Exodus 39:16

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

And they made {H6213} two {H8147} ouches {H4865} of gold {H2091}, and two {H8147} gold {H2091} rings {H2885}; and put {H5414} the two {H8147} rings {H2885} in the two {H8147} ends {H7098} of the breastplate {H2833}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Also for the breastplate they made two settings of gold and two gold rings, and they put the two rings at the two ends of the breastplate.

Berean Standard Bible

They also made two gold filigree settings and two gold rings, and fastened the two rings to the two corners of the breastpiece.

American Standard Version

And they made two settings of gold, and two gold rings, and put the two rings on the two ends of the breastplate.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 39:16 provides a precise account of the fabrication and placement of gold ouches and rings, critical components for securely attaching the high priest's breastplate. This verse, part of the detailed record of the Tabernacle's construction, underscores the divine mandate for meticulous craftsmanship and faithful adherence to God's intricate instructions, ensuring the proper function and symbolic integrity of the sacred priestly garments.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 39:16 is situated within the latter portion of the book of Exodus, specifically [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - Completion of the Tabernacle and Priestly Garments"), which serves as the fulfillment narrative for the divine commands given earlier regarding the Tabernacle and its sacred articles. This chapter meticulously details the actual construction of the high priest's garments, following the precise blueprint laid out in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Instructions for Priestly Garments"). The preceding verses in [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - Completion of the Tabernacle and Priestly Garments") describe the making of the ephod and the breastplate itself, while verse 16 focuses on the specific elements—the ouches and rings—that would enable the breastplate to be securely fastened to the ephod. This sequential, detailed reporting emphasizes the artisans' faithful execution of every divine instruction, reinforcing the theme of obedience that permeates the Tabernacle narrative.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Exodus 39 unfold in the wilderness, shortly after the Israelites' liberation from Egyptian bondage and the covenant establishment at Mount Sinai. This period was foundational for Israel's identity as a nation set apart by God, with the Tabernacle serving as the tangible representation of God's presence among His people. The use of precious materials like gold, fine linen, and skillfully crafted jewels for the priestly garments, as detailed in [Exodus 28:6-21](/exodus/28-6-21 "Exodus 28:6-21 - Description of the Ephod and Breastplate"), reflected the supreme sacredness of God's dwelling place and the ministry performed within it. In the ancient Near East, elaborate priestly attire was common, but Israel's garments were uniquely designed by divine command, setting them apart and emphasizing Yahweh's distinct holiness and His specific requirements for worship. The meticulous adherence to these specifications, as seen in [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - Completion of the Tabernacle and Priestly Garments"), was an act of profound obedience and worship, demonstrating Israel's commitment to the covenant and their understanding that God's presence demanded perfection in all aspects of service.

* **Key Themes:** Exodus 39:16 contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Mandate and Human Obedience**. The repeated phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses" throughout [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - Completion of the Tabernacle and Priestly Garments") underscores the artisans' faithful execution of God's precise instructions, demonstrating that true worship involves meticulous adherence to divine revelation. Secondly, the verse emphasizes the **Sacredness and Value of God's Presence**. The use of gold and intricate craftsmanship for even seemingly minor components like ouches and rings signifies the immense worth and holiness attributed to the Tabernacle and its associated ministry. This aligns with the broader theme of God's desire to dwell among His people, but on His own terms, as seen from [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God's Dwelling Among Israel") onward. Finally, the verse subtly points to the **Mediatorial Role of the Priesthood**. The secure attachment of the breastplate, which bore the names of the tribes, was essential for the high priest to effectively represent Israel before God, a symbolic act that is central to the priestly function described in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Instructions for Priestly Garments").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ouches (Hebrew, מִשְׁבְּצָה, _mishbᵉtsâh'_):** From an unused root meaning "to brocade," this term refers to a setting or mounting, specifically a reticulated (net-like or interwoven) setting for a gem. In this context, these were intricate gold frames or sockets designed to hold or connect other components. The use of "ouches" suggests a high level of artistic craftsmanship, indicating that these were not simple loops but elaborate, decorative, and functional mountings that would secure the breastplate to the ephod.
* **Rings (Hebrew, טַבַּעַת, _ṭabbaʻath'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to sink," this word primarily denotes a seal or signet (as sunk into wax), and by extension, any kind of ring. In Exodus 39:16, these gold rings were specific attachment points, designed to interlock with the gold chains that would connect the breastplate to the ephod. Their function was purely practical—to provide a secure and stable connection, ensuring the breastplate remained firmly in place during the high priest's movements.
* **Breastplate (Hebrew, חֹשֶׁן, _chôshen'_):** This term refers specifically to the high priest's gorget or breastplate. It is derived from a root likely meaning "to contain" or "to sparkle," possibly alluding to its function as a pouch holding the Urim and Thummim, or its rich adornment with precious gems. The _choshen_ was a pivotal piece of the high priest's vestments, bearing twelve engraved stones representing the tribes of Israel, and its secure attachment was vital for its symbolic and practical significance in the high priest's mediatorial role.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they made two ouches [of] gold":** This clause describes the initial act of creation by the divinely gifted artisans, Bezalel, Aholiab, and their assistants. The "ouches" were not merely functional but were crafted from pure gold, signifying their sacred purpose and the preciousness of the materials dedicated to God's service. The number "two" indicates a symmetrical design, likely for the upper corners of the breastplate.
* **"and two gold rings;":** Following the ouches, an additional two gold rings were fashioned. These rings, also made of gold, were distinct components but worked in conjunction with the ouches. Their purpose was to serve as direct attachment points for the gold chains that would ultimately secure the breastplate to the ephod, ensuring its stability during the high priest's ministry.
* **"and put the two rings in the two ends of the breastplate.":** This final action specifies the precise placement of the newly created gold rings. They were affixed to the "ends" of the breastplate, referring to its upper corners. This strategic placement was crucial for the breastplate to be properly suspended from the ephod's shoulder pieces, allowing it to rest securely over the high priest's heart, symbolizing his bearing of the tribes of Israel before the Lord.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 39:16, though a technical description, subtly employs several literary devices to convey its significance. **Precision** is paramount, evident in the exact enumeration ("two ouches," "two gold rings") and specific placement ("in the two ends of the breastplate"). This meticulous detail underscores the divine demand for absolute accuracy and excellence in the Tabernacle's construction, reflecting God's orderly nature. The **Repetition** of the word "gold" throughout the verse and the broader narrative highlights the preciousness and sacredness of the materials, reinforcing the idea that only the finest was suitable for God's dwelling and service. Furthermore, there is an underlying **Symbolism** at play. The gold itself symbolizes purity, divinity, and enduring value, while the breastplate, secured by these components, symbolizes the high priest bearing the twelve tribes of Israel before God, a representation of God's people held close to the mediating heart of their representative. The intricate details, even down to the rings and settings, contribute to the overall **Holistic Design** of the sacred space, where every minute part serves a larger theological purpose, pointing to the perfection required in approaching a holy God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 39:16, a seemingly minor detail in the grand scheme of the Tabernacle's construction, powerfully illustrates several profound theological themes. It speaks to God's demand for meticulous obedience and excellence in worship, demonstrating that every aspect of service to Him, no matter how minute, is significant. The divine blueprint for the Tabernacle and its furnishings was not merely a suggestion but a precise command, underscoring God's sovereignty and His right to dictate the terms of His encounter with humanity. The use of precious gold and intricate craftsmanship also highlights the sacredness and value God places on His dwelling place and the priestly ministry, reminding us that true worship involves offering our very best. The secure attachment of the breastplate, bearing the names of Israel, further emphasizes the high priest's role as a mediator, bearing the people before God, a theme that resonates deeply throughout redemptive history.

* [Exodus 25:9](/exodus/25-9 "Exodus 25:9 - Pattern for the Tabernacle")
* [Hebrews 8:5](/hebrews/8-5 "Hebrews 8:5 - Earthly Tabernacle a Copy of Heavenly Things")
* [1 Corinthians 10:31](/1_corinthians/10-31 "1 Corinthians 10:31 - Do All to the Glory of God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 39:16, with its focus on the precise construction of the breastplate's attachments, offers a profound lesson on the nature of our service and devotion to God. It reminds us that God is a God of order, beauty, and meticulous detail, and He expects no less than our best in all things, especially in matters pertaining to Him. Just as the smallest gold ring was essential for the proper functioning and symbolism of the high priest's garments, so too are the seemingly insignificant details of our lives and ministries important in God's eyes. Our faithfulness in the small things often reflects the depth of our reverence and obedience. This verse challenges us to consider whether our worship, our work, and our daily lives are characterized by the same level of care, precision, and dedication that God commanded for the Tabernacle. It calls us to move beyond mere functionality to embrace excellence, understanding that every act of service, no matter how small, contributes to the larger tapestry of God's redemptive plan and reflects His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or service do I tend to overlook "small" details, and how might this verse challenge me to approach them with greater precision and excellence?**
* **How does the meticulous craftsmanship described in Exodus 39:16 inform my understanding of God's character and His expectations for His people?**
* **Considering the symbolism of the breastplate, how can I, like the high priest, more intentionally "bear" others before God in prayer and intercession?**

### FAQ
**What are "ouches" in the context of the high priest's breastplate?**

Answer: In Exodus 39:16, "ouches" (from the Hebrew _mishbetsot_) refer to intricate gold settings or frames. These were not just simple rings but likely elaborate, woven, or interlaced gold mountings designed to securely hold other components or to serve as decorative points of attachment. For the breastplate, these ouches were crucial for connecting the breastplate to the ephod via gold chains, ensuring the entire sacred garment was properly assembled and worn by the high priest. They highlight the detailed and artistic craftsmanship involved in the Tabernacle's construction, as described throughout [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - Completion of the Tabernacle and Priestly Garments").

**Why was such precise detail necessary for the Tabernacle and priestly garments?**

Answer: The precise details for the Tabernacle and priestly garments, including the specific instructions for the ouches and rings in [Exodus 39:16](/exodus/39-16 "Exodus 39:16 - Construction of the Breastplate's Ouches and Rings"), were necessary for several reasons. Firstly, they underscored God's absolute holiness and sovereignty, dictating that His dwelling place and the means of approaching Him must conform exactly to His divine will. Secondly, the precision ensured the functional integrity of these sacred objects, which carried profound symbolic meaning. For instance, the breastplate, bearing the names of the tribes, needed to be securely worn as the high priest mediated for Israel. Thirdly, the meticulous instructions tested and demonstrated Israel's obedience and reverence for God, teaching them the importance of faithful adherence to His commands, as seen in the repeated phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses" throughout [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - Completion of the Tabernacle and Priestly Garments").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 39:16, with its focus on the meticulous construction and secure attachment of the high priest's breastplate, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The breastplate, bearing the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, symbolized the high priest carrying God's people on his heart before the Lord, interceding on their behalf. This foreshadows Jesus, our Great High Priest, who not only bears His people on His heart but perfectly represents them before God. Unlike the Levitical priests, who ministered in an earthly tabernacle and offered repeated sacrifices (as discussed in [Hebrews 9:1-10](/hebrews/9-1-10 "Hebrews 9:1-10 - Earthly Sanctuary and its Services")), Christ entered the true, heavenly sanctuary once for all, offering Himself as the perfect and final sacrifice for sins ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). The secure attachment of the breastplate, ensuring it would not be dislodged, speaks to the unwavering efficacy of Christ's mediatorial work. He is eternally able to save those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Priesthood and Intercession")). Every intricate detail of the Tabernacle, including the ouches and rings of the breastplate, pointed to the flawless and comprehensive work of Christ, who perfectly fulfills every requirement of God's holiness and brings His people into an unbreakable covenant relationship with the Father, ensuring their secure standing before God.

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

Exodus 25:12

And thou shalt cast four rings of gold for it, and put [them] in the four corners thereof; and two rings [shall be] in the one side of it, and two rings in the other side of it.