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.

And Aaron {H175} shall bear {H5375} the names {H8034} of the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} in the breastplate {H2833} of judgment {H4941} upon his heart {H3820}, when he goeth {H935} in unto the holy {H6944} place, for a memorial {H2146} before {H6440} the LORD {H3068} continually {H8548}.

Aharon will carry the names of the sons of Isra'el on the breastplate for judging, over his heart, when he enters the Holy Place, as a continual reminder before ADONAI.

Whenever Aaron enters the Holy Place, he shall bear the names of the sons of Israel over his heart on the breastpiece of judgment, as a continual reminder before the LORD.

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 Jehovah continually.

Commentary

Context of Exodus 28:29

Exodus 28:29 is part of a detailed section in the book of Exodus concerning the construction of the Tabernacle and the garments for the priests, particularly Aaron, who was designated as the first High Priest of Israel. This specific verse focuses on the significance of the breastplate, one of the eight sacred garments worn by Aaron. The instructions for these garments emphasize holiness, glory, and the sacred duties of the priesthood, all designed to facilitate God's presence among His people.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Representation: The verse highlights Aaron's role as the representative of the entire nation. By bearing "the names of the children of Israel" on his heart, Aaron physically and symbolically carried the people into God's presence. This act underscored that the High Priest did not minister for himself alone, but on behalf of all twelve tribes.
  • Intercession and Remembrance: The phrase "for a memorial before the LORD continually" signifies that the names of Israel were perpetually brought before God. This was an act of constant intercession, reminding the LORD of His covenant people and their needs. It symbolized God's unwavering remembrance of His promises and His chosen nation.
  • Intimacy and Care: The placement "upon his heart" indicates a profound closeness and affection. It wasn't just a duty but a deeply personal carrying of the people's identity and burdens before God. This position suggests a heart of love and responsibility for the flock.
  • Judgment and Divine Counsel: The "breastplate of judgment" (Hebrew: choshen mishpat) was not merely decorative. It held the Urim and Thummim, objects used for discerning God's will and making divine judgments. Thus, when Aaron stood before God, he was not only representing the people but also seeking divine guidance and judgment on their behalf.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "memorial" is zikkarรดn (ื–ึดื›ึธึผืจื•ึนืŸ), which implies more than just a passive remembrance. It suggests an active calling to mind, a permanent reminder, often with the intent of eliciting a response or action. This active remembrance ensures that God's covenant with Israel is continually brought to mind in the sacred space of the Tabernacle.

Practical Application and Reflection

Exodus 28:29 offers profound insights for believers today:

  • Christ Our High Priest: The Old Testament priesthood, including Aaron's role, foreshadowed the ultimate priesthood of Jesus Christ. Just as Aaron bore the names of Israel, Jesus, our great High Priest, continually intercedes for us before the Father. He carries our names, our burdens, and our needs "upon His heart," ensuring our constant remembrance and advocacy before God.
  • Our Identity in Christ: Through Christ, believers are part of a spiritual nation, a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9). We are not forgotten by God; our names are inscribed in the Lamb's Book of Life, and we are eternally remembered and cherished by Him.
  • The Heart of Leadership: For those in leadership roles, Aaron's example emphasizes the importance of carrying the people they serve "upon their heart" โ€“ with genuine care, responsibility, and constant intercession before God.

This verse beautifully illustrates God's desire for an intimate, represented relationship with His people, a relationship fully realized through the ministry of Jesus Christ.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Jeremiah 30:21

    And their nobles shall be of themselves, and their governor shall proceed from the midst of them; and I will cause him to draw near, and he shall approach unto me: for who [is] this that engaged his heart to approach unto me? saith the LORD.

  • Romans 10:1

    ยถ Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.

  • Isaiah 49:15

    Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.

  • Isaiah 49:16

    Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of [my] hands; thy walls [are] continually before me.

  • Exodus 28:15

    ยถ And thou shalt make the breastplate of judgment with cunning work; after the work of the ephod thou shalt make it; [of] gold, [of] blue, and [of] purple, and [of] scarlet, and [of] fine twined linen, shalt thou make it.