Exodus 28:12

And thou shalt put the two stones upon the shoulders of the ephod [for] stones of memorial unto the children of Israel: and Aaron shall bear their names before the LORD upon his two shoulders for a memorial.

And thou shalt put {H7760} the two {H8147} stones {H68} upon the shoulders {H3802} of the ephod {H646} for stones {H68} of memorial {H2146} unto the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478}: and Aaron {H175} shall bear {H5375} their names {H8034} before {H6440} the LORD {H3068} upon his two {H8147} shoulders {H3802} for a memorial {H2146}.

and put the two stones on the shoulder-pieces of the vest as stones calling to mind the sons of Isra'el. Aharon is to carry their names before ADONAI on his two shoulders as a reminder.

Fasten both stones on 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.

And thou shalt put the two stones upon the shoulder-pieces of the ephod, to be stones of memorial for the children of Israel: and Aaron shall bear their names before Jehovah upon his two shoulders for a memorial.

Commentary

Exodus 28:12 details a significant element of the High Priest's sacred attire: the placement of two onyx stones on the shoulders of the ephod. These stones, engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, were to serve as a constant "memorial" before the LORD, symbolizing Aaron's role in bearing the people before God.

Context of the High Priest's Garments

This verse is part of God's meticulous instructions to Moses regarding the construction of the tabernacle and the specific garments for Aaron, the first High Priest, and his descendants. The ephod was a highly distinctive priestly vestment, a type of apron worn over a tunic. Just prior to this verse, Exodus 28:9-10 specifies that the names of the twelve sons of Israel (representing the twelve tribes) were to be skillfully engraved upon these two onyx stones, six names on each. Their placement on the shoulders, a part of the body associated with strength and bearing burdens, powerfully symbolized Aaron's responsibility to carry the identity and needs of the entire nation into the presence of God.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Representation and Intercession: The primary theme is Aaron's role as the divinely appointed representative and intercessor for the children of Israel. By literally bearing their names on his shoulders, he continually presented them before the LORD, signifying his mediation on their behalf in all priestly duties.
  • Divine Remembrance: The phrase "stones of memorial" (Hebrew: zikkaron) underscores God's unwavering remembrance of His covenant people. It was a tangible assurance to Israel that they were always in God's thoughts and sight, never forgotten as they were brought into His holy presence through their High Priest.
  • Covenant Relationship: The intricate details of these garments and their symbolic elements reinforce the deep and abiding covenant relationship between God and Israel. It was a visible reminder of God's commitment to His chosen nation and their unique identity before Him.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "memorial" is zikkaron (ื–ึดื›ึธึผืจึนืŸ). This word denotes something that serves as a reminder, a record, or an object meant to bring something to mind. In this context, it signifies that the stones were a perpetual reminder to God of the tribes of Israel. It doesn't imply God might forget, but rather emphasizes His active and continuous attention, care, and covenant faithfulness towards His people.

Practical Application and Reflection

Exodus 28:12 offers profound theological insight and comfort for believers today. The role of Aaron, bearing the names of Israel, foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ. He perfectly fulfills this priestly function, bearing usโ€”His peopleโ€”before God the Father. Christ continually intercedes for us, carrying our burdens and presenting us in His own righteousness before the throne of grace (Hebrews 7:25). This verse reminds us that we are eternally on God's heart and mind, represented by the One who has entered the heavenly sanctuary on our behalf, assuring us of His constant love, care, and advocacy.

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Cross-References

  • Exodus 28:29

    And Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the breastplate of judgment upon his heart, when he goeth in unto the holy [place], for a memorial before the LORD continually.

  • Joshua 4:7

    Then ye shall answer them, That the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD; when it passed over Jordan, the waters of Jordan were cut off: and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever.

  • Exodus 39:6

    And they wrought onyx stones inclosed in ouches of gold, graven, as signets are graven, with the names of the children of Israel.

  • Exodus 39:7

    And he put them on the shoulders of the ephod, [that they should be] stones for a memorial to the children of Israel; as the LORD commanded Moses.

  • Numbers 16:40

    [To be] a memorial unto the children of Israel, that no stranger, which [is] not of the seed of Aaron, come near to offer incense before the LORD; that he be not as Korah, and as his company: as the LORD said to him by the hand of Moses.

  • Leviticus 24:7

    And thou shalt put pure frankincense upon [each] row, that it may be on the bread for a memorial, [even] an offering made by fire unto the LORD.

  • Numbers 31:54

    And Moses and Eleazar the priest took the gold of the captains of thousands and of hundreds, and brought it into the tabernacle of the congregation, [for] a memorial for the children of Israel before the LORD.