Exodus 39:19

Exodus 39:19 KJV: "And the fourth row, a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper: they were inclosed in ouches of gold in their inclosings."

Exodus 39:19 continues the highly detailed description of the construction of the High Priest's sacred garments, specifically focusing on the fourth and final row of precious stones on the breastplate of judgment (choshen mishpat). This verse highlights the beryl, onyx, and jasper, meticulously set in gold.

Context

This verse is part of the extensive narrative in Exodus (chapters 35-40) detailing the precise execution of God's commands for building the Tabernacle and crafting the priestly vestments. The High Priest's breastplate was a pivotal piece of attire, designed to hold twelve different stones, each engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This particular verse describes the stones for the last of the four rows, emphasizing the divine blueprint for every detail of the Tabernacle's furnishings and the garments for priestly service.

Key Themes

• Divine Meticulousness and Obedience: The exhaustive detail given for each stone and its setting underscores God's precise instructions and the Israelites' meticulous obedience. Every aspect of worship and service to God was to be done according to His revealed will.
• Representation of Israel: The twelve stones symbolized the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying that the High Priest bore the names and identity of God's people before Him. This act emphasized the priest's role as an intercessor and representative.
• Holiness and Beauty: The use of precious stones and gold highlights the sanctity and glory associated with the Tabernacle and its service. These materials were not merely decorative but conveyed the honor and reverence due to God.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew names for these stones are significant. "Beryl" (tarshish) is often associated with a yellowish-green or sea-green color. "Onyx" (shoham) is a dark, often striped stone, and "jasper" (yashepheh) typically refers to a variety of quartz, often red, brown, or green. The phrase "inclosed in ouches of gold in their inclosings" (mishbetsot zahab b'misgerotam) points to the intricate golden settings or filigree work that securely held each valuable stone in its place, demonstrating superior craftsmanship and reinforcing the value of the materials.

Practical Application

Exodus 39:19, though detailing ancient priestly garments, carries timeless lessons:

• Attention to Detail in Service: God cares about the specifics of our worship and service. While we are no longer under the Old Covenant law, the principle of offering our best and following God's revealed will with diligence remains.
• Christ, Our High Priest: The High Priest bearing the names of Israel before God beautifully foreshadows Christ, our great High Priest. He perfectly represents us before the Father, interceding on our behalf and bearing us on His heart.
• God's Order and Beauty: The meticulous design of the breastplate reflects God's character of order, beauty, and purpose. He is a God who orchestrates every detail, bringing glory to Himself through His creation and His redemptive plan.