What number verse is Exodus 39:13 in the Bible?

Exodus 39:13 is the 2,678th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Exodus 39:13 sits at position 2,678.

39:1239:12

Exodus 39:13

Q: What was the purpose of the breastplate of judgment, and why were these specific stones used?

The breastplate of judgment (choshen mishpat) was a sacred garment worn by the High Priest, designed to hold twelve precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Its primary purpose was to signify the High Priest's role as the representative and intercessor for all Israel before God. By bearing their names over his heart, he continually brought the people into God's presence, signifying their constant remembrance and inclusion in God's covenant. The specific stones, including beryl, onyx, and jasper mentioned in Exodus 39:13, were chosen according to divine command (see Exodus 28:17-20). While the exact symbolic meaning of each individual stone is not explicitly stated in the Old Testament, their collective beauty, rarity, and diversity underscored the glory of God, the preciousness of His covenant people, and the holiness required in His service. The breastplate also housed the Urim and Thummim, objects used for discerning God's will and judgment (see Exodus 28:30), which is why it was called the "breastplate of judgment."

39:1439:14

Translation

King James Version

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

Ask

KJV (with Strong's)

And the fourth ^H7243 row ^H2905, a beryl ^H8658, an onyx ^H7718, and a jasper ^H3471: they were inclosed ^H4142 in ouches ^H4865 of gold ^H2091 in their inclosings ^H4396.

Ask

Complete Jewish Bible

and the fourth row a beryl, an onyx and a jasper. They were mounted in settings of gold.

Ask

Berean Standard Bible

and the fourth row had a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. These stones were mounted in gold filigree settings.

Ask

American Standard Version

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

Ask

World English Bible Messianic

and the fourth row, a chrysolite, an onyx, and a jasper. They were enclosed in gold settings.

Ask

Geneva Bible (1599)

Likewise in the fourth rowe, a Chrysolite, an Onix, and a Iasper: closed and set in ouches of golde.

Ask

Young's Literal Translation

and the fourth row a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper--set, embroidered with gold, in their settings.

Ask

See on the biblical-era map

The Kingdom of Egypt in the Time of Moses View full PDF

Building Plan: The Tabernacle View full PDF

Map © Biblica Open Bible Maps · CC BY-SA 4.0

In the KJVVerse 2,678 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Exodus 39:13 meticulously details the final three precious stones—beryl, onyx, and jasper—that complete the fourth row of the High Priest's breastplate. This verse underscores the precise fulfillment of God's divine instructions for the construction of the sacred garments, emphasizing the beauty, holiness, and symbolic representation of the twelve tribes of Israel perpetually borne before the Lord, all securely set in gold.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Exodus 39:13 is situated within the concluding chapters of Exodus (chapters 35-40), which meticulously describe the construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, along with the priestly garments, all in precise obedience to the divine blueprint revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai. Specifically, this verse is part of the detailed account of the making of the High Priest's breastplate, also known as the choshen mishpat (breastplate of judgment), which was first commanded and described in Exodus 28. The breastplate was designed to hold twelve precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, arranged in four rows of three. This particular verse completes the description of the stones, specifying the final three for the fourth and last row, echoing the initial instructions given in Exodus 28:19-20. The narrative here emphasizes the faithful execution of God's detailed commands, highlighting the Israelites' obedience and the meticulous craftsmanship involved in preparing a dwelling place for the Holy One.
Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, the Tabernacle served as the portable sanctuary, the dwelling place of God among His people, and the center of their worship. The High Priest, as the chief mediator between God and Israel, wore garments that were not only beautiful but also deeply symbolic. The breastplate, worn over the ephod, was perhaps the most significant piece, as it bore the names of all the tribes of Israel before the Lord, signifying the High Priest's role as their representative and intercessor. The use of precious stones like beryl, onyx, and jasper, set in gold, conveyed the immense value, holiness, and glory associated with God's presence and the sacred duties of the priesthood. Such materials were rare and costly, reflecting the divine majesty and the importance of the sacred space and its rituals. The meticulous attention to detail in their crafting, as seen in this verse, reflects a cultural understanding that divine service demanded the highest quality and absolute adherence to revealed patterns, ensuring the purity and acceptability of worship before a holy God.
Key Themes: The construction of the Tabernacle and its priestly garments, culminating in verses like Exodus 39:13, contributes to several overarching themes in Exodus and the Pentateuch. First, it underscores the theme of Divine Presence and Holiness. The Tabernacle was God's dwelling place, and every detail, from its structure to the priestly attire, was designed to reflect His transcendent holiness and to facilitate a holy people's approach to a holy God. Second, the meticulous obedience to God's precise instructions highlights the theme of Obedience and Covenant Faithfulness. The repeated phrase "as the Lord commanded Moses" (e.g., Exodus 39:1) emphasizes that Israel's blessing and continued relationship with God were contingent upon their faithful adherence to His revealed will. Finally, the breastplate, with its twelve stones, powerfully conveys the theme of Representation and Intercession. The High Priest carried the names of all Israel before God, symbolizing the constant intercession and remembrance of God's covenant people in His sight, a foreshadowing of the ultimate intercessory work of Christ as seen in Hebrews 7:25.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Fourth (Hebrew, rᵉbîyʻîy', H7243): From the root רָבַע (raba), meaning "to lie down" or "to be squared," this word signifies the ordinal number "fourth." In the context of the breastplate, it specifically denotes the final row of three stones, completing the twelve-stone arrangement. This numerical precision underscores the meticulous nature of God's instructions and the comprehensive representation of all twelve tribes of Israel.
Onyx (Hebrew, shôham', H7718): This term refers to a precious gem, often identified as onyx, characterized by its layered appearance, or possibly beryl due to its pale green color. While its exact mineralogical identification is debated, its significance lies in its inclusion on the breastplate as one of the twelve stones representing a tribe, and notably, it was also used for the two large stones on the ephod's shoulder pieces (Exodus 28:9-12), where the names of the tribes were engraved. Its presence signifies the weight and identity of Israel borne by the High Priest.
Inclosed (Hebrew, mûwçabbâh', H4142): This word, derived from a root meaning "to turn around" or "to encompass," describes the secure setting of the stones. It implies that the gems were firmly fixed within their golden frames, preventing them from falling out. This detail highlights the craftsmanship and the enduring nature of the representation of Israel before God, signifying that the tribes were perpetually held fast in God's sight and in the High Priest's intercession.

Verse Breakdown

"And the fourth row, a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper:" This clause specifies the final three stones that complete the twelve gems on the breastplate of judgment. Following the pattern of three stones per row, these are the tenth, eleventh, and twelfth stones, completing the representation of the twelve tribes of Israel. The listing of these specific stones—beryl (likely a topaz or chrysolite), onyx, and jasper—underscores the meticulous adherence to God's precise instructions given to Moses, demonstrating the exactness required in the construction of sacred objects for divine worship and the comprehensive inclusion of all the tribes.
"[they were] inclosed in ouches of gold in their inclosings." This phrase describes the method by which the precious stones were securely fastened to the breastplate. "Inclosed in ouches of gold" refers to the settings or bezels made of gold, which held each stone firmly in place. The Hebrew term for "ouches" (mishbᵉtsâh) suggests a reticulated or interwoven setting, indicating intricate craftsmanship. "In their inclosings" (milluʼâh) further emphasizes the secure and precise nature of these settings, literally "fillings" or "settings," ensuring that each valuable gem was not only prominently displayed but also permanently affixed. This detail highlights the divine value placed upon the people of Israel, who were to be perpetually borne before the Lord in beauty and security.

Literary Devices

Exodus 39:13, like much of the Tabernacle narrative, employs several literary devices to convey its theological significance and underscore the divine imperative of obedience. Repetition is a dominant feature throughout chapters 35-40, as the meticulous description of the breastplate's construction here mirrors the divine command given in Exodus 28, reinforcing the theme of faithful obedience and divine precision. The listing of the specific stones—beryl, onyx, and jasper—is a form of Enumeration, which serves to emphasize the exactness of God's instructions and the comprehensive nature of the representation of all twelve tribes. The breastplate itself functions as a powerful Symbolism, where the twelve stones collectively symbolize the entirety of the nation of Israel, each tribe uniquely represented before the Lord. The phrase "inclosed in ouches of gold in their inclosings" uses rich Imagery to paint a vivid picture of the secure and beautiful setting, conveying the preciousness of the stones and, by extension, the preciousness of God's people in His sight, held securely by divine design. The entire passage contributes to the overarching Thematic Development of God's holiness, His desire for ordered worship, and His covenant relationship with Israel.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Exodus 39:13, in its detailed description of the final stones on the High Priest's breastplate, powerfully reinforces several core theological truths. It speaks to God's nature as a God of order, beauty, and meticulous detail, demanding excellence and precision in all matters pertaining to His worship. The breastplate, bearing the names of the twelve tribes, served as a constant reminder of God's unwavering covenant commitment to His people, signifying that they were perpetually before His gaze and carried by their mediator. This act of "bearing their names" underscored the High Priest's intercessory role, representing the entire nation before a holy God and securing their access to His presence. The use of precious stones like beryl, onyx, and jasper, set in gold, also speaks to the inherent holiness and glory associated with God's presence and the sacred duties of those who served Him, emphasizing that what is dedicated to God should be of the highest quality and beauty, reflecting the divine glory it serves.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Exodus 39:13, though detailing ancient priestly garments, offers profound insights for contemporary believers. The meticulous precision with which God commanded the breastplate's construction, down to the specific stones and their settings, reminds us that God is a God of order and excellence. This calls us to consider the quality of our own worship and service: are we offering our best to God, or merely what is convenient or half-hearted? Just as the High Priest carried the names of the tribes before the Lord, we are called to bear one another's burdens and to intercede for fellow believers and the world around us, recognizing our shared identity in Christ and our priestly calling as believers (1 Peter 2:9). The beauty and value of the stones also reflect the inherent worth God places on His people. We are precious in His sight, not because of our own merit, but because of His covenant love and the redemptive work of Christ. This verse encourages us to live lives that reflect the beauty of God's holiness, striving for integrity, faithfulness, and excellence in all our endeavors, knowing that our service, however small, contributes to the larger tapestry of God's redemptive plan and brings Him glory.

Questions for Reflection

In what areas of my life might I be tempted to offer God less than my best, and how can I cultivate a spirit of excellence in all I do for Him?
How does the High Priest's role of bearing the tribes' names on his heart encourage me in my own responsibility to intercede for others and bear their burdens?
Considering the value God placed on the materials for His Tabernacle and priesthood, how does this inform my understanding of my own value and purpose as a follower of Christ, uniquely precious in His sight?

FAQ

What was the purpose of the breastplate of judgment, and why were these specific stones used?

Answer: The breastplate of judgment (choshen mishpat) was a sacred garment worn by the High Priest, designed to hold twelve precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Its primary purpose was to signify the High Priest's role as the representative and intercessor for all Israel before God. By bearing their names over his heart, he continually brought the people into God's presence, signifying their constant remembrance and inclusion in God's covenant. The specific stones, including beryl, onyx, and jasper mentioned in Exodus 39:13, were chosen according to divine command (see Exodus 28:17-20). While the exact symbolic meaning of each individual stone is not explicitly stated in the Old Testament, their collective beauty, rarity, and diversity underscored the glory of God, the preciousness of His covenant people, and the holiness required in His service. The breastplate also housed the Urim and Thummim, objects used for discerning God's will and judgment (see Exodus 28:30), which is why it was called the "breastplate of judgment."

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Exodus 39:13, in its meticulous description of the High Priest's breastplate, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The High Priest of the Old Covenant, bearing the names of the twelve tribes on his heart, served as a type and shadow of our Great High Priest, Jesus. While Aaron carried the names of a physical nation, Jesus, through His once-for-all sacrifice, bears the names of His spiritual Israel—all who believe in Him—not merely on a breastplate, but eternally on His heart before the Father. Hebrews 4:14-16 proclaims Jesus as our sympathetic High Priest who has passed through the heavens, interceding for us always. Just as the stones were "inclosed in ouches of gold," securely set and precious, so too are believers eternally secured in Christ, precious in God's sight, not through our own merit but through His perfect work and divine love. The beauty and radiance of the breastplate, adorned with precious gems, foreshadow the surpassing glory of Christ, who is the radiance of God's glory and the exact imprint of His nature (Hebrews 1:3). Through Him, we have confident access to the throne of grace (Hebrews 10:19-22), fulfilling the very purpose the Tabernacle and its priesthood pointed towards: intimate, unhindered communion between a holy God and His redeemed people.

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 39:13 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.