Exodus 39:17

KJV

And they put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings on the ends of the breastplate.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they put {H5414} the two {H8147} wreathen chains {H5688} of gold {H2091} in the two {H8147} rings {H2885} on the ends {H7098} of the breastplate {H2833}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They put the two twisted gold chains in the two rings at the ends of the breastplate

Berean Standard Bible

Then they fastened the two gold chains to the two gold rings at the corners of the breastpiece,

American Standard Version

And they put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings at the ends of the breastplate.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 39:17 meticulously details the placement of two wreathen, or intricately braided, chains of pure gold into rings on the breastplate, a crucial component of the high priestly garments. This verse highlights the precise execution of God's divine instructions for the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, underscoring the value, purity, and functional integrity required for items used in the worship of a holy God. It serves as a testament to the craftsmen's faithfulness in replicating the heavenly pattern revealed to Moses, ensuring the breastplate, symbolic of Israel's representation before God, was securely fastened for the high priest's ministry.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 39 is part of a larger section (chapters 35-40) that describes the actual construction and erection of the Tabernacle and its sacred objects, including the priestly garments. This chapter specifically recounts the making of the ephod and the breastplate, meticulously following the divine blueprint given earlier in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Instructions for Priestly Garments"). Verse 17, therefore, is a fulfillment statement, detailing a specific step in the assembly of the breastplate, which was designed to be worn over the ephod. It echoes the initial command for these chains found in [Exodus 28:22-25](/exodus/28-22 "Exodus 28:22-25 - Instructions for the Breastplate Chains"), demonstrating the Israelites' faithful adherence to every command, no matter how small, in the construction of God's dwelling place. The surrounding verses describe the completion of the breastplate itself, its settings for the twelve tribal stones, and its overall integration into the high priest's attire.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Tabernacle and its priestly garments occurred during Israel's wilderness wanderings, a foundational period for their national and religious identity. God's commands for the Tabernacle, detailed from [Exodus 25](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle") onward, established a portable sanctuary where He would dwell among His people. The high priest, uniquely chosen from the tribe of Levi, served as the primary mediator between God and Israel. His garments were not merely ceremonial attire but were imbued with profound theological significance, symbolizing holiness, representation, and the gravity of his office. The use of pure gold, intricate craftsmanship, and precious stones reflected the immense value and sacredness attributed to God's presence and the act of worship in ancient Near Eastern cultures, where temples and their rituals were central to society. The meticulous nature of these instructions emphasized God's demand for perfection and order in approaching His holy presence, setting Israel apart from surrounding pagan practices.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wreathen (Hebrew, שָׂרִיג _sarig_):** This term denotes something twisted, braided, or interwoven. Its use here emphasizes the intricate and skilled craftsmanship involved in making these gold chains. It implies not merely a simple chain, but one formed by meticulously twisting strands of pure gold together, signifying both beauty and strength. This level of detail highlights the divine demand for excellence and the preciousness of the materials used in God's service.
* **Chains (Hebrew, שַׁרְשְׁרֹת _sharsherot_):** Referring to links or chains, this word, in conjunction with "wreathen," reinforces the idea of a strong, durable, and interconnected structure. These were not flimsy adornments but functional components designed to securely hold the breastplate in place. The material—pure gold—underscores the chains' value, purity, and symbolic connection to the divine.
* **Breastplate (Hebrew, חֹשֶׁן _choshen_):** More than just an ornament, the breastplate was specifically called the "breastplate of judgment" ([Exodus 28:15](/exodus/28-15 "Exodus 28:15 - The Breastplate of Judgment")). It held twelve precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the tribes of Israel, signifying the high priest's role in carrying the people before God in judgment and intercession. The chains were essential for its proper and secure positioning over the high priest's heart.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they put the two wreathen chains of gold":** This phrase refers to the skilled artisans, led by Bezalel and Oholiab, who were divinely gifted for the task of constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings ([Exodus 31:1-6](/exodus/31-1 "Exodus 31:1-6 - Bezalel and Oholiab Appointed")). The "two wreathen chains of gold" were crafted with exceptional skill, reflecting the purity and preciousness commanded by God. Their twisted nature ensured strength and durability, vital for securing such a significant piece of the high priest's attire.
* **"in the two rings":** These rings were specifically designed and attached to the upper corners of the breastplate itself ([Exodus 28:23](/exodus/28-23 "Exodus 28:23 - Rings for the Breastplate")). Their purpose was to provide a secure anchor point for the gold chains, demonstrating the meticulous and integrated design of the entire priestly vestment. Every component had a precise function, ensuring the breastplate's stability.
* **"on the ends of the breastplate":** This specifies the exact location of the rings and the attachment of the chains—at the extremities or corners of the breastplate. These chains would then connect the breastplate to the ephod's shoulder pieces, ensuring that the breastplate, with the names of the twelve tribes, remained securely positioned over the high priest's heart as he ministered before the Lord in the Tabernacle. This secure attachment underscored the constant representation of Israel before God.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several literary devices to convey its profound theological meaning. **Repetition** is prominent throughout Exodus, particularly in the detailed recounting of the Tabernacle's construction after its initial instructions. This serves to emphasize the absolute importance of precise obedience to God's commands, highlighting His divine authority and the sacredness of His dwelling. **Symbolism** is pervasive; the gold itself symbolizes purity, divinity, and immense value, while the "wreathen chains" symbolize strength, intricate divine design, and the secure connection between the high priest and the people he represents. The breastplate, which these chains secured, is a powerful symbol of intercession and the carrying of God's people before Him. Furthermore, the meticulous detail in this verse, focusing on a seemingly minor component like chains and rings, employs **metonymy** or **synecdoche**, where a part (the chains) stands for the whole (the divinely ordained system of worship and priesthood), underscoring the idea that every detail, no matter how small, is significant in God's grand design.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 39:17, though a seemingly minor detail, is rich with theological significance. It speaks to God's absolute demand for precision and holiness in worship, where every component of the Tabernacle and priestly garments was divinely designed and perfectly executed. This meticulousness reflects God's own character—orderly, holy, and sovereign. The secure attachment of the breastplate, bearing the names of the tribes, to the high priest's heart signifies God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people, who were constantly before Him through their representative. It underscores the theme of intercession and the vital role of a mediator in bridging the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity, a concept that finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ.

* [Exodus 28:29](/exodus/28-29 "Exodus 28:29 - Aaron to Bear the Names of Israel")
* [Leviticus 8:8](/leviticus/8-8 "Leviticus 8:8 - Moses Puts the Breastplate on Aaron")
* [Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Intercession")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The intricate details of Exodus 39:17 invite us to ponder the profound truth that God cares about every aspect of our lives and our worship. If He commanded such precision for an earthly sanctuary and its garments, how much more does He desire our wholehearted devotion, attention to truth, and integrity in our spiritual walk? This verse reminds us that our connection to God, though now direct through Christ, is still meant to be secure and intentional, not haphazard. Just as the chains ensured the breastplate remained firmly in place, our faith should be anchored securely to the unshakeable truth of God's Word and the finished work of Christ. It challenges us to consider the "small details" of our obedience, recognizing that faithfulness in little things often reflects the depth of our reverence for a God who is Himself meticulous and perfect in all His ways.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does God's demand for such meticulous detail in the Tabernacle's construction reveal about His character and His expectations for worship?**
* **How does the secure attachment of the breastplate, with the names of Israel, to the high priest's heart encourage us regarding God's care for His people?**
* **In what "small details" of your own life or worship might God be calling you to greater precision, intentionality, or faithfulness?**

### FAQ
**Why were the chains made of pure gold, and what is the significance of "wreathen"?**

Answer: The chains were made of pure gold to signify the immense value, purity, and divine origin of the priestly garments and everything associated with God's presence. Gold, being a precious and incorruptible metal, symbolized holiness and the divine nature. The term "wreathen" (Hebrew: _sarig_) indicates that the gold was intricately twisted or braided. This was not merely for aesthetic appeal but also for strength and durability. It highlights the meticulous craftsmanship required by God's commands, ensuring that the breastplate, which bore the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, was securely and permanently attached to the high priest, symbolizing the enduring and precious connection between God and His people. It underscores that God's design is perfect in both form and function, as seen in the detailed instructions given in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Instructions for Priestly Garments").

**What was the primary purpose of the breastplate, and how did these chains contribute to it?**

Answer: The primary purpose of the breastplate, often called the "breastplate of judgment," was to bear the names of the twelve tribes of Israel on twelve precious stones, placed over the high priest's heart as he ministered before the Lord ([Exodus 28:29](/exodus/28-29 "Exodus 28:29 - Aaron to Bear the Names of Israel")). This symbolized the high priest's role as the representative and intercessor for all Israel before God. The chains described in [Exodus 39:17](/exodus/39-17 "Exodus 39:17 - The Wreathen Chains on the Breastplate") were crucial for its secure attachment. They connected the breastplate to the ephod's shoulder pieces, ensuring it remained firmly in place over the priest's heart. Without these chains, the breastplate would not have been properly positioned, hindering its symbolic function of constantly presenting the people before God. Thus, the chains were integral to the breastplate's ability to fulfill its divine purpose.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 39:17, with its focus on the secure attachment of the breastplate to the high priest's garments, beautifully foreshadows the perfect and permanent work of Jesus Christ, our ultimate High Priest. Just as the wreathen gold chains ensured the breastplate, bearing the names of Israel, was held securely over Aaron's heart, so too does Christ, our great High Priest, bear His people on His heart, continually interceding for us before the Father. His priesthood is not temporary or dependent on physical garments, but is eternal and unchangeable ([Hebrews 7:24](/hebrews/7-24 "Hebrews 7:24 - Christ's Unchanging Priesthood")). The meticulous craftsmanship of the gold chains speaks to the divine perfection of Christ's sacrifice and His ongoing ministry; every detail of His redemptive work is flawless and complete. Through His once-for-all sacrifice, He has entered the true heavenly sanctuary ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Entry into the Heavenly Sanctuary")), securing our access to God. We, the spiritual Israel, are eternally held fast by Him, not by physical chains, but by the unbreakable bond of His covenant love and His perfect mediation, ensuring our constant presence before the throne of grace ([Hebrews 4:14-16](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14-16 - Christ Our High Priest")).

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.