What number verse is Exodus 39:11 in the Bible?

Exodus 39:11 is the 2,676th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Exodus 39:11 sits at position 2,676.

Translation

King James Version

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

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KJV (with Strong's)

And the second ^H8145 row ^H2905, an emerald ^H5306, a sapphire ^H5601, and a diamond ^H3095.

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Complete Jewish Bible

the second row a green feldspar, a sapphire and a diamond;

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Berean Standard Bible

the second row had a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond;

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American Standard Version

and the second row, an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond;

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World English Bible Messianic

and the second row, a turquoise, a sapphire, and an emerald;

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And in the seconde rowe, an Emeraude, a Saphir, and a Diamond:

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Young's Literal Translation

and the second row an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond;

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Exodus 39:11 meticulously details the composition of the second row of precious stones—an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond—affixed to the High Priest's breastplate. This verse is an integral part of the comprehensive record of the Tabernacle's construction and the priestly garments, all crafted with unwavering precision in exact obedience to God's divine instructions given to Moses. It profoundly underscores the divine demand for precision in worship and the deep symbolic representation of God's covenant people.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: This verse is deeply embedded within the concluding chapters of Exodus (Exodus 35-40), which meticulously chronicle the fulfillment of God's commands for the Tabernacle's construction and the priestly vestments, as originally detailed in Exodus 25-31. Specifically, Exodus 39:8-21 describes the fabrication of the breastplate of judgment (choshen mishpat), including the precise setting of the twelve precious stones. The instructions for these stones were initially laid out in Exodus 28:17-20, and here, the text confirms their exact placement and composition. The repetition of these details across the command and fulfillment sections serves to emphasize the paramount importance of exact adherence to God's specifications, highlighting the sacredness and immense symbolic weight of each element within the divine blueprint.
Historical & Cultural Context: The construction of the Tabernacle represented the central undertaking for the Israelites during their wilderness journey, serving as the tangible manifestation of God's dwelling presence among His covenant people. The High Priest's garments, particularly the breastplate, transcended mere decoration; they were deeply functional and imbued with profound symbolism. Worn directly over the ephod, the breastplate held twelve unique stones, each meticulously engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This ensured that the High Priest, acting as the designated mediator, literally bore the names of the entire nation before the Lord whenever he entered the Holy Place, symbolizing God's constant remembrance, care, and intercession for His covenant people. In the broader ancient Near Eastern context, precious stones were highly valued not only for their inherent beauty and rarity but also often believed to possess mystical, protective, or even divine qualities, making their inclusion in sacred attire particularly significant and universally understood as a mark of honor and divine favor.
Key Themes: Exodus 39:11 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores the theme of Divine Precision and Obedience, demonstrating that every detail of God's instructions, no matter how minute, was to be followed exactly. This meticulousness reflects God's ordered character and the sanctity required in His worship. Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of Representation and Intercession, as the stones on the breastplate symbolize the High Priest bearing the entire nation before God, a concept central to the priestly ministry described in Exodus 28:29. Thirdly, it speaks to the Glory and Beauty of God's Dwelling, as the precious stones contribute to the splendor of the priestly garments, reflecting the majesty of the God whom the Tabernacle housed. Finally, it reinforces the theme of Covenant Relationship, where each distinct tribe, though diverse, was united and precious in God's sight, brought together in His presence through the High Priest.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

second (Hebrew, shênîy', H8145): From the root meaning "double," this word properly signifies "second" in sequence. Its use here emphasizes the ordered, systematic arrangement of the stones on the breastplate. It highlights the divine precision in the Tabernacle's construction, ensuring that each of the twelve tribes was represented in a structured and complete manner, with no omission.
row (Hebrew, ṭûwr', H2905): Derived from an unused root implying a regular arrangement or range, this term denotes a line or series. In this context, it refers to one of the four horizontal lines of stones on the breastplate. Its inclusion underscores the methodical and deliberate design of the breastplate, where each stone had its designated place within a larger, unified pattern, reflecting divine order.
emerald (Hebrew, nôphek', H5306): From an unused root meaning "to glisten," this term describes a shining gem, likely a stone with a vibrant green hue. While translated "emerald" in the KJV, modern gemologists often suggest it was more likely a garnet or another brilliant green stone, as the beryl emerald known today was not typically used or cut in that era. Its presence contributed to the rich tapestry of colors on the breastplate, symbolizing beauty and perhaps vitality.
sapphire (Hebrew, çappîyr', H5601): This term refers to a precious gem, possibly used for scratching other substances due to its hardness. It is widely believed to refer to lapis lazuli, a deep blue, opaque stone often flecked with gold, rather than the transparent corundum sapphire of modern times. Lapis lazuli was highly esteemed in the ancient world and frequently associated with divine majesty and heavenly realms, as seen in descriptions of God's throne or pavement in Exodus 24:10. Its deep blue color evoked transcendence and the heavens.
diamond (Hebrew, yahălôm', H3095): Derived from a root conveying hardness, this word denotes a precious stone. While translated "diamond," it almost certainly does not refer to the carbon diamond we know today, which was not cut or polished in antiquity as it is now. Scholars suggest it was likely onyx, jasper, or rock crystal, valued for its extreme hardness, durability, and ability to reflect light. Its inclusion on the breastplate would have signified permanence, strength, and perhaps the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people.

Verse Breakdown

"And the second row": This opening phrase immediately places the verse within the ongoing, systematic enumeration of the precious stones adorning the High Priest's breastplate. It follows the description of the first row in the preceding verse (Exodus 39:10), emphasizing the ordered, complete, and precise nature of the divine instructions and their faithful execution. This methodical listing ensures that all twelve tribes of Israel were represented in a structured and intentional manner before the Lord.
"an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond": This specific listing identifies the three distinct stones designated for this particular row. Each stone, with its unique color, brilliance, and perceived properties, contributed to the overall aesthetic splendor and profound symbolic richness of the breastplate. The careful selection of these diverse gems underscores the diversity of the tribes of Israel, yet their unity as they were collectively brought together and presented before God through the High Priest's mediatorial role.

Literary Devices

Exodus 39:11 primarily employs Enumeration (or Cataloging), a literary device where elements are listed sequentially. The verse simply itemizes the three specific stones in the second row of the breastplate. This precise listing contributes to the overall meticulous inventory of the Tabernacle's construction found throughout Exodus 39, highlighting God's exactitude and the critical importance of adhering precisely to His divine blueprint. Beyond mere listing, the cumulative effect of such detailed enumeration throughout the description of the priestly garments underscores the profound Symbolism inherent in each component. Each stone, distinct in its beauty and properties, contributed to the unified representation of the twelve tribes of Israel, symbolizing their collective presence before God and His constant remembrance of His covenant people. Furthermore, the inherent beauty, rarity, and preciousness of the stones themselves carry significant Symbolic weight, signifying the glory, honor, and sacredness associated with the High Priest's office and, by extension, the holiness and majesty of the God whom he served. The selection of these specific, valuable gems elevates the spiritual significance of the object, marking it as sacred and set apart.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Exodus 39:11, despite its seemingly simple enumeration of stones, profoundly illustrates God's meticulous attention to detail and His desire for order, beauty, and perfection in worship. The breastplate, with its twelve precious stones, served as a tangible and visual reminder that the High Priest bore the names of all the tribes of Israel before the Lord, signifying God's constant remembrance, unwavering care, and perpetual intercession for His people. This act underscored the covenant relationship, where each tribe, distinct yet united, was uniquely precious in God's sight. The divine precision in the selection and placement of each stone speaks volumes about the sacredness of the High Priest's office and the holiness of the God he served, for whom nothing was too small or insignificant in the context of His dwelling and worship. This foreshadows a greater reality of God's personal knowledge and care for each individual within His new covenant people.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

This seemingly simple verse invites us to reflect on the profound truth of God's personal, meticulous, and unwavering care for His people. Just as each stone on the breastplate was unique, precious, and specifically chosen to represent a distinct tribe, so too are we, as individual believers, uniquely valued, known, and remembered by God. The High Priest bore the names of Israel close to his heart, symbolizing God's intimate knowledge and concern for each one of us. This truth should instill in us a deep sense of security, belonging, and profound worth, knowing that our names are eternally etched in the heart of our divine High Priest. Furthermore, the beauty and glory of these meticulously crafted garments remind us that our lives, when submitted to God's divine design and purpose, are meant to reflect His glory and beauty in the world, serving as living stones in His spiritual house, a testament to His transformative power and grace. Our individual distinctiveness contributes to the collective splendor of His church.

Questions for Reflection

How does the meticulous detail in the construction of the breastplate, as seen in this verse, speak to God's character and His expectations for our worship and service today?
In what specific ways do you personally feel "borne" or remembered by God, knowing that the High Priest carried the names of Israel before Him?
Considering the inherent beauty and value of these stones, how can we, as God's redeemed people, better reflect His glory and beauty in our daily lives and interactions with the world?

FAQ

Why are the specific identifications of these ancient stones debated by scholars?

Answer: The debate regarding the precise identification of these ancient stones arises primarily from the nature of the Hebrew terminology and the evolution of gemological science. In biblical times, stones were often classified by their dominant color, general appearance, or physical properties (e.g., hardness, brilliance) rather than by their exact modern mineralogical composition. Furthermore, the same ancient name might have applied to different stones across various regions or periods, or a single Hebrew term might encompass a broader category of gems. Thus, nophek (emerald), sappir (sapphire), and yahalom (diamond) refer to categories of precious, colorful, and hard stones, whose exact modern equivalents are difficult to pinpoint with absolute certainty. The spiritual and symbolic significance of them being precious, beautiful, and representative of God's people is far more important than their precise modern classification.

What is the deeper significance of the "second row" being specified?

Answer: The specification of the "second row" is an integral part of the overall meticulous cataloging of the breastplate's construction, emphasizing God's demand for divine order, completeness, and precision. The breastplate was specifically designed to hold twelve stones, arranged in four distinct rows of three. Each row contributed to the full and comprehensive representation of the twelve tribes of Israel. By detailing each row individually, the text underscores the systematic and comprehensive nature of God's design, ensuring that every tribe—and by extension, every part of His people—was accounted for and brought before Him in a structured, intentional, and non-negotiable manner. It highlights divine precision and the sacred, non-negotiable nature of God's instructions for sacred service and worship.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Exodus 39:11, with its description of the High Priest bearing precious stones representing the tribes of Israel, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The earthly High Priest, with his ornate garments and the breastplate of judgment, served as a powerful and divinely ordained foreshadowing of our Great High Priest, Jesus Christ. Unlike Aaron, who bore the names of physical Israel on tangible stones, Jesus bears His people—the new Israel, the Church—not on a breastplate, but eternally etched upon His very heart, in His perpetual and perfect intercession before the Father. He has entered, not into an earthly sanctuary made with human hands, but into the heavenly Holy of Holies, having obtained eternal redemption for us through the shedding of His own precious blood (Hebrews 9:11-12). Just as the stones were precious and unique, so too are believers infinitely precious in Christ's sight, bought with an immeasurable price. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, and through His finished work, we are not merely represented but eternally united to God, His intercession for us being constant, perfect, and eternally effective (Hebrews 7:25). The beauty, glory, and preciousness of the breastplate ultimately point to the surpassing glory of Christ, who perfectly embodies God's presence and perfectly represents and intercedes for His beloved people.

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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.

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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.

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Cross-References

Ezekiel 28:13
Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created.
Exodus 28:18
And the second row shall be an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond.