Exodus 28:22

KJV

And thou shalt make upon the breastplate chains at the ends [of] wreathen work [of] pure gold.

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou shalt make {H6213} upon the breastplate {H2833} chains {H8331} at the ends {H1383} of wreathen {H5688} work {H4639} of pure {H2889} gold {H2091}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"On the breastplate, make two pure gold chains twisted like cords.

Berean Standard Bible

For the breastpiece, make braided chains like cords of pure gold.

American Standard Version

And thou shalt make upon the breastplate chains like cords, of wreathen work of pure gold.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 28:22 provides precise divine instructions for the construction of the High Priest's breastplate, specifically detailing the "wreathen work" chains of "pure gold" that were to be attached to its ends. These chains were not merely decorative but functionally critical, designed to secure the breastplate, which bore the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, firmly to the ephod. This meticulous attention to detail underscores the sanctity of the priestly office and the divine demand for perfection in all aspects of worship and service dedicated to the Lord.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a lengthy section of Exodus (chapters 25-31) where God meticulously reveals the blueprints for the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, alongside the holy garments for the priests. Following the general command to make "holy garments for Aaron your brother, for glory and for beauty" in [Exodus 28:2](/exodus/28-2 "Exodus 28:2 - Holy Garments for Aaron"), the text proceeds to describe each component in detail. Verses [Exodus 28:6-14](/exodus/28-6 "Exodus 28:6-14 - The Ephod") describe the ephod, a complex outer garment. Immediately preceding our verse, [Exodus 28:15-21](/exodus/28-15 "Exodus 28:15-21 - The Breastplate of Judgment") outlines the elaborate "breastplate of judgment" (also called the breastplate of decision), specifying its dimensions, materials, and the twelve precious stones engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel. Exodus 28:22 then details the method of attaching this vital breastplate to the ephod, ensuring it would not become separated during the High Priest's ministry. The subsequent verses continue to describe other elements of the breastplate's attachment and the remaining priestly garments.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern cultures, priestly attire often conveyed status, authority, and connection to the divine. However, Israel's priestly garments, as described in Exodus, were unique in their divinely prescribed detail and symbolic meaning, distinguishing them from pagan practices. The Tabernacle itself was a portable sanctuary, signifying God's presence among His people during their wilderness wanderings, and the High Priest served as the primary mediator between God and Israel. The breastplate, specifically, was not merely an adornment but a "breastplate of judgment" ([Exodus 28:15](/exodus/28-15 "Exodus 28:15 - The Breastplate of Judgment")), indicating its role in divine revelation and decision-making, likely involving the Urim and Thummim (mentioned in [Exodus 28:30](/exodus/28-30 "Exodus 28:30 - The Urim and Thummim")). The chains described in this verse were crucial for securing this weighty and symbolically rich garment, ensuring that the High Priest, bearing the tribes of Israel, remained perpetually "before the Lord" ([Exodus 28:29](/exodus/28-29 "Exodus 28:29 - Bearing the Names of Israel")). The use of "pure gold" reflects the highest value and sanctity, a common motif in Tabernacle construction, emphasizing the holiness required for approaching God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Chains (Hebrew, _sharshĕrot'_):** This word refers to linked or twisted cords, often made of metal. In this context, it denotes the specific means of attachment for the breastplate. The plural form indicates multiple chains, implying a secure and balanced fastening. Their purpose was functional, yet their material and craftsmanship elevated them beyond mere utility, signifying the preciousness and security of the High Priest's representation of Israel before God.
* **Wreathen work (Hebrew, _migbalot'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to twist" or "to braid," this term describes a specific type of intricate craftsmanship involving the intertwining of gold threads or wires. It suggests a strong, flexible, and aesthetically pleasing cordage, rather than a simple link chain. This detail highlights the divine demand for not just functionality, but also beauty, artistry, and durability in everything dedicated to sacred service.
* **Pure gold (Hebrew, _zahav tahor'_):** This phrase consistently appears throughout the Tabernacle instructions (e.g., [Exodus 25:11](/exodus/25-11 "Exodus 25:11 - Ark of the Covenant's Gold Overlay")). "Pure" (תָּהוֹר, _tahor_) signifies unalloyed, unblemished, and consecrated material. Its use here emphasizes the sanctity, preciousness, and enduring value of the priestly garments. Gold, being incorruptible, symbolizes divine perfection, glory, and the eternal nature of God's covenant and presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou shalt make upon the breastplate chains at the ends":** This clause specifies the location and purpose of the chains. They are to be attached "upon the breastplate," indicating they are an integral part of its design, not merely an afterthought. The phrase "at the ends" suggests they were to be affixed to the corners or edges, likely the upper corners, to connect to the ephod's shoulder pieces, ensuring the breastplate hung securely and centrally over the High Priest's heart.
* **"[of] wreathen work [of] pure gold":** This describes the precise material and method of construction for these chains. They are not to be simple, crude chains but meticulously crafted "wreathen work," implying a braided or twisted design that would be both strong and beautiful. The material, "pure gold," underscores the divine standard of excellence, holiness, and enduring value required for all elements of the sacred priestly garments.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 28:22 employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and significance. The most prominent is **Symbolism**, where the materials and craftsmanship are imbued with deeper theological meaning. "Pure gold" consistently symbolizes divinity, purity, and enduring value, reflecting the holiness of God and the sacredness of the High Priest's office. The "wreathen work" itself symbolizes intricate divine design and the strength and beauty inherent in God's perfect plans. The chains, while functional, also serve as a symbol of **Connection** and **Security**, ensuring the breastplate (and thus the representation of Israel) is firmly bound to the ephod, which itself represents the High Priest's authority and service. The passage also demonstrates **Divine Instruction**, a recurring literary motif throughout Exodus, emphasizing God's absolute sovereignty and His meticulous attention to every detail of worship, leaving no room for human improvisation in matters of sacred service.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 28:22, though a minute detail in the grand scheme of the Tabernacle, profoundly illustrates several key theological themes. It speaks to God's demand for holiness and perfection in all that pertains to His worship. The meticulous instructions for "pure gold" and "wreathen work" highlight that God is not content with mere functionality but requires excellence, beauty, and the highest quality in service to Him. This divine precision underscores the sanctity of the High Priest's role as mediator, bearing the names of Israel before the Lord, and foreshadows the perfect and complete work of Christ. The secure attachment of the breastplate signifies the unbreakable bond between God and His people, as represented by the High Priest.

* [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - Dwelling Among Them"): God's desire to dwell among His people necessitates holiness in all aspects of His sanctuary and service.
* [Hebrews 9:24](/hebrews/9-24 "Hebrews 9:24 - Christ's Heavenly Ministry"): Christ entered the true sanctuary, heaven itself, to appear in the presence of God for us, fulfilling the earthly High Priest's role.
* [1 Peter 1:15-16](/1_peter/1-15 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be Holy"): The call for holiness in God's people mirrors the holiness demanded in the priestly garments, reflecting God's own character.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The intricate details of Exodus 28:22, focusing on the chains of pure, wreathen gold for the breastplate, might seem overly specific, yet they offer profound insights for contemporary believers. They remind us that God is a God of order, beauty, and perfection, who values excellence and integrity in all things, especially in our service to Him. Just as the High Priest's garments were crafted with the utmost care and from the finest materials, so too should our spiritual lives and acts of worship be characterized by intentionality, purity, and dedication. This passage encourages us to consider the "quality" of our devotion, not just its quantity. It challenges us to reflect on whether we offer God our "pure gold"—our best, unalloyed by compromise or half-heartedness—in our prayers, our service, our relationships, and our daily walk. The secure fastening of the breastplate also speaks to the importance of being firmly connected to Christ, our High Priest, ensuring that our identity as His people is securely borne before the Father.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or service do I tend to offer God less than "pure gold" or "wreathen work"?**
* **How does the divine demand for meticulous detail in the Tabernacle instructions inform my understanding of God's character and His expectations for our worship today?**
* **Considering the breastplate's secure attachment, how can I ensure my spiritual connection to Christ remains firm and unwavering in the face of life's challenges?**

### FAQ

**Why were chains specifically mentioned for the breastplate?**
Answer: The chains were essential for securing the breastplate, which was a heavy and symbolically crucial garment, to the ephod. This ensured that the breastplate, bearing the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, remained securely positioned over the High Priest's heart as he ministered before the Lord. The specific mention of "chains at the ends" (Exodus 28:22) indicates a precise method of attachment, likely connecting to rings on the breastplate and then to the shoulder pieces of the ephod, as further detailed in [Exodus 28:23-28](/exodus/28-23 "Exodus 28:23-28 - Attaching the Breastplate"). This meticulous detail prevented the breastplate from shifting or falling, maintaining its symbolic integrity and the High Priest's ability to carry the people's representation before God.

**What is the significance of "wreathen work" and "pure gold" in this context?**
Answer: "Wreathen work" (Hebrew: *migbalot*) refers to an intricate, twisted, or braided design, indicating a high level of craftsmanship and durability. It signifies that the chains were not simple links but beautifully and strongly interwoven. "Pure gold" (Hebrew: *zahav tahor*) emphasizes the unalloyed, highest quality of the material. Both terms underscore the divine demand for excellence, sanctity, and enduring value in everything dedicated to God's service. Gold consistently symbolizes divinity, purity, glory, and incorruptibility throughout the Tabernacle's construction (e.g., [Exodus 25:11](/exodus/25-11 "Exodus 25:11 - Gold for the Ark")). Their use here highlights the sacredness of the High Priest's office and the holy nature of his duties, reflecting God's own perfect character.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 28:22, with its focus on the pure gold, wreathen chains securing the breastplate, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The High Priest's breastplate, bearing the names of Israel, symbolized his role in carrying the people before God. The secure attachment of these chains points to the unwavering and eternal connection between Christ and His redeemed people. As our great High Priest, Jesus does not merely carry our names on a breastplate; He bears us in His very heart, having perfectly fulfilled the Law and offered Himself as the ultimate, pure sacrifice, "not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood" ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Sacrifice")). The "pure gold" of the chains speaks to Christ's divine nature and His absolute perfection, which alone qualifies Him to intercede for us. His high priestly ministry is not temporary or imperfect like Aaron's; it is eternal and complete, for "He always lives to make intercession for them" ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Priesthood")). Just as the wreathen chains ensured the breastplate's secure position, Christ's perfect work ensures our eternal security and our perpetual standing before God, for we are "accepted in the Beloved" ([Ephesians 1:6](/ephesians/1-6 "Ephesians 1:6 - Accepted in the Beloved")). He is the true and living way, the perfect mediator who perfectly connects us to the Father, forever bearing us in His divine presence.

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.