Exodus 39:18
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.
And the two {H8147} ends {H7098} of the two {H8147} wreathen {H5688} chains {H5688} they fastened {H5414} in the two {H8147} ouches {H4865}, and put {H5414} them on the shoulderpieces {H3802} of the ephod {H646}, before {H6440} it {H4136}.
and attached the other two ends of the twisted chains to the front of the shoulder-pieces of the ritual vest.
and they fastened the other ends of the two chains to the two filigree settings, attaching them to the shoulder pieces of the ephod at the front.
And the other two ends of the two wreathen chains they put on the two settings, and put them on the shoulder-pieces of the ephod, in the forepart thereof.
Cross-References
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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. -
Song Of Solomon 1:10
Thy cheeks are comely with rows [of jewels], thy neck with chains [of gold].
Commentary
Exodus 39:18 KJV continues the detailed account of the construction of the priestly garments for Aaron, the High Priest, specifically focusing on the elaborate ephod and its attachment points.
Context of Exodus 39:18
This verse is part of the final chapters of Exodus, which describe the actual construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, along with the priestly vestments, according to the precise instructions given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. Chapter 39 specifically details the making of the ephod, the breastplate, the robe, and other garments for the High Priest and the priests. Verse 18 explains how the two "wreathen chains" of pure gold, which were attached to the breastplate, were fastened into the "ouches" (gold settings or clasps) that rested on the shoulderpieces of the ephod. This intricate design ensured the breastplate, with its twelve precious stones representing the tribes of Israel, remained securely in place over the High Priest's heart, connecting him to the names inscribed on the shoulder stones.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The term "wreathen chains" (Hebrew: sharashoth gavluth) refers to chains that were twisted or braided, indicating fine craftsmanship and durability. These were not simple links but intricately woven gold strands, reflecting the value and sacredness of the garment. The "ouches" (Hebrew: mishbetzoth) were likely decorative settings, perhaps rosettes or clasps, designed to hold the chains securely and elegantly on the shoulderpieces, where the onyx stones bearing the names of the tribes of Israel were fixed (Exodus 28:12).
Related Scriptures
The instructions for these specific chains, ouches, and their placement are first given in Exodus 28:13-14 and Exodus 28:25. The entire process of making the priestly garments is detailed in Exodus chapter 28. The High Priest's role as a mediator and bearer of the people before God foreshadows the ultimate work of Jesus Christ, our Great High Priest, who intercedes for us in heaven (Hebrews 7:25).
Practical Application
Exodus 39:18, like much of the Tabernacle account, reminds us that God is a God of order and beauty who deserves our best in worship and service. The intricate design of the High Priest's garments, down to the fastening of chains, speaks to the divine attention to detail. For believers today, this can inspire us to approach our spiritual lives with intentionality, understanding that God cares about the "how" as much as the "what." Furthermore, seeing the High Priest bearing the names of Israel before God should deepen our appreciation for Christ's perfect and eternal redemption, as He continually represents us before the Father.
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