Exodus 39:15

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

And they made {H6213} upon the breastplate {H2833} chains {H8333} at the ends {H1383}, of wreathen {H5688} work {H4639} of pure {H2889} gold {H2091}.

Complete Jewish Bible

On the breastplate they made two pure gold chains, twisted like cords.

Berean Standard Bible

For the breastpiece they made braided chains like cords of pure gold.

American Standard Version

And they made upon the breastplate chains like cords, of wreathen work of pure gold.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 39:15 meticulously details the craftsmanship of the high priest's breastplate, specifically focusing on the intricate chains made of pure, wreathen gold. This verse highlights the divine imperative for precision, excellence, and unblemished quality in all elements of the Tabernacle and priestly service, underscoring the sacredness and symbolic integrity required for approaching a holy God. It serves as a testament to the faithful and divinely enabled execution of God's exact specifications by the Israelite craftsmen, ensuring the proper function and profound theological significance of this vital priestly garment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 39:15 is situated within the latter half of the book of Exodus, specifically in the detailed account of the Tabernacle's construction and the priestly garments (chapters 36-39). This section serves as the direct fulfillment and faithful execution of the divine commands given earlier on Mount Sinai, particularly those found in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Instructions for Priestly Garments") concerning the high priest's attire. The preceding verses in [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - Construction of Priestly Garments") describe the making of the ephod and the breastplate itself, including the setting of the precious stones. The subsequent verses detail the final attachment of the breastplate to the ephod and the completion of all priestly vestments, culminating in Moses' inspection and blessing in [Exodus 39:43](/exodus/39-43 "Exodus 39:43 - Moses' Approval"). The meticulous repetition of instructions—first commanded, then executed—emphasizes God's absolute precision, the importance of obedience, and the faithfulness of the Israelite community in constructing every component according to the heavenly pattern.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At this pivotal moment in Israel's history, the nation had recently been liberated from Egyptian bondage and entered into a profound covenant relationship with Yahweh at Mount Sinai. The construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, including the priestly garments, was central to establishing a tangible dwelling place for God among His people and defining the divinely ordained means by which they could approach Him. While the use of precious materials like pure gold, fine linen, and skilled craftsmanship was common in ancient Near Eastern temples and royal regalia, signifying immense value and sacredness, Israel's worship was distinct. Unlike pagan practices, Israel's monotheistic worship was strictly governed by divine revelation, with every detail serving a specific theological purpose rather than mere aesthetic display or idolatry. The high priest, bearing the breastplate with the names of the twelve tribes, acted as the representative of the entire nation before God, making the integrity, security, and symbolic purity of his garments paramount for their intercession and the nation's spiritual well-being.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes found throughout Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Specificity and Holiness**, demonstrating God's meticulous attention to detail and His demand for absolute purity and excellence in all matters pertaining to His worship and presence. The emphasis on "pure gold" and "wreathen work" highlights the sacredness of the Tabernacle and its service, reflecting the unblemished character of God Himself (cf. [Leviticus 19:2](/leviticus/19-2 "Leviticus 19:2 - Be Holy")). Secondly, it exemplifies **Human Obedience and Divine Enablement**. The detailed execution of the commands, as seen in this chapter, showcases the Israelites' faithful response to God's instructions, made possible by the divine gifting of craftsmen like Bezaleel and Oholiab (cf. [Exodus 31:1-6](/exodus/31-1-6 "Exodus 31:1-6 - Bezaleel and Oholiab Appointed")). Finally, the functional purpose of the chains—securing the breastplate—contributes to the theme of **Representation and Intercession**, illustrating the high priest's role in bearing the names of the tribes before the Lord, a secure and enduring connection between God and His people (cf. [Exodus 28:29](/exodus/28-29 "Exodus 28:29 - Names on the Breastplate")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wreathen (Hebrew, _ʻăbôth'_):** From H5688, this word describes something "intwined," "twisted," or "braided." It refers to a string, wreath, or cord. In the context of "wreathen work" (which includes H4639 `maʻăseh`, meaning "work" or "product"), it denotes an intricate and highly skilled form of craftsmanship where strands of gold were meticulously twisted or plaited together to form chains. This detail emphasizes the divine expectation for excellence, artistry, and beauty in all things dedicated to God's service, reflecting the glory and perfection of the One being served.
* **Pure (Hebrew, _ṭâhôwr'_):** From H2889, this adjective means "pure" in a physical, chemical, ceremonial, or moral sense. Its application to gold signifies an unblemished, unalloyed quality. In biblical symbolism, purity is intrinsically linked to holiness and separation unto God. The requirement for pure gold underscores the absolute holiness required in God's presence and the unblemished character of the high priest's mediatorial role. It reflects the unadulterated truth and holiness of God Himself, allowing no compromise or imperfection in His sacred dwelling or service.
* **Gold (Hebrew, _zâhâb'_):** From H2091, this noun refers to the precious metal, gold. Figuratively, it can also refer to something gold-colored. In the context of the Tabernacle and priestly garments, gold consistently symbolizes divinity, glory, royalty, and immense value. Its incorruptible nature speaks to the enduring quality of God's covenant and promises. The use of "pure gold" for these chains, along with other Tabernacle elements, communicates the preciousness and divine origin of the sacred service and the unquantifiable worth of God's presence among His people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they made upon the breastplate chains at the ends,"**: This clause specifies the precise location and initial purpose of the chains. They were crafted and affixed "upon the breastplate," indicating their direct connection to this central and most significant piece of the high priest's attire. The phrase "at the ends" refers to the upper corners or extremities of the breastplate, where these chains would be attached to gold rings. This highlights the functional necessity of these chains in securely connecting the breastplate to the ephod, ensuring it remained properly positioned over the high priest's heart, bearing the names of the tribes before the Lord.
* **"[of] wreathen work"**: This phrase describes the specific, intricate method of construction employed for these chains. As elaborated in the key word analysis, "wreathen work" indicates that the chains were not simply fashioned from basic links but were intricately twisted or braided from strands of gold. This detail underscores the exceptional skill and artistry employed by the craftsmen, particularly Bezaleel and Oholiab, who were divinely gifted for this precise and beautiful work. It speaks to the meticulous attention to detail and the high standard of craftsmanship required in all aspects of worship and service to God.
* **"[of] pure gold."**: This final phrase specifies the material used for these intricately crafted chains. The consistent use of "pure gold" throughout the Tabernacle's construction reinforces the overarching theme of holiness, value, and divine glory. It signifies that only the finest, unblemished, and unalloyed material was acceptable for sacred use, reflecting the perfection and purity of God Himself. The choice of material also speaks to the enduring nature of God's covenant and the preciousness of the high priest's intercessory role, emphasizing that God's dwelling place and the means of approaching Him must be of the highest, uncorrupted quality.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. **Repetition** is a dominant feature, as the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle and its components, including the priestly garments, are first given by God (e.g., [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Instructions for Priestly Garments")) and then meticulously recounted as they are executed (e.g., [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - Construction of Priestly Garments")). This repetition serves to emphasize divine precision, the paramount importance of obedience, and the faithfulness of the Israelite craftsmen in fulfilling God's commands. **Symbolism** is also central to the text, with "pure gold" representing divinity, glory, and holiness, while the "wreathen work" symbolizes the intricate, divinely-inspired craftsmanship and the excellence required in God's service. The breastplate itself, secured by these chains, is a powerful symbol of the high priest bearing the tribes of Israel before God's presence, signifying representation and intercession. The detailed description of even seemingly minor components like chains highlights the concept of **holistic design**, where every part, no matter how small, contributes to the overall sacred purpose and integrity of the Tabernacle and its worship, reflecting God's comprehensive and perfect plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 39:15, though describing a minute detail of the priestly garments, resonates with profound theological themes. It underscores God's meticulous nature and His demand for absolute precision and excellence in all matters pertaining to His worship. The use of "pure gold" for the "wreathen work" chains signifies the inherent holiness and perfection required in approaching a holy God. This passage also highlights the principle of divine enablement, as the craftsmen like Bezaleel and Oholiab were specifically gifted by the Spirit for such intricate work, demonstrating that God equips those He calls to serve Him with the necessary skills and wisdom. Furthermore, the functional role of the chains—securing the breastplate—symbolizes the secure and unbreakable connection between God and His people, represented by the high priest bearing their names before the divine presence. This secure attachment speaks to the reliability of God's covenant and His unwavering commitment to His people, even in their imperfection.

* [Exodus 28:22-28](/exodus/28-22-28 "Exodus 28:22-28 - Chains for the Breastplate")
* [Hebrews 8:5](/hebrews/8-5 "Hebrews 8:5 - Heavenly Pattern for Earthly Worship")
* [Colossians 3:23-24](/colossians/3-23-24 "Colossians 3:23-24 - Working Heartily for the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The intricate details of Exodus 39:15 invite us to consider the profound implications of God's character and our response to Him. Just as God meticulously designed every element of the Tabernacle and priestly garments, down to the "wreathen work" of the chains, He also cares deeply about the details of our lives and our service. This verse challenges us to move beyond superficiality in our faith, encouraging us to offer God our very best, not just in grand gestures but in the seemingly small, "wreathen" details of our obedience and devotion. The "pure gold" reminds us that our worship and service should be unadulterated, free from compromise, and offered with a heart of genuine holiness and integrity. It also speaks to the interconnectedness of our spiritual lives – just as the chains secured the breastplate to the ephod, our various acts of faith, worship, and service are meant to be securely connected, forming a cohesive and purposeful life dedicated to God. This passage encourages us to pursue excellence in all we do, knowing that our ultimate audience is the perfect and holy God, who sees and values every detail.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or service do I tend to overlook "small" details, and how might this passage encourage greater precision and excellence in my daily walk with God?**
* **What does "pure gold" service look like in my daily life, and how can I ensure my motives and actions are unadulterated and offered with integrity before God?**
* **How do the various aspects of my faith and spiritual disciplines connect and work together, much like the breastplate and ephod were securely joined by chains, to form a cohesive life of worship?**

### FAQ
**What was the purpose of the chains mentioned in Exodus 39:15?**

Answer: The chains described in [Exodus 39:15](/exodus/39-15 "Exodus 39:15 - Chains for the Breastplate") were essential for securely attaching the breastplate to the ephod, which was the high priest's primary outer garment. Specifically, these chains, made of pure gold, were fastened to gold rings on the upper corners of the breastplate and then connected to the shoulder pieces of the ephod. This ensured the breastplate remained firmly in place over the high priest's heart. This secure attachment was crucial because the breastplate bore the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, symbolizing the high priest's role in bearing the people before God in intercession. The stability also ensured that the Urim and Thummim, contained within the breastplate, could be properly utilized for divine revelation, as instructed in [Exodus 28:30](/exodus/28-30 "Exodus 28:30 - Urim and Thummim").

**Why was "pure gold" specified for these chains and other Tabernacle items?**

Answer: The consistent use of "pure gold" for the chains and many other components of the Tabernacle and priestly garments (e.g., the Ark of the Covenant in [Exodus 25:11](/exodus/25-11 "Exodus 25:11 - Ark of the Covenant") and the menorah in [Exodus 25:31](/exodus/25-31 "Exodus 25:31 - The Golden Lampstand")) was highly symbolic. Gold, being a precious, incorruptible, and lustrous metal, represented divinity, glory, holiness, and purity. Its unblemished nature underscored the absolute perfection and holiness of God, and the sacredness required in His presence. It also symbolized the immense value God placed on His dwelling place and the worship offered there, indicating that only the very best was suitable for His service. Furthermore, the purity of the material reflected the unadulterated truth and spiritual integrity that God demanded from His people and their mediators, emphasizing that God's presence is holy and requires a holy approach.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 39:15, with its focus on the intricate, pure gold chains securing the high priest's breastplate, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament high priest, bearing the names of Israel on his heart and serving as a mediator, foreshadowed Christ, our perfect [Great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Our Great High Priest"). Just as the chains ensured the breastplate was securely fastened and always before the Lord, Christ perfectly and eternally secures His people to God. He is the ultimate "wreathen work" of divine craftsmanship, meticulously woven into the fabric of human history through the incarnation (cf. [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), yet entirely "pure gold"—sinless, divine, and unblemished, truly the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). Through His perfect, once-for-all sacrifice (cf. [Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Sacrifice")), Jesus bears His people, His new Israel, not merely on a breastplate, but eternally on His heart before the Father. The secure attachment of the breastplate to the ephod, enabling the high priest to minister, points to Christ's seamless union of humanity and divinity, allowing Him to perfectly mediate between God and humanity. His work is of ultimate purity and enduring value, establishing a new covenant where we have [bold access to the throne of grace](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Access to Grace") through Him, our perfect and eternal High Priest, who ever lives to make intercession for us (cf. [Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Priesthood")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 10:28

And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any [man] pluck them out of my hand.

Song Of Solomon 1:10

Thy cheeks are comely with rows [of jewels], thy neck with chains [of gold].

Exodus 28:14

And two chains [of] pure gold at the ends; [of] wreathen work shalt thou make them, and fasten the wreathen chains to the ouches.

2 Chronicles 3:5

And the greater house he cieled with fir tree, which he overlaid with fine gold, and set thereon palm trees and chains.

John 17:12

While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.

1 Peter 1:5

Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

Jude 1:1

¶ Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, [and] called: