What number verse is Exodus 39:12 in the Bible?

Exodus 39:12 is the 2,677th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Exodus 39:12 sits at position 2,677.

Translation

King James Version

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

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KJV (with Strong's)

And the third ^H7992 row ^H2905, a ligure ^H3958, an agate ^H7618, and an amethyst ^H306.

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Complete Jewish Bible

the third row an orange zircon, an agate and an amethyst;

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Berean Standard Bible

the third row had a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst;

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American Standard Version

and the third row, a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst;

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World English Bible Messianic

and the third row, a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst;

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Geneva Bible (1599)

Also in the thirde rowe, a Turkeis, an Achate, and an Hematite:

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Young's Literal Translation

and the third row an opal, an agate, and an amethyst;

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In the KJVVerse 2,677 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Exodus 39:12 meticulously details the specific precious stones—a ligure, an agate, and an amethyst—that formed the third row of the high priest's breastplate. This verse is an integral part of the comprehensive account of the Tabernacle's construction, emphasizing the divine precision, sacred beauty, and unwavering adherence to God's detailed blueprint for the priestly garments. These stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel, underscored the high priest's crucial role in representing the entire nation before God, highlighting themes of divine order, covenant faithfulness, and intercessory ministry.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Exodus 39 is situated within the latter portion of the book of Exodus, serving as the detailed record of the fulfillment of God's divine commands for the construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings. Chapters 25-31 record God's initial, precise instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai, while chapters 35-40 describe the actual execution of these commands by skilled artisans like Bezalel and Oholiab. Exodus 39 focuses entirely on the creation of the priestly garments for Aaron and his sons, meticulously following the patterns revealed by God. Verse 12, in particular, is a direct fulfillment of the instructions found in Exodus 28:19, which first specified the stones for the third row of the breastplate. The breastplate itself, described in Exodus 28:15-21, was a central component, designed to bear the names of the twelve tribes of Israel before the Lord, emphasizing the high priest's representative and intercessory role.
Historical & Cultural Context: In the ancient Near East, precious stones held significant value, often associated with royalty, wealth, divine favor, and sometimes magical or protective properties. However, in the Israelite context, their use in the Tabernacle and priestly garments transcended mere aesthetic or superstitious purposes. The stones on the high priest's breastplate were not for personal adornment but served a sacred, symbolic function: to represent the twelve tribes of Israel before God's presence. The high priest, as the mediator between God and His people, bore the names of the tribes "on his heart" (as stated in Exodus 28:29) when he entered the holy place. This act underscored God's covenant faithfulness to His people and the priest's role in interceding for them. The meticulous detail in selecting and setting these stones also reflects the profound reverence for God's holiness and the sanctity of the worship space, contrasting sharply with the often chaotic and polytheistic worship practices of surrounding nations.
Key Themes: This verse, and the broader context of the priestly garments, contributes to several key themes within Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights the theme of divine precision and order, demonstrating God's meticulousness in all aspects of worship and His desire for humanity to follow His exact blueprints (Exodus 25:9). Secondly, the use of precious stones underscores the theme of sacred beauty and glory, signifying that what is dedicated to God should be of the highest quality and splendor, reflecting His inherent majesty. Thirdly, the breastplate profoundly embodies the theme of representation and intercession, as the high priest literally carried the names of the tribes into God's presence, foreshadowing the ultimate intercessory work of Christ (Hebrews 7:25). Finally, the entire narrative of the Tabernacle's construction, culminating in the priestly garments, reinforces the overarching theme of God's dwelling among His people and His desire for a holy relationship with them (Exodus 29:45-46).

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Ligure (Hebrew, לֶשֶׁם, leshem', H3958): From an unused root of uncertain meaning, this gem is perhaps the jacinth. While its exact identification remains debated among scholars, it is generally understood to be a precious stone, possibly reddish-orange or yellowish-brown, contributing to the breastplate's overall splendor and diverse palette. Its inclusion signifies a distinct and valuable component of the divinely ordained design.
Agate (Hebrew, שְׁבוֹ, shᵉbûw', H7618): From an unused root meaning "to flame" or "to sparkle," this gem is probably the agate. Agate is a common form of chalcedony known for its distinctive banded patterns and varied colors. Its presence on the breastplate highlights the diversity and unique beauty of each stone, mirroring the distinctiveness and individuality of the tribes it represented, yet united in purpose and placement.
Amethyst (Hebrew, אַחְלָמָה, ʼachlâmâh', H306): Perhaps from a root meaning "dream-stone," this gem is probably the amethyst. This identification is broadly accepted as the beautiful purple variety of quartz. While some ancient beliefs might have associated it with dreams or healing, its primary significance here is its intrinsic value and striking color, which contributed to the breastplate's rich and divinely chosen aesthetic, symbolizing the beauty and holiness of God's presence.

Verse Breakdown

"And the third row,": This phrase emphasizes the systematic and ordered arrangement of the stones on the breastplate. The twelve stones were not placed haphazardly but in four distinct rows of three, reflecting a divine design that valued order and precision in worship. This structured placement ensured that each tribe had its specific, designated place, highlighting the meticulous nature of God's instructions and the careful obedience required in their execution.
"a ligure, an agate, and an amethyst.": This specific enumeration of three distinct precious stones for the third row highlights God's meticulous attention to detail in the construction of the sacred garments. Each stone, with its unique color, texture, and value, contributed to the overall beauty and symbolic richness of the breastplate. Their individual beauty combined to form a unified, glorious representation of the entire nation of Israel before the Lord, underscoring the preciousness of God's people in His sight.

Literary Devices

The verse, though brief and descriptive, effectively employs several significant literary devices. Enumeration is prominently featured, with the precise listing of each stone emphasizing God's meticulousness and the exactitude required in fulfilling His commands. This detailed cataloging of materials is a recurring feature in the Tabernacle construction narratives, reinforcing the theme of divine blueprint and human obedience. Imagery is powerfully evoked through the mention of precious stones. Words like "ligure," "agate," and "amethyst" conjure vivid mental pictures of vibrant colors, dazzling light, and inherent value, contributing to the overall sense of holiness, glory, and beauty associated with God's presence and sacred service. Furthermore, the entire breastplate, of which this verse describes a part, functions as profound symbolism, representing the twelve tribes of Israel carried on the heart of the high priest before God, signifying His constant remembrance, care, and covenant faithfulness towards His people.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Exodus 39:12, as part of the detailed description of the high priest's breastplate, powerfully communicates several profound theological truths. It underscores God's meticulousness and His desire for excellence in worship, demonstrating that every detail, down to the specific type and placement of a stone, matters to Him. The breastplate, with its twelve engraved stones, serves as a tangible symbol of God's covenant faithfulness and His constant remembrance of His people, carried close to the high priest's heart as he ministered before the Lord. This act of bearing the names of the tribes before God highlights the theme of representation and intercession, where one stands on behalf of many. The beauty and preciousness of the stones also reflect the glory and holiness of God, indicating that what is dedicated to Him should be of the highest quality and splendor, fitting for His divine presence.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The meticulous detail in Exodus 39:12, describing the specific stones on the high priest's breastplate, offers profound insights for our spiritual lives. It reminds us that God is a God of order, precision, and beauty, desiring excellence in all things, especially in our worship and service to Him. Just as each unique stone contributed to the overall splendor and purpose of the breastplate, so too does every individual believer, with their distinct gifts, personality, and calling, contribute uniquely to the vibrant tapestry of the body of Christ. God values each of us intimately, carrying us "on His heart" through the perfect and perpetual intercession of our Great High Priest, Jesus. This passage calls us to consider the quality of our offering to God—not just in grand gestures, but in the small, often unseen details of our lives, recognizing that our daily obedience and faithfulness are precious in His sight. It encourages us to live with a consciousness of being deeply loved and represented before God, and to embrace our own priestly calling to bear others in prayer before the Lord, reflecting His compassion and care for His people.

Questions for Reflection

How does God's meticulous attention to detail in the Tabernacle's design inform our understanding of His character and His expectations for our worship and daily living?
In what practical ways can we, as believers, "bear the names" of others before God, reflecting the high priest's intercessory role in our contemporary context?
Considering the beauty and value of the stones, how can we cultivate a deeper appreciation for the holiness and glory of God in our daily lives and in the way we approach spiritual disciplines and service?

FAQ

Why were these specific stones chosen for the breastplate?

Answer: The Bible does not explicitly state the symbolic meaning of each individual stone on the breastplate. However, the selection of precious and distinct stones was divinely commanded, emphasizing the high value and sacredness of the breastplate and its purpose. Collectively, the twelve stones, each engraved with the name of a tribe, symbolized the entire nation of Israel being carried before the Lord by the high priest. The beauty, rarity, and inherent value of the stones also reflected the glory and majesty of God, for whom the Tabernacle and its furnishings were made. The detailed instructions for their placement underscore God's desire for order, precision, and excellence in all aspects of worship, ensuring that the sacred garments were worthy of His holy presence.

What was the overall significance of the high priest's breastplate?

Answer: The breastplate, often called the "breastplate of judgment" (Exodus 28:15), was a central and highly symbolic garment worn by the high priest. Its primary significance was to represent the twelve tribes of Israel before God. By bearing the names of the tribes "on his heart" (Exodus 28:29) when he entered the holy place, the high priest continually brought the people into God's presence, signifying God's constant remembrance and care for His covenant people. Additionally, the breastplate contained the Urim and Thummim (Exodus 28:30), mysterious objects used by the high priest to discern God's will and judgment for the nation, further emphasizing its role in mediation and divine guidance.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The meticulous detail of Exodus 39:12, describing the precious stones on the high priest's breastplate, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament high priest, bearing the names of the twelve tribes "on his heart" before God, served as a powerful type and shadow of our Lord. Jesus is our Great High Priest, who has entered not into an earthly sanctuary made with hands, but into heaven itself, to appear in the very presence of God on our behalf (Hebrews 9:24). Unlike the Levitical priests who offered repeated sacrifices that could never truly take away sin, Christ offered Himself once for all time, a perfect and sufficient sacrifice for sin (Hebrews 9:11-14). He continually intercedes for us, carrying us, His redeemed people—His precious "jewels" (Malachi 3:17)—not merely on a breastplate, but eternally in His very heart before the Father (Romans 8:34 and Hebrews 7:25). The beauty and value of the stones foreshadow the immeasurable worth Christ places upon His church, whom He purchased with His own blood, making us a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9) in Him, eternally represented and cherished in the presence of God.

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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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