaving no detail to human discretion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 25:7, in its precise instruction for the inclusion of precious stones in the priestly garments, profoundly connects to several core theological themes. It underscores God's meticulous attention to detail in matters of worship, emphasizing that His dwelling place and the means of approaching Him must reflect His holiness and glory. The stones, particularly those on the breastplate, symbolize the immense value God places on His covenant people, Israel, signifying that they are His treasured possession. The High Priest, bearing the names of the tribes on his shoulders and over his heart, served as a living representation of God's constant remembrance, support, and intercession for His people. This act of bearing the names before the Lord foreshadows the ultimate intercessory work of Christ, who continually presents His people before the Father, not merely as names, but as living members of His body.

* [Exodus 28:9-12](/exodus/28-9-12 "Exodus 28:9-12 - Engraving the Names of Israel on the Onyx Stones")
* [Exodus 28:15-21](/exodus/28-15-21 "Exodus 28:15-21 - The Breastplate of Judgment and its Stones")
* [Hebrews 4:14-16](/hebrews/4-14-16 "Hebrews 4:14-16 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous detail in Exodus 25:7, specifying precious stones for the High Priest's garments, invites us to reflect on the nature of God's relationship with His people and our response to His divine call. Just as the High Priest bore the names of Israel on his shoulders and heart, symbolizing God's unwavering commitment and intercession, so too are we, as believers, called to bear one another in prayer and support. This verse also reminds us that nothing is too precious to offer in service to God. The Israelites were commanded to give their most valuable possessions, reflecting a heart of willing generosity for the establishment of God's presence among them. For us today, this translates into offering our best talents, resources, and time, not out of obligation, but out of a deep reverence for God's worth and a joyful participation in His ongoing work in the world. It is a call to recognize that our lives, like these precious stones, can be set apart and used by God for His glory, reflecting His beauty and purpose. We are called to embody the values of God's kingdom, shining brightly as His representatives in a world that desperately needs to see His glory reflected in His people.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I "bear" others before the Lord in prayer and support, reflecting the High Priest's representative and intercessory role?**
* **What "precious stones"—my most valuable resources, time, or talents—am I willing to offer as a freewill offering for God's work today, recognizing His meticulous design for my life?**
* **How does the meticulousness of God's instructions for the Tabernacle and priestly garments inform my understanding of His character and my approach to worship and service?**

### FAQ
**Why were these specific precious stones chosen for the ephod and breastplate?**

Answer: The choice of precious stones for the ephod and breastplate was not arbitrary but divinely ordained, serving multiple symbolic and functional purposes. Firstly, their inherent value and beauty reflected the glory and majesty of God, emphasizing the sacredness of the Tabernacle and the High Priest's office. Secondly, and most crucially, the stones on the ephod (two onyx stones) and the breastplate (twelve different gems) were to be engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel (as detailed in [Exodus 28:9-12](/exodus/28-9-12 "Exodus 28:9-12 - Engraving the Names on the Onyx Stones") and [Exodus 28:17-21](/exodus/28-17-21 "Exodus 28:17-21 - The Twelve Stones of the Breastplate")). This ensured that the High Priest, in his mediatorial role, literally bore the identity of the entire nation before the Lord, symbolizing God's constant remembrance, care, and intercession for His people. Each stone on the breastplate was unique, representing the distinct identity of each tribe while collectively forming a unified representation of Israel, presented continually before God's presence.

**What was the primary purpose of the ephod and breastplate in the High Priest's attire?**

Answer: The ephod and breastplate were central to the High Priest's sacred vestments, serving critical roles in his ministry. The ephod, a richly embroidered garment, was the foundational piece upon which the breastplate was secured. Its primary purpose was to signify the High Priest's consecrated office and his unique access to God's presence on behalf of Israel, symbolizing his authority and divine appointment. The breastplate, known as the "breastplate of judgment" ([Exodus 28:15](/exodus/28-15 "Exodus 28:15 - The Breastplate of Judgment")), was worn over the High Priest's heart and contained the twelve engraved stones representing the tribes. This symbolized the High Priest's intercessory role, bearing the burdens and identity of God's people before the Lord, and presenting them for divine judgment and mercy. Furthermore, the breastplate also housed the Urim and Thummim ([Exodus 28:30](/exodus/28-30 "Exodus 28:30 - The Urim and Thummim")), mysterious objects used by the High Priest to discern God's will and deliver divine judgments, thus linking the garments directly to divine revelation and guidance for the nation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 25:7, with its precise instructions for the precious stones on the High Priest's ephod and breastplate, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The High Priest of the Old Covenant, bearing the names of Israel on his shoulders and heart, served as a type, foreshadowing the perfect and eternal High Priest, Jesus. Unlike the earthly priest who offered sacrifices repeatedly and bore a limited representation, Christ, through His singular, perfect sacrifice on the cross, has entered the true heavenly sanctuary, not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood, securing an eternal redemption for us (cf. [Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11-12 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ, Our High Priest")). He continually bears His people, not merely as names engraved on stones, but as living members of His body, on His heart and before the Father's throne. His intercession for us is not a temporary act but an eternal reality, as He "always lives to intercede for them" ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Perpetual Intercession")). The preciousness of the stones in Exodus 25:7 points to the immeasurable value God places on His people, a value supremely demonstrated in Christ's willingness to give His life as the ultimate sacrifice, making us His treasured possession (cf. [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen People")). Thus, the ancient imagery of the High Priest's adorned garments beautifully anticipates the perfect, compassionate, and eternally effective High Priesthood of our Lord Jesus Christ, who truly carries us in His heart before God, ensuring our access to His grace and His constant remembrance of us.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 28:4

And these [are] the garments which they shall make; a breastplate, and an ephod, and a robe, and a broidered coat, a mitre, and a girdle: and they shall make holy garments for Aaron thy brother, and his sons, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.

Exodus 28:6

¶ And they shall make the ephod [of] gold, [of] blue, and [of] purple, [of] scarlet, and fine twined linen, with cunning work.

Exodus 28:30

And thou shalt put in the breastplate of judgment the Urim and the Thummim; and they shall be upon Aaron's heart, when he goeth in before the LORD: and Aaron shall bear the judgment of the children of Israel upon his heart before the LORD continually.