What number verse is Exodus 39:10 in the Bible?

Exodus 39:10 is the 2,675th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Exodus 39:10 sits at position 2,675.

Translation

King James Version

And they set in it four rows of stones: the first row was a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle: this was the first row.

Ask

KJV (with Strong's)

And they set ^H4390 in it four ^H702 rows ^H2905 of stones ^H68: the first row ^H2905 was a sardius ^H124, a topaz ^H6357, and a carbuncle ^H1304: this was the first ^H259 row ^H2905.

Ask

Complete Jewish Bible

They put on it four rows of stones: the first row was a carnelian, a topaz and an emerald;

Ask

Berean Standard Bible

And they mounted on it four rows of gemstones: The first row had a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald;

Ask

American Standard Version

And they set in it four rows of stones. A row of sardius, topaz, and carbuncle was the first row;

Ask

World English Bible Messianic

They set in it four rows of stones. A row of ruby, topaz, and beryl was the first row;

Ask

Geneva Bible (1599)

And they filled it with foure rowes of stones. The order was thus, a Rubie, a Topaze, and a Carbuncle in the first rowe:

Ask

Young's Literal Translation

And they fill in it four rows of stones; a row of a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle is the one row;

Ask

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Exodus 39:10 meticulously details the precise arrangement of the first row of precious stones on the high priest's breastplate, a sacred garment integral to Israel's worship. This verse, part of the extensive record of the Tabernacle's construction, underscores the divine demand for exact adherence to God's blueprint, emphasizing the inherent beauty, profound value, and deep symbolic significance of the materials consecrated for the Lord's service and the representation of His covenant people.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Exodus 39 serves as the culminating narrative of Israel's obedience to God's detailed instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings, initially outlined in Exodus 25-31. This chapter provides a meticulous account of the actual construction, demonstrating the faithful execution of every divine command by Bezalel, Oholiab, and the skilled artisans. Specifically, Exodus 39:10 follows the general description of the breastplate's intricate design and materials in Exodus 39:8-9 and precedes the enumeration of the subsequent rows of stones and the final attachment of the breastplate to the ephod. The repetitive nature of the descriptions throughout Exodus 35-40 emphasizes the sanctity and divine origin of the entire Tabernacle system, highlighting Israel's unwavering commitment to God's revealed will.
Historical & Cultural Context: The construction of the Tabernacle and its priestly vestments was a pivotal event during Israel's wilderness wanderings, solidifying their identity as a unique nation set apart by God. The high priest, adorned with the breastplate, functioned as the primary mediator between Yahweh and His people, entering the Most Holy Place on the Day of Atonement to make intercession for the entire nation. The breastplate, often referred to as the "breastplate of judgment" (Exodus 28:15), was designed to bear twelve distinct precious stones, each meticulously engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This arrangement profoundly symbolized the high priest's role in carrying the people continually before the Lord's presence, ensuring their constant remembrance and representation before God. This practice resonated with ancient Near Eastern priestly traditions where representatives bore symbols of their people, but here it was uniquely tied to the covenant God of Israel. The selection of precious stones also underscored the immense value, glory, and holiness associated with divine presence and sacred service, reflecting the splendor of God Himself.
Key Themes: Exodus 39:10 significantly contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it exemplifies the theme of Divine Order and Precision, demonstrating God's meticulous attention to detail in all matters pertaining to His worship and the representation of His holiness. Every instruction, down to the specific stones and their arrangement, was divinely ordained, reinforcing the idea that true worship requires careful adherence to God's revealed will. Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of Representation and Intercession, as the stones on the breastplate symbolize the high priest bearing the tribes of Israel before God, a constant reminder of their covenant relationship and need for mediation. This theme finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament. Thirdly, the use of precious stones speaks to the theme of Holiness and Glory, emphasizing the sacredness of God's dwelling place and the honor bestowed upon those who serve Him. The radiant beauty of the breastplate reflects the glory of God and the preciousness of His people in His sight, as seen in passages like Exodus 28:2.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Sardius (Hebrew, ʼôdem', H124): From the root meaning "redness," this term refers to a reddish gem, commonly identified as carnelian or red jasper. Its vibrant red color would have been visually striking, symbolizing life, vitality, perhaps the blood of atonement, or the vibrant life of the tribes. As the first stone in the first row, its prominence suggests a foundational or primary significance within the overall arrangement of the breastplate.
Topaz (Hebrew, piṭdâh', H6357): Described as a gem of foreign derivation, likely a yellowish-green stone such as chrysolite or peridot. This stone would have provided a distinct contrasting hue to the deep red of the sardius, contributing to the overall visual diversity and brilliance of the breastplate. Its inclusion underscores the variety and richness of the materials God commanded for His sacred garments.
Carbuncle (Hebrew, bâreqeth', H1304): Derived from a root meaning "to flash" or "to sparkle," this gem is often identified as an emerald or garnet, known for its deep green or fiery red luminescence. The name itself suggests a stone that brilliantly catches and reflects light, enhancing the dazzling appearance of the breastplate. This "flashing" quality would have further emphasized the glory and preciousness associated with the high priest's office and the people he represented before God.

Verse Breakdown

"And they set in it four rows of stones:": This opening clause establishes the fundamental structural design for the breastplate's adornment. The verb "set" (H4390, mâlêʼ, meaning "to fill" or "to furnish") implies a deliberate, precise, and complete placement, not a casual arrangement. The "it" refers to the breastplate, a folded square of fabric specifically designed to securely hold these precious gems. The mention of "four rows" immediately communicates a systematic and ordered arrangement, emphasizing the divine precision required in all aspects of the Tabernacle's construction.
"[the first] row [was] a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle:": This segment specifies the exact composition of the inaugural row. The naming of these three distinct precious stones—sardius, topaz, and carbuncle—highlights their individual beauty, unique colors, and their collective contribution to the breastplate's overall splendor. Each stone was likely unique in its cut and brilliance, contributing to a mosaic of radiance. This detail underscores the meticulousness of God's design and the craftsmen's faithful execution, ensuring that every element was perfectly aligned with the divine blueprint.
"this [was] the first row.": This concluding phrase serves as an emphatic reiteration and confirmation. The repetition of "first row" (H259, ʼechâd, meaning "one" or "first"; H2905, ṭûwr, meaning "row") clearly delineates the completion of this initial segment of the breastplate's adornment. It functions as a literary marker, drawing attention to the significance of this foundational set of stones and preparing the reader for the subsequent descriptions of the remaining rows, reinforcing the orderly progression of the sacred work.

Literary Devices

Exodus 39:10 employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is Symbolism, where the precious stones themselves are rich with meaning. They represent the twelve tribes of Israel, each unique yet united, borne upon the high priest's heart before God. Their inherent beauty, rarity, and intrinsic value symbolize the immense worth God places on His covenant people and the holiness required in His presence. The act of "setting" these stones in "four rows" also utilizes Order and Structure as a literary motif, reinforcing the divine precision and meticulousness that characterized all aspects of the Tabernacle's construction and Israel's worship. This structured arrangement mirrors the divine order in creation and in God's covenant relationship with His people. Furthermore, the repetition of "this was the first row" at the end of the verse serves as a form of Emphasis and Clarity, drawing attention to the completion of this initial, foundational segment of the breastplate's adornment and underscoring the importance of each step in the divinely ordained process. This repetition ensures the reader grasps the meticulousness of the work.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Exodus 39:10, in its precise description of the breastplate's first row, reveals profound truths about God's character and His intimate relationship with His people. The meticulous detail underscores divine order, holiness, and the immense value God places on His covenant community. The breastplate, with its radiant stones, served as a tangible reminder that Israel was continually borne upon the high priest's heart before the Lord, signifying God's unceasing remembrance, care, and intercession for His people. This ancient priestly function powerfully foreshadows the perfect and perpetual intercession of a greater High Priest, Jesus Christ, who perfectly represents His people before God.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The intricate details of Exodus 39:10, though describing an ancient artifact, offer profound insights for contemporary believers. God's meticulous attention to every aspect of the breastplate's construction reveals His nature as a God of order, beauty, and intentionality. Just as He cared for the precise arrangement of these precious stones, He cares for every detail of our lives, valuing us individually and collectively as His chosen people. This passage reminds us that our service to God, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, should be characterized by excellence, faithfulness, and a deep reverence for His commands, reflecting the divine precision seen in the Tabernacle. Moreover, the powerful symbolism of the high priest bearing the tribes on his heart should stir within us a deep appreciation for the intercessory work of Christ, our ultimate High Priest, who continually presents us before the Father, ensuring our constant remembrance and access to God's grace. We are His precious jewels, uniquely set in His crown, cherished and eternally secured in His love.

Questions for Reflection

How does God's meticulous attention to detail in the Tabernacle's construction challenge or affirm your understanding of His character and His involvement in your life?
In what practical ways can you apply the principle of "divine precision and faithful obedience" to your own service, relationships, and daily walk with God?
How does the imagery of the high priest bearing the tribes on his heart deepen your appreciation for Christ's perfect and perpetual intercessory work on your behalf, knowing He bears you before the Father?

FAQ

What was the purpose of the breastplate and its stones?

Answer: The breastplate, often called the "breastplate of judgment," was a sacred garment worn by the high priest of Israel. Its primary purpose was to symbolize the high priest bearing the twelve tribes of Israel before the Lord when he entered the holy place (Exodus 28:29). Each of the twelve stones was meticulously engraved with the name of one of the tribes, signifying their constant remembrance and representation before God. Furthermore, the breastplate served as a means for the high priest to discern God's will through the Urim and Thummim, mysterious objects placed within it, which were used to receive divine guidance for the nation (Exodus 28:30).

Were specific stones assigned to specific tribes?

Answer: While the text of Exodus clearly states that each of the twelve stones was engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel (Exodus 28:21), it does not explicitly assign a particular stone to a specific tribe within the biblical narrative. Later Jewish tradition and various commentators have attempted to make such assignments, often based on the birth order of the sons of Jacob or the tribal encampment order described in Numbers 2. However, the biblical text itself leaves these specific assignments unstated, emphasizing the collective representation of all tribes rather than individual stone-tribe connections, highlighting the unity and comprehensive nature of God's care for His entire people.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The meticulous detail of the breastplate's construction, particularly the setting of its precious stones, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. Just as the high priest of old bore the names of the twelve tribes upon his heart before the Lord, Christ continually bears His people—the redeemed, the new Israel—before the Father's throne. His intercession is not a once-a-year ritual but a perpetual reality, for He "always lives to intercede" for us (Hebrews 7:25). The beauty and preciousness of the stones symbolize the immense value God places on His redeemed people, a value perfectly demonstrated in Christ's sacrificial death, which purchased us for God "from every tribe and language and people and nation" (Revelation 5:9). Moreover, believers are now described as "living stones" being built into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ (1 Peter 2:5). Thus, the radiant breastplate, bearing the names of God's people, foreshadows the glorious reality of Christ's perfect representation of His church, making us eternally precious and perpetually present before the very heart of God, secured by His unfailing love and intercession.

Copy as

Commentary on Exodus 39 verses 1–31

1 ¶ And of the blue, and purple, and scarlet, they made cloths of service, to do service in the holy place, and made the holy garments for Aaron; as the LORD commanded Moses.

2 And he made the ephod of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen.

3 And they did beat the gold into thin plates, and cut it into wires, to work it in the blue, and in the purple, and in the scarlet, and in the fine linen, with cunning work.

4 They made shoulderpieces for it, to couple it together: by the two edges was it coupled together.

5 And the curious girdle of his ephod, that was upon it, was of the same, according to the work thereof; of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen; as the LORD commanded Moses.

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

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.

8 And he made the breastplate of cunning work, like the work of the ephod; of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen.

9 It was foursquare; they made the breastplate double: a span was the length thereof, and a span the breadth thereof, being doubled.

10 And they set in it four rows of stones: the first row was a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle: this was the first row.

11 And the second row, an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond.

12 And the third row, a ligure, an agate, and an amethyst.

13 And the fourth row, a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper: they were inclosed in ouches of gold in their inclosings.

14 And the stones were according to the names of the children of Israel, twelve, according to their names, like the engravings of a signet, every one with his name, according to the twelve tribes.

15 And they made upon the breastplate chains at the ends, of wreathen work of pure gold.

16 And they made two ouches of gold, and two gold rings; and put the two rings in the two ends of the breastplate.

17 And they put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings on the ends of the breastplate.

18 And the two ends of the two wreathen chains they fastened in the two ouches, and put them on the shoulderpieces of the ephod, before it.

19 And they made two rings of gold, and put them on the two ends of the breastplate, upon the border of it, which was on the side of the ephod inward.

20 And they made two other golden rings, and put them on the two sides of the ephod underneath, toward the forepart of it, over against the other coupling thereof, above the curious girdle of the ephod.

21 And they did bind the breastplate by his rings unto the rings of the ephod with a lace of blue, that it might be above the curious girdle of the ephod, and that the breastplate might not be loosed from the ephod; as the LORD commanded Moses.

22 And he made the robe of the ephod of woven work, all of blue.

23 And there was an hole in the midst of the robe, as the hole of an habergeon, with a band round about the hole, that it should not rend.

24 And they made upon the hems of the robe pomegranates of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and twined linen.

25 And they made bells of pure gold, and put the bells between the pomegranates upon the hem of the robe, round about between the pomegranates;

26 A bell and a pomegranate, a bell and a pomegranate, round about the hem of the robe to minister in; as the LORD commanded Moses.

27 And they made coats of fine linen of woven work for Aaron, and for his sons,

28 And a mitre of fine linen, and goodly bonnets of fine linen, and linen breeches of fine twined linen,

29 And a girdle of fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet, of needlework; as the LORD commanded Moses.

30 And they made the plate of the holy crown of pure gold, and wrote upon it a writing, like to the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD.

31 And they tied unto it a lace of blue, to fasten it on high upon the mitre; as the LORD commanded Moses.

In this account of the making of the priests' garments, according to the instructions given (ch. 28), we may observe, 1. That the priests' garments are called here clothes of service, Exo 39:1. Note, Those that wear robes of honour must look upon them as clothes of service; for from those upon whom honour is put service is expected. It is said of those that are arrayed in white robes that they are before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple, Rev 7:13, Rev 7:15. Holy garments were not made for men to sleep in, or to strut in, but to do service in; and then they are indeed for glory and beauty. The Son of man himself came not to be ministered unto, but to minister. 2. That all the six paragraphs here, which give a distinct account of the making of these holy garments, conclude with those words, as the Lord commanded Moses, Exo 39:5, Exo 39:7, Exo 39:21, Exo 39:26, Exo 39:29, Exo 39:31. The like is not in any of the foregoing accounts, as if in these, more than any other of the appurtenances of the tabernacle, they had a particular regard to the divine appointment, both for warrant and for direction. It is an intimation to all the Lord's ministers to make the word of God their rule in all their ministrations, and to act in observance of and obedience to the command of God. 3. That these garments, in conformity to the rest of the furniture of the tabernacle, were very rich and splendid; the church in its infancy was thus taught, thus pleased, with the rudiments of this world; but now under the gospel, which is the ministration of the Spirit, to affect and impose such pompous habits as the church of Rome does, under pretence of decency and instruction, is to betray the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free, and to entangle the church again in the bondage of those carnal ordinances which were imposed only till the time of reformation. 4. That they were all shadows of good things to come, but the substance is Christ, and the grace of the gospel; when therefore the substance has come, it is a jest to be fond of the shadow. (1.) Christ is our great high-priest; when he undertook the work of our redemption, he put on the clothes of service - he arrayed himself with the gifts and graces of the Spirit, which he received not by measure - girded himself with the curious girdle of resolution, to go through with his undertaking - charged himself with the curious girdle of resolution, to go through with his undertaking - charged himself with all God's spiritual Israel, bore them on his shoulders, carried them in his bosom, laid them near his heart, engraved them on the palms of his hands, and presented them in the breast-plate of judgment unto his Father. And (lastly) he crowned himself with holiness to the Lord, consecrating his whole undertaking to the honour of his Father's holiness: now consider how great this man is. (2.) True believers are spiritual priests. The clean linen with which all their clothes of service must be made is the righteousness of saints (Rev 19:8), and Holiness to the Lord must be so written upon their foreheads that all who converse with them may see, and say, that they bear the image of God's holiness, and are devoted to the praise of it.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–31. Public domain.

Copy as

Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

Copy as

Continue studying Exodus 39:10 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.

Read & Compare

Commentaries

Original Language & Research

Sermons, Hymns & Audio

TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.

Cross-References

Revelation 21:19
And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;
Revelation 21:21
And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.
Exodus 28:16
Foursquare it shall be being doubled; a span shall be the length thereof, and a span shall be the breadth thereof.
Exodus 28:17
And thou shalt set in it settings of stones, even four rows of stones: the first row shall be a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle: this shall be the first row.
Exodus 28:21
And the stones shall be with the names of the children of Israel, twelve, according to their names, like the engravings of a signet; every one with his name shall they be according to the twelve tribes.