Exodus 39:7

KJV

And he put them on the shoulders of the ephod, [that they should be] stones for a memorial to the children of Israel; as the LORD commanded Moses.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he put {H7760} them on the shoulders {H3802} of the ephod {H646}, that they should be stones {H68} for a memorial {H2146} to the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478}; as the LORD {H3068} commanded {H6680} Moses {H4872}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then he put them on the shoulder-pieces of the vest to be stones calling to mind the sons of Isra'el, as ADONAI had ordered Moshe.

Berean Standard Bible

Then they fastened them on the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones for the sons of Israel, as the LORD had commanded Moses.

American Standard Version

And he put them on the shoulder-pieces of the ephod, to be stones of memorial for the children of Israel; as Jehovah commanded Moses.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 39:7 meticulously details the final placement of the two engraved onyx stones onto the shoulders of the High Priest's ephod, a pivotal moment in the completion of the sacred Tabernacle garments. This verse underscores the precise fulfillment of God's divine instructions given to Moses, ensuring these stones, bearing the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, would serve as a perpetual reminder of God's covenant people before Him, symbolizing both their representation and remembrance within the sacred worship space.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 39:7 is situated within the concluding section of the book of Exodus, specifically in the detailed account of the Tabernacle's construction and the crafting of the priestly garments (Exodus 35-40). This chapter meticulously describes the actual fabrication of the vestments, including the ephod, breastplate, and other items, fulfilling the precise divine blueprints previously revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai in [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25-31 - Tabernacle Blueprints"). The repeated phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses" (e.g., [Exodus 39:1](/exodus/39-1 "Exodus 39:1 - Garments made as commanded"), [Exodus 39:5](/exodus/39-5 "Exodus 39:5 - Ephod made as commanded"), [Exodus 39:32](/exodus/39-32 "Exodus 39:32 - Tabernacle completion as commanded")) functions as a literary refrain, emphasizing the absolute fidelity of the craftsmen, Bezaleel and Aholiab, to every divine instruction. Verse 7 specifically refers back to the initial command for these onyx stones found in [Exodus 28:9-12](/exodus/28-9-12 "Exodus 28:9-12 - Command for the Onyx Stones"), highlighting the completion of that specific directive.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Tabernacle and its priestly vestments occurred during Israel's wilderness wanderings, a pivotal period following their liberation from Egyptian slavery, as detailed in [Exodus 12](/exodus/12 "Exodus 12 - The Passover and Exodus"). This era was foundational for establishing Israel's identity as God's covenant people, distinct from the surrounding pagan nations. The Tabernacle served as God's dwelling place among His people, a portable sanctuary that symbolized His presence and accessibility. In the ancient Near East, priests often wore distinctive garments, but Israel's priestly attire, particularly the ephod with its engraved stones, was unique in its explicit representation of the entire nation before their God. The concept of a "memorial" (Hebrew: *zikkaron*) was common, often involving physical objects or rituals designed to bring something to remembrance before a deity or to serve as a reminder for the people, as seen in the [Passover Seder](/exodus/12 "Exodus 12 - The Passover Seder"). The meticulous detail in the construction, "as the LORD commanded Moses," also reflects the ancient understanding of divine mandates, where precise execution was paramount to ensure divine favor and proper worship.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 39:7 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of **Divine Instruction and Human Obedience**, as the repeated phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses" underscores the absolute necessity of faithful adherence to God's revealed will in all matters of worship and service. The placement of the stones also highlights **Representation and Intercession**, with the High Priest bearing the names of the tribes before God, symbolizing his role as the mediator for the entire nation. This act further reinforces the theme of **Divine Remembrance and Covenant Faithfulness**, assuring Israel that they are perpetually in God's thoughts and presence. Finally, the meticulous crafting of the sacred objects, including the ephod, emphasizes the **Holiness and Sanctity** of God's dwelling place and the worship conducted therein, setting Israel apart as a consecrated people. These themes are central to understanding Israel's identity and their relationship with Yahweh, as established through the [Sinai Covenant](/exodus/19 "Exodus 19 - The Sinai Covenant").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Memorial (Hebrew, _zikrôwn'_):** This term (H2146) signifies more than a passive remembrance; it denotes an active bringing to mind, a calling to attention, or a reminder. In this context, the stones served as a constant "reminder" to God of His covenant people, the children of Israel, and simultaneously as a perpetual "remembrance" for the Israelites themselves of their unity and identity before God. It implies God's active engagement with His people based on His covenant promises, ensuring their presence is continually acknowledged in the divine sphere.
* **Shoulders (Hebrew, _kâthêph'_):** The Hebrew word (H3802) refers to the upper end of the arm, where garments hang, and figuratively, a side-piece or lateral projection. In ancient cultures, the shoulders were often associated with strength, authority, and the bearing of burdens or responsibilities. The placement of the engraved stones on the High Priest's shoulders symbolically indicates that he bore the weight, identity, and representation of the entire nation of Israel when he entered God's presence, underscoring his crucial intercessory role.
* **Commanded (Hebrew, _tsâvâh'_):** This primitive root (H6680) means to constitute or enjoin, emphasizing the divine origin and authoritative nature of the instructions. It highlights God's sovereignty and the absolute necessity of precise obedience in the construction of the Tabernacle and its elements. The repeated use of this word throughout Exodus 35-40 underscores the theological principle that true worship and service must align perfectly with God's revealed will, not human ingenuity or preference, thereby validating the entire sacred enterprise.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he put them on the shoulders of the ephod":** This phrase describes the physical placement of the two onyx stones. The "ephod" was a sleeveless garment, somewhat like an apron, worn by the High Priest. The shoulders were a place of strength and carrying burdens, symbolically indicating that the High Priest bore the weight and representation of the entire nation. This act completed a crucial step in the assembly of the High Priest's sacred attire, preparing him for his divinely appointed duties.
* **"[that they should be] stones for a memorial to the children of Israel":** The purpose of the stones is explicitly stated. Each stone was engraved with the names of six of the twelve tribes of Israel (as per [Exodus 28:9-12](/exodus/28-9-12 "Exodus 28:9-12 - Engraving of the Names")). The phrase "for a memorial" (Hebrew: *zikkaron*) means they were to serve as a constant reminder, both for God to remember His covenant people and for the people to remember their collective identity and their relationship with God. This signifies God's unwavering remembrance of His people in His presence, ensuring their constant acknowledgment.
* **"as the LORD commanded Moses":** This concluding phrase, a recurring motif throughout the Tabernacle construction narrative, serves as an emphatic affirmation of divine authority and human obedience. It stresses that every detail, from the engraving of the names to the precise placement of the stones, was executed in exact accordance with God's specific instructions given to Moses. This reinforces the sanctity and divine origin of the Tabernacle and its service, emphasizing that worship must be performed precisely as God dictates, leaving no room for human improvisation.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 39:7 employs several significant literary devices. **Symbolism** is paramount, as the onyx stones themselves, bearing the names of the twelve tribes, symbolize the entire nation of Israel. Their placement on the High Priest's shoulders further symbolizes the High Priest's role as the representative and intercessor, bearing the people's identity and burdens before God. The shoulders, traditionally associated with strength and responsibility, enhance this symbolic meaning. The phrase "for a memorial" functions as a **Purpose Clause**, explicitly stating the divine intent behind the stones' existence and placement, clarifying their function within the sacred economy. Furthermore, the recurring phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses" acts as a powerful **Refrain** throughout Exodus 35-40. This **Repetition** serves to emphasize the meticulous obedience to divine instruction, reinforcing the themes of divine authority, human fidelity, and the sanctity of the Tabernacle's construction. This literary technique builds a sense of completion and divine approval, highlighting the perfection of the work done according to God's precise blueprint.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The placement of the engraved onyx stones on the High Priest's shoulders in Exodus 39:7 carries profound theological weight, primarily highlighting the themes of divine remembrance, representation, and the necessity of obedient worship. The High Priest, bearing the names of the tribes, served as a living embodiment of Israel's collective identity before God, signifying God's constant awareness and remembrance of His covenant people. This act underscored the principle of intercession, where one stands on behalf of others in the divine presence. Furthermore, the unwavering adherence to God's specific commands in the Tabernacle's construction emphasizes that true worship and service are not based on human innovation but on faithful execution of God's revealed will, establishing a pattern for all subsequent acts of devotion and demonstrating the importance of divine revelation.

* [Exodus 28:12](/exodus/28-12 "Exodus 28:12 - Stones for a Memorial")
* [Numbers 10:10](/numbers/10-10 "Numbers 10:10 - Trumpets as a Memorial")
* [Hebrews 9:24](/hebrews/9-24 "Hebrews 9:24 - Christ's Heavenly Ministry")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 39:7 offers rich insights for contemporary believers, inviting us to contemplate the profound nature of divine remembrance and our own roles in intercession and obedience. The image of the High Priest bearing the names of Israel on his shoulders serves as a powerful reminder that God never forgets His people; we are perpetually in His thoughts and before His divine presence. This should instill in us a deep sense of security and belonging, knowing that our identity is eternally etched in His memory, not based on our performance but on His covenant faithfulness. Moreover, the High Priest's representative role calls us to consider our own responsibility to bear one another's burdens and to intercede for those around us, carrying their needs and concerns before God in prayer, reflecting the compassion and advocacy of Christ. The meticulous obedience demonstrated in the Tabernacle's construction also challenges us to examine the sincerity and fidelity of our own worship and service. Are we seeking to honor God according to His revealed Word, or are we content with practices born of human preference? This verse encourages a worship that is not only heartfelt but also deeply rooted in the truth of God's commands, fostering a life of intentional and faithful devotion that honors His sovereignty.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of God "remembering" His people, as symbolized by the memorial stones, bring comfort or challenge to your faith?**
* **In what ways can you, as a believer, embody the spirit of intercession and representation for others in your daily life, bearing their needs before God?**
* **What areas of your worship or service might need to be re-evaluated to ensure they align more closely with God's revealed commands, rather than personal preferences?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the stones being placed on the shoulders of the ephod?**

Answer: The placement of the engraved onyx stones on the High Priest's shoulders was highly symbolic. In ancient cultures, shoulders often represented strength, authority, and the bearing of burdens. By placing the names of the twelve tribes of Israel on the High Priest's shoulders, it visually depicted his role as the one who bore the entire nation before God. He carried their identity, their needs, and their representation into the divine presence, signifying his intercessory role. This act underscored that the High Priest was not merely an individual but the designated representative of all God's covenant people, continually presenting them before the Lord, as commanded in [Exodus 28:12](/exodus/28-12 "Exodus 28:12 - Stones of Memorial").

**Why were the names of the tribes engraved on stones rather than embroidered on fabric?**

Answer: The choice of durable onyx stones, rather than embroidery on fabric, emphasized the permanence and unchangeable nature of God's remembrance of His people. Stone is a lasting material, signifying that Israel's identity and their place before God were eternally fixed and secure, not subject to decay or fading. This also aligns with other instances in Scripture where significant covenants or laws were inscribed on stone, such as the Ten Commandments on tablets of stone in [Exodus 31:18](/exodus/31-18 "Exodus 31:18 - Tablets of Stone"). The engraving technique further highlighted the meticulous detail and divine precision required for this sacred object, ensuring the names were indelibly marked.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 39:7, with its depiction of the High Priest bearing the names of Israel on his shoulders as a memorial before God, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The earthly High Priest served as a type, a shadow pointing to the reality of Christ, our great High Priest, who is superior in every way ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")). Unlike the Levitical priests who served in an earthly Tabernacle and offered repeated sacrifices, Jesus entered the true, heavenly sanctuary once for all, with His own blood, securing eternal redemption ([Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11-12 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). Where the High Priest carried the names of the tribes on his shoulders, Christ, as the Lamb of God, truly bears the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Lamb of God")), and by His finished work, He perpetually represents all who believe in Him before the Father. We are not merely remembered by God, but eternally united with Christ, our names written in the [Lamb's Book of Life](/revelation/21-27 "Revelation 21:27 - Book of Life"). His ongoing intercession for us ([Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession")) ensures that we are always presented spotless and blameless in God's presence, a far more profound and effective memorial than any earthly stone could ever be. Thus, the symbolic act in Exodus 39:7 powerfully foreshadows the complete and perfect High Priestly ministry of Jesus, who truly carries His people and their salvation upon His mighty shoulders, securing their eternal place 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

Joshua 4:7

Then ye shall answer them, That the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD; when it passed over Jordan, the waters of Jordan were cut off: and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever.

Exodus 28:12

And thou shalt put the two stones upon the shoulders of the ephod [for] stones of memorial unto the children of Israel: and Aaron shall bear their names before the LORD upon his two shoulders for a memorial.

Mark 14:22

And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake [it], and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body.

Mark 14:25

Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God.

Exodus 28:29

And Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the breastplate of judgment upon his heart, when he goeth in unto the holy [place], for a memorial before the LORD continually.

Nehemiah 2:20

Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.

Mark 14:9

Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, [this] also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.