Exodus 28:23

KJV

And thou shalt make upon the breastplate two rings of gold, and shalt put the two rings on the two ends of the breastplate.

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou shalt make {H6213} upon the breastplate {H2833} two {H8147} rings {H2885} of gold {H2091}, and shalt put {H5414} the two {H8147} rings {H2885} on the two {H8147} ends {H7098} of the breastplate {H2833}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Also for the breastplate, make two gold rings; and put the gold rings on the two ends of the breastplate.

Berean Standard Bible

You are also to make two gold rings and fasten them to the two corners of the breastpiece.

American Standard Version

And thou shalt make upon the breastplate two rings of gold, and shalt put the two rings on the two ends of the breastplate.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 28:23 provides a precise divine instruction for the construction of the High Priest's breastplate, detailing the creation and placement of two gold rings. These rings, though seemingly minor components, were critical for securely attaching the breastplate to the ephod, ensuring the High Priest's garments were perfectly aligned for his sacred mediatorial service before the Lord. This meticulous detail underscores God's demand for perfection, order, and the profound significance of every element in the worship of a holy God and the preparation of His appointed servant.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a comprehensive block of divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai concerning the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, as well as the garments for the Aaronic priesthood ([Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25-31 "Exodus 25-31 - Tabernacle and Priestly Garments")). Specifically, [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments") focuses entirely on the sacred vestments of the High Priest, beginning with a general command for "holy garments for glory and for beauty" ([Exodus 28:2](/exodus/28-2 "Exodus 28:2 - Purpose of Priestly Garments")). Prior to verse 23, the text describes the ephod ([Exodus 28:6-14](/exodus/28-6-14 "Exodus 28:6-14 - Description of the Ephod")) and then the breastplate of judgment, including its dimensions, the setting of the twelve precious stones representing the tribes of Israel ([Exodus 28:15-21](/exodus/28-15-21 "Exodus 28:15-21 - Description of the Breastplate")), and the gold chains that would connect it to the ephod ([Exodus 28:22](/exodus/28-22 "Exodus 28:22 - Gold Chains for the Breastplate")). Verse 23, therefore, provides the specific attachment points for these chains, followed by further instructions for securing the breastplate to the ephod ([Exodus 28:24-28](/exodus/28-24-28 "Exodus 28:24-28 - Securing the Breastplate")) and the symbolic significance of carrying the names of Israel "upon his heart" ([Exodus 28:29](/exodus/28-29 "Exodus 28:29 - Breastplate's Symbolism")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The instructions for the Tabernacle and priesthood were given to Israel shortly after their miraculous deliverance from Egypt and the establishment of the Mosaic Covenant at Mount Sinai. This period marked the transition from a nomadic slave people to a nation under God's direct governance, requiring a structured system of worship and a designated mediator. In the ancient Near East, elaborate priestly attire was common, often signifying the deity served and the priest's status. However, Israel's priestly garments were unique in their divine origin, specific materials (gold, fine linen, precious stones), and profound symbolic meaning, distinguishing them from pagan practices. The High Priest's role was paramount, serving as the sole individual permitted to enter the Most Holy Place once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), bearing the sins of the people. The precision in his garments, down to the gold rings, reflected the absolute holiness of the God he served and the gravity of his mediatorial duties, ensuring that every element of his appearance and function was divinely ordained and perfectly executed.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, though small, contributes significantly to several overarching themes within [Exodus](/exodus/1 "The Book of Exodus") and the Pentateuch. It highlights God's **holiness and transcendence**, demanding meticulous adherence to His divine blueprint for worship, as seen throughout the Tabernacle instructions in [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25-31 "Exodus 25-31 - Tabernacle and Priestly Garments"). The precise detailing of the High Priest's garments underscores the theme of **divine order and perfection**, emphasizing that God is a God of precision, not chaos ([1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God of Order")). Furthermore, the functionality of the rings in securing the breastplate, which bore the names of Israel, reinforces the theme of **representation and mediation**. The High Priest served as the divinely appointed mediator, bearing the people's names before God's presence ([Exodus 28:29](/exodus/28-29 "Exodus 28:29 - Breastplate's Symbolism")), a role that finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ. Finally, the use of **precious materials** like gold points to the value and sacredness of the covenant relationship and the glory of God's presence.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Make (Hebrew, _ʻâsâh'_):** This verb (H6213) is a primitive root meaning "to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application." In this context, it signifies a direct divine command for creation and construction, emphasizing that the rings were not optional or left to human discretion but were an integral part of God's prescribed design for the High Priest's sacred garments.
* **Rings (Hebrew, _ṭabbaʻath'_):** This noun (H2885) refers to a functional loop or fastener, derived from a root meaning "to sink into" (like a seal into wax). Here, it specifically denotes the circular components designed for secure attachment, highlighting their practical purpose in connecting the breastplate to the ephod, rather than being merely decorative.
* **Gold (Hebrew, _zâhâb'_):** This noun (H2091) comes from an unused root meaning "to shimmer," signifying its inherent value and lustrous quality. In biblical contexts, gold universally symbolizes purity, divinity, preciousness, and durability. Its consistent use in the Tabernacle and priestly garments underscores the sacredness of the High Priest's office and the enduring nature of the divine covenant, reflecting the glory and perfection required in God's presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou shalt make upon the breastplate two rings of gold":** This opening clause establishes the divine imperative ("thou shalt make"), highlighting that this seemingly small detail is part of God's direct instruction to Moses. The specification of "two rings" indicates a symmetrical and balanced design, crucial for the stability and proper positioning of the breastplate. The material "of gold" immediately elevates the significance of these components, underscoring the sacredness, purity, and enduring value of every element of the High Priest's attire, reflecting the glory and holiness of God.
* **"and shalt put the two rings on the two ends of the breastplate":** This second clause details the precise placement of these rings. "On the two ends" (H7098, _qâtsâh'_, meaning "extremities" or "corners") indicates their strategic position at the upper corners of the breastplate. This placement was not arbitrary but meticulously designed to facilitate the secure attachment of the breastplate to the ephod, ensuring it remained fixed "upon his heart" ([Exodus 28:29](/exodus/28-29 "Exodus 28:29 - Breastplate's Symbolism")) as the High Priest ministered before the Lord, bearing the names of the tribes of Israel. This detail emphasizes God's demand for order and precision in all aspects of sacred service.

#### Literary Devices
The passage, though technical in nature, employs several literary devices that enhance its meaning and underscore its theological significance. **Precision** and **Detailing** are paramount, as the entire chapter functions as an exhaustive divine blueprint. Every measurement, material, and placement is meticulously specified, demonstrating God's absolute demand for order and perfection in worship. This leaves no room for human improvisation, emphasizing the sanctity of approaching a holy God. The **Repetition** of "two rings" reinforces the specific instruction and its importance, ensuring clarity and emphasizing the symmetrical design. Furthermore, while the rings are functional, they participate in the broader **Symbolism** of the priestly garments. They represent the secure and divinely ordained connection between the High Priest (and thus Israel) and God, ensuring that the representation of the tribes was always "upon his heart" as he interceded. This seemingly minor detail thus contributes to the overarching themes of God's holiness, the High Priest's mediatorial role, and the integrity of Israel's worship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The meticulous instructions for the High Priest's garments, exemplified by the detail of the gold rings in Exodus 28:23, reveal profound theological truths about God's character and the nature of worship. God is a God of order, precision, and absolute holiness, who demands that all approaches to Him be conducted with utmost reverence and according to His prescribed ways. The security and interconnectedness of the breastplate to the ephod, facilitated by these rings, symbolize the unbreakable bond between God and His people, mediated through the High Priest. This divine attention to every minute detail underscores the gravity and sanctity of sacred service, highlighting that even the smallest components contribute to the integrity and effectiveness of God's design for redemption and communion. This principle extends beyond the Tabernacle, teaching us that true worship involves wholehearted obedience to God's revealed will, recognizing that even seemingly insignificant acts of faithfulness contribute to His glory.

* [Hebrews 8:5](/hebrews/8-5 "Hebrews 8:5 - Pattern of Heavenly Things")
* [1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God of Order")
* [Leviticus 10:3](/leviticus/10-3 "Leviticus 10:3 - God's Holiness and Those Who Draw Near")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed instructions for the High Priest's garments, down to the placement of two gold rings, serve as a powerful reminder that God values precision and intentionality in all aspects of our lives, especially our worship and service. While we no longer construct a physical Tabernacle or wear specific priestly vestments, the underlying principle remains: God cares about the "small" things, the unseen details of our obedience, devotion, and character. Just as the rings ensured the breastplate was securely fastened, our spiritual lives require careful attention to the foundational elements of faith—prayer, scripture, community, and integrity—to remain steadfast and effective in our walk with God. This passage challenges us to consider whether our service to God, in whatever sphere we operate, is marked by the same level of care and excellence that He demonstrated in His divine blueprints. It also reminds us of the interconnectedness within the body of Christ; like the various parts of the High Priest's garments, each believer plays a vital, interconnected role, contributing to the overall strength, beauty, and effectiveness of the whole, reflecting God's perfect design.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's demand for precision in the Tabernacle's construction inform our understanding of His character and His expectations for our worship today?**
* **In what ways can we, as believers, reflect God's value for order and detail in our personal walk and corporate service?**
* **How does the interconnectedness of the High Priest's garments, facilitated by components like these rings, speak to the unity and mutual reliance within the body of Christ today?**

### FAQ
**Why were these rings specifically made of gold?**

Answer: The use of gold for these rings, as for many other elements of the Tabernacle and priestly garments, was highly significant. Gold is consistently associated with purity, divinity, and preciousness in biblical contexts. Its enduring nature and resistance to tarnish also symbolized permanence and immutability. For the High Priest's garments, gold signified the sacredness of his office and the holiness of the God he served. Practically, gold is a strong and durable metal, ensuring that these crucial attachment points would securely hold the breastplate, which bore the weight of twelve precious stones and the Urim and Thummim, throughout the High Priest's service. This choice of material underscored the divine perfection required for all elements involved in approaching God's holy presence.

**What was the primary purpose of these rings on the breastplate?**

Answer: The primary purpose of the two gold rings on the breastplate was functional: to serve as secure attachment points. These rings were designed to receive gold chains or cords that would then connect the breastplate to the ephod, the primary garment worn by the High Priest. This connection ensured that the breastplate, with its twelve stones representing the tribes of Israel, remained firmly in place "upon his heart" ([Exodus 28:29](/exodus/28-29 "Exodus 28:29 - Breastplate's Symbolism")) as he ministered before the Lord. The security of this attachment was vital, as the breastplate also contained the Urim and Thummim, used for divine revelation, signifying the High Priest's role as mediator and representative of the entire nation before God. The precision of their placement ensured the proper alignment and integrity of the High Priest's sacred attire.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous detail concerning the gold rings on the High Priest's breastplate, while seemingly minor, points powerfully to the perfect and complete work of Jesus Christ, our ultimate High Priest. The rings ensured the breastplate, bearing the names of Israel, was securely and perfectly connected to the ephod, symbolizing the High Priest's flawless representation of God's people before Him. This foreshadows Christ's own perfect mediation. Unlike the Aaronic priests who wore garments made by human hands and served in an earthly sanctuary, Jesus entered the true Tabernacle in heaven, not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood, having obtained eternal redemption for us ([Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11-12 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ's Superior Priesthood")). His high priestly ministry is not subject to the imperfections of human design or the need for physical attachments to ensure security; rather, His sacrifice and ongoing intercession are eternally secure and flawlessly executed. Just as the breastplate was always "upon the heart" of the High Priest, Christ perpetually bears His people before the Father, interceding for us with a perfect, unbreakable bond ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Intercession")). The divine precision in [Exodus 28:23](/exodus/28-23 "Exodus 28:23 - Gold Rings for the Breastplate") finds its ultimate fulfillment in the absolute perfection of Christ's priestly office, where every aspect of our salvation is divinely ordained, perfectly executed, and eternally secured by His finished work on the cross and His continual advocacy for us at the right hand of God ([Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession")).

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 25:11

And thou shalt overlay it with pure gold, within and without shalt thou overlay it, and shalt make upon it a crown of gold round about.

Exodus 25:15

The staves shall be in the rings of the ark: they shall not be taken from it.