Exodus 35:27

KJV

And the rulers brought onyx stones, and stones to be set, for the ephod, and for the breastplate;

KJV (with Strong's)

And the rulers {H5387} brought {H935} onyx {H7718} stones {H68}, and stones {H68} to be set {H4394}, for the ephod {H646}, and for the breastplate {H2833};

Complete Jewish Bible

The leaders brought the onyx stones and the stones to be set, for the ritual vest and the breasplate;

Berean Standard Bible

The leaders brought onyx stones and gemstones to mount on the ephod and breastpiece,

American Standard Version

And the rulers brought the onyx stones, and the stones to be set, for the ephod, and for the breastplate;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 35:27 narrates the specific and highly valuable contribution of Israel's tribal leaders to the Tabernacle's construction. Distinct from the general populace's broader offerings, these "rulers" provided the exceptionally rare and costly gemstones—specifically onyx stones and other precious "stones to be set"—which were exclusively designated for the High Priest's sacred garments: the ephod and the breastplate. This specialized donation was crucial, as these gems were not merely ornamental but held profound symbolic and functional significance for the High Priest's mediatorial role in Israel's worship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the detailed account of the Tabernacle's construction, specifically during the collection of freewill offerings from the Israelite community. Following the meticulous divine blueprint revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai, as recorded in [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25-31 - Instructions for the Tabernacle"), Moses reiterated God's call for contributions to the people in [Exodus 35:4-9](/exodus/35-4-9 "Exodus 35:4-9 - Moses' Call for Offerings for the Tabernacle"). The preceding verses ([Exodus 35:20-26](/exodus/35-20-26 "Exodus 35:20-26 - The People's Generous Offerings")) describe the overwhelming generosity of the general populace, who brought a wide array of materials, from precious metals to textiles. Exodus 35:27 then specifically highlights the distinct and specialized offering made by the "rulers," indicating a tiered system of contribution where those with unique resources provided the most rare and costly items. This particular contribution was critical because these stones were not general building materials but highly specific components for the High Priest's garments, which held profound symbolic and functional significance in the Tabernacle's worship. The collection of materials culminates in [Exodus 35:29](/exodus/35-29 "Exodus 35:29 - Conclusion of Offerings"), setting the stage for the actual construction work detailed in [Exodus 36](/exodus/36 "Exodus 36 - Construction of the Tabernacle Begins").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Israelites, having recently been liberated from centuries of slavery in Egypt, were a nomadic people journeying through the wilderness. Their capacity to contribute such vast quantities of valuable materials, including gold, silver, and precious stones, is often attributed to the "spoiling of the Egyptians" ([Exodus 12:35-36](/exodus/12-35-36 "Exodus 12:35-36 - Israel Spoils the Egyptians")), where they received gifts of silver, gold, and clothing from their former oppressors. Within Israelite society, the "rulers" (Hebrew: _nesi'im_) were the tribal princes or heads of the ancestral houses, individuals who held significant authority and often possessed greater wealth and access to rare resources. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, precious stones were highly valued and frequently incorporated into cultic objects, royal regalia, and sacred vestments, symbolizing divine presence, power, and the elevated status of the wearer. The meticulous detail prescribed for the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the High Priest's garments, underscores the divine blueprint for worship and the sacredness of the space where God would dwell among His people. The High Priest's role as mediator and representative of the entire nation before God made the precise construction of his garments, including these specific stones, absolutely vital for the proper functioning of Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 35:27 contributes significantly to several major themes present in the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. It highlights the theme of **Divine Provision and Human Response**, demonstrating how God's prior provision (the spoils from Egypt) enabled the people's generous response in building His dwelling place. The verse also underscores the theme of **Corporate Responsibility and Leadership by Example**, as the rulers, those in positions of authority, offered the most valuable and specialized materials, setting a precedent for the entire community. Furthermore, the specific mention of stones for the ephod and breastplate points to the crucial theme of **Representation and Intercession**, wherein the High Priest, bearing the names of the tribes, would represent the entire nation before God. This meticulous detail in the Tabernacle's construction, from the general offerings to the specialized gems, reinforces the overarching theme of **Holiness and Divine Order**, emphasizing God's demand for precision, reverence, and the very best in worship. The entire process, from divine instruction to human execution, reflects God's desire for a holy people to dwell in His presence, as seen throughout [Exodus](/exodus/1 "The Book of Exodus").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Rulers (Hebrew, נָשִׂיא, _nâsîyʼ'_):** This term, derived from a root meaning "to lift up" or "exalt," refers to an exalted one, specifically a prince, chief, or governor. In this context, it designates the tribal heads or leaders of Israel. Their distinct contribution underscores their elevated status and particular responsibility within the community. It highlights a principle of leadership by example, where those in authority provided the most valuable and specialized materials required for the Tabernacle's most sacred components. This was not a general tax but a specific, voluntary offering reflecting their unique position and resources.
* **Onyx stones (Hebrew, שֹׁהַם, _shôham'_):** This word denotes a specific gem, likely the beryl, known for its pale green color. In the context of the Tabernacle, these were the two particular onyx stones designated for the shoulder pieces of the High Priest's ephod. Each of these stones was to be engraved with the names of six of the twelve tribes of Israel ([Exodus 28:9-12](/exodus/28-9-12 "Exodus 28:9-12 - The Onyx Stones of the Ephod")), signifying the High Priest bearing the burden and identity of the nation upon his shoulders as he ministered before God. Their specific placement and engraving underscore the representational aspect of the High Priest's role.
* **Stones to be set (Hebrew, מִלֻּאִים, _milluʼ'_):** This term, often translated as "settings" or "fillings," refers to the act of setting gems into a piece of jewelry. Here, it denotes the twelve different precious gemstones that were meticulously arranged and embedded in the High Priest's breastplate. Each of these twelve stones was to be engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel ([Exodus 28:17-21](/exodus/28-17-21 "Exodus 28:17-21 - The Twelve Stones of the Breastplate")), symbolizing the entire nation being presented and remembered before God's presence. These stones were not merely ornamental but held deep symbolic weight, representing the corporate identity and intercessory focus of the High Priest's ministry.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the rulers brought":** This opening clause immediately draws attention to the active and willing participation of the tribal leaders. It distinguishes their contribution from that of the general congregation mentioned in previous verses, highlighting their specific and significant role. Their action serves as a powerful example of leadership and profound commitment to the divine project of establishing God's dwelling place.
* **"onyx stones":** This specifies the first type of exceptionally precious stone contributed. These were not generic gems but the two particular onyx stones designated for the shoulder pieces of the ephod, as detailed in God's earlier instructions to Moses. Their precise mention here confirms the meticulous fulfillment of the divine blueprint for the sacred garments.
* **"and stones to be set":** This refers to the second category of precious stones, specifically the twelve distinct gemstones that would be meticulously placed within the settings of the High Priest's breastplate. These stones, each representing a tribe, required skilled craftsmanship for their proper integration. This phrase underscores the specialized nature of these materials and the intricate work involved in their preparation.
* **"for the ephod, and for the breastplate;":** This final phrase clearly states the sacred destination and ultimate purpose of these valuable contributions. The ephod and breastplate were not ordinary garments but central components of the High Priest's attire, essential for his mediatorial role and for representing the people before God in the Tabernacle's holy precincts. Their function was to bring the names of Israel's tribes into the very presence of the Lord.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 35:27 employs several literary devices to convey its profound significance. **Emphasis** is placed on the "rulers" and their unique contribution, distinguishing their offering from that of the general populace. This highlights the principle of leadership by example and the particular responsibility of those in positions of authority to give their best. The specific mention of "onyx stones" and "stones to be set" demonstrates **Precision** and **Detail**, echoing the meticulous nature of God's instructions for the Tabernacle's construction. This reflects the divine demand for exactness in worship and the sacredness of every component. Furthermore, the two types of stones, though distinct in their placement and specific function, collectively represent the complete set of gems needed for the High Priest's garments. This can be seen as a form of **Merism**, where two significant parts (onyx stones for the ephod, other stones for the breastplate) stand for the whole collection of priestly gems. This careful enumeration underscores the completeness and sufficiency of the offerings for their intended sacred purpose.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 35:27 powerfully illustrates the theological principle of corporate responsibility and the importance of leadership by example in God's work. The rulers, despite their elevated status, did not exempt themselves but contributed the most valuable and specialized materials, setting a precedent for profound generosity and devotion. This act underscores the immense value placed on God's dwelling place among His people, where even the most precious resources were deemed fitting for His glory. The specific use of these stones for the High Priest's garments, which bore the names of the twelve tribes, highlights the themes of representation and intercession, where the entire nation was symbolically brought into God's presence through their mediator. This meticulous attention to detail in the Tabernacle's construction reflects God's own perfect order and His desire for His people to approach Him with reverence and intentionality, offering their very best.

* [Exodus 28:9-12](/exodus/28-9-12 "Exodus 28:9-12 - The Onyx Stones on the Ephod")
* [Exodus 28:15-21](/exodus/28-15-21 "Exodus 28:15-21 - The Breastplate of Judgment and its Stones")
* [Numbers 7:1-88](/numbers/7 "Numbers 7 - The Offerings of the Leaders")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 35:27 challenges us to consider the nature of our own contributions to God's kingdom today. Just as the rulers brought their most valuable and unique resources for a specific, sacred purpose, we are called to offer our "precious stones"—our unique gifts, talents, financial resources, and spheres of influence—for the advancement of God's purposes. This verse particularly speaks to those in leadership positions, reminding them of their profound responsibility to model sacrificial giving and devoted service, not merely to delegate or oversee. Our offerings, whether material or spiritual, are not merely transactional but acts of worship that contribute to the beauty, functionality, and spiritual impact of the church, which is the living temple of God. It encourages us to give our best, not just our leftovers, recognizing that every contribution, no matter how small, plays a vital role in building up God's kingdom and bringing His presence into the world through the community of believers.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways can those in leadership positions today model generosity and committed service to God's work, mirroring the example of the Israelite rulers?**
* **What "precious stones"—unique gifts, resources, or influence—has God entrusted to me, and how am I intentionally using them for His glory and the building of His church, the spiritual temple?**
* **How does the meticulous detail required for the Tabernacle's construction, including the High Priest's garments, inspire my approach to worship and service in my own life and community today?**

### FAQ

**Who were these "rulers" mentioned in Exodus 35:27, and why was their contribution distinct?**

Answer: The "rulers" (Hebrew: _nesi'im_) were the tribal princes or heads of the Israelite clans, holding significant authority, influence, and often greater wealth within the community. Their contribution was distinct because, unlike the general populace who brought a wide array of materials for various parts of the Tabernacle, the rulers specifically provided the exceptionally rare and costly gemstones—the onyx stones and other precious "stones to be set"—that were exclusively designated for the High Priest's ephod and breastplate. This specialized offering underscored their unique position and their responsibility to ensure the completion of the most sacred and intricate components of the priestly attire, as detailed in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments"). Their leadership was demonstrated not just by command, but by costly contribution.

**Why were these specific stones so important for the Tabernacle and the High Priest's ministry?**

Answer: The "onyx stones" and "stones to be set" were not merely decorative; they were functionally and symbolically vital for the High Priest's ephod and breastplate. The two onyx stones on the ephod's shoulders were engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, six on each, symbolizing the High Priest bearing the burden and identity of the entire nation before God. The twelve different gemstones on the breastplate, each engraved with the name of a specific tribe, represented the whole of Israel brought into the very presence of God. These stones were central to the High Priest's role in intercession and divine communication, particularly in conjunction with the [Urim and Thummim](/exodus/28-30 "Exodus 28:30 - The Urim and Thummim") which were placed within the breastplate. Their precision and significance emphasized the holiness of the High Priest's office and the corporate identity of God's people in worship.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 35:27, with its focus on the precious stones for the High Priest's garments, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus, our ultimate and perfect High Priest. The earthly high priest, bearing the names of the twelve tribes on his shoulders and breastplate, imperfectly represented Israel before God, a shadow of the reality to come. In stark contrast, Jesus, our perfect High Priest, bears His people not on mere stones, but on His very heart, carrying our burdens and interceding for us eternally before the Father's throne ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Intercession")). The meticulous detail and preciousness of the stones foreshadow the immeasurable value of Christ's perfect sacrifice, which was not of gold or silver, but His own [precious blood](/1_peter/1-18-19 "1 Peter 1:18-19 - Redeemed by Precious Blood") poured out on the cross. He entered the true, heavenly sanctuary [once for all](/hebrews/9-11-12 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice"), securing eternal redemption, a work infinitely more glorious and effective than any earthly priestly act. Through His perfect work, we, His church, are not merely represented by stones, but are made into [living stones](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones"), built into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Him. The rulers' costly offering points to the infinitely greater "cost" of Christ's love and His complete provision for our access to God.

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

Ezra 2:68

And [some] of the chief of the fathers, when they came to the house of the LORD which [is] at Jerusalem, offered freely for the house of God to set it up in his place:

1 Chronicles 29:6

Then the chief of the fathers and princes of the tribes of Israel, and the captains of thousands and of hundreds, with the rulers of the king's work, offered willingly,

Exodus 35:9

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