from an unused root probably meaning to contain or sparkle; perhaps a pocket (as holding the Urim and Thummim), or rich (as containing gems), used only of the gorget of the highpriest; breastplate.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chôshen**, represented by `{{H2833}}`, refers exclusively to the high priest's **breastplate**. It appears 25 times across 21 unique verses in the Bible. The term describes a pocket-like garment, designed to contain the Urim and Thummim, and is also characterized as being rich with gems.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2833}}` is a central component of the holy `{{H6944}}` garments `{{H899}}` made for Aaron `{{H175}}` and his sons `{{H1121}}` for their service as priests `{{H3547}}` [[Exodus 28:4]]. Repeatedly called the **breastplate** of judgment `{{H4941}}`, it was crafted with cunning `{{H2803}}` work `{{H4639}}` from gold `{{H2091}}`, blue `{{H8504}}`, purple `{{H713}}`, and scarlet `{{H8144}}` [[Exodus 28:15]]. Its primary function was to hold the Urim `{{H224}}` and the Thummim `{{H8550}}` ([[Exodus 28:30]], [[Leviticus 8:8]]). Aaron was to bear `{{H5375}}` the names `{{H8034}}` of the children of Israel `{{H3478}}` in the **breastplate** upon his heart `{{H3820}}` as a continual `{{H8548}}` memorial `{{H2146}}` before the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Exodus 28:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words define the construction and function of the breastplate:
* `{{H646}}` **ʼêphôwd** (a girdle; specifically the ephod...): This garment is intrinsically linked to the **breastplate**, which was to be bound `{{H7405}}` to it with a lace `{{H6616}}` of blue `{{H8504}}` so it would not be loosed `{{H2118}}` from the ephod [[Exodus 28:28]].
* `{{H4941}}` **mishpâṭ** (properly, a verdict...): The **breastplate** is specifically called the "**breastplate** of judgment" [[Exodus 28:15]], indicating its function in seeking and bearing God's formal decrees for Israel `{{H3478}}` [[Exodus 28:30]].
* `{{H224}}` **ʼÛwrîym** (lights) and `{{H8550}}` **Tummîym** (perfections): These sacred objects were placed inside the **breastplate** and were essential for its function. They were put `{{H5414}}` in the **breastplate** of judgment `{{H4941}}` and borne upon Aaron's heart `{{H3820}}` [[Exodus 28:30]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2833}}` is demonstrated in its specific purpose and design.
* **Priestly Representation:** The **breastplate** served as a tangible representation of the twelve tribes of Israel `{{H3478}}`. By bearing `{{H5375}}` their names `{{H8034}}` upon his heart `{{H3820}}`, the high priest carried the entire nation into the presence of the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Exodus 28:29]].
* **Instrument of Divine Judgment:** As the "**breastplate** of judgment" `{{H4941}}`, it was the designated vessel for the Urim `{{H224}}` and Thummim `{{H8550}}`, the means by which God's verdicts and guidance were sought and revealed to the nation [[Exodus 28:30]].
* **Sacred Craftsmanship:** The construction of the **breastplate** from precious materials like gold `{{H2091}}`, blue `{{H8504}}`, purple `{{H713}}`, and scarlet `{{H8144}}`, and its creation through cunning `{{H2803}}` work `{{H4639}}`, highlights its sacred status as a holy `{{H6944}}` garment commanded `{{H6680}}` by God ([[Exodus 28:15]], [[Exodus 39:21]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2833}}` **chôshen** is a highly specific term for a critical piece of the high priest's regalia. It functioned not merely as a decorative item but as a vessel for divine communication, the "**breastplate** of judgment" `{{H4941}}`. By bearing the names of Israel's sons `{{H1121}}` over the priest's heart `{{H3820}}`, it symbolized the high priest's role as the nation's mediator and representative before the LORD `{{H3068}}`, making it a cornerstone of the Levitical priesthood's function and identity.
TRV