Exodus 28 13

Exodus 28:13 kjv

And thou shalt make ouches of gold;

Exodus 28:13 nkjv

You shall also make settings of gold,

Exodus 28:13 niv

Make gold filigree settings

Exodus 28:13 esv

You shall make settings of gold filigree,

Exodus 28:13 nlt

Make the settings of gold filigree,

Exodus 28 verses

Exodus 28 13 Meaning

Exodus 28:13 details the divine command for the creation of the high priestly garments. Specifically, it instructs that intricate gold frameworks, known as "settings" or "filigree work," are to be precisely fashioned to securely hold the two onyx stones mentioned previously. These stones, placed on the shoulders of the ephod, bear the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying the High Priest's role in carrying and presenting God's people before the Lord in worship and intercession. The use of pure gold emphasizes the sacredness, value, and divine origin of this divinely appointed office and its duties.

Exodus 28 13 Context

Exodus chapter 28 initiates a detailed blueprint for the sacred garments of Aaron and his sons, designated for their service as priests. These garments were not merely clothing but were integral to their spiritual function, symbolizing the dignity, beauty, and holiness required for mediating between God and His people. Specifically, verses 9-12 describe the two onyx stones, upon which the names of the twelve tribes of Israel were to be engraved, placed on the ephod's shoulder pieces. Verse 13 then precisely commands the crafting of the elaborate gold settings for these very stones. Historically, ancient Near Eastern priests often wore distinctive attire, but Israel's priestly garments were uniquely specified by Yahweh, emphasizing His absolute sovereignty and the specific nature of His covenant with Israel. This divine instruction stood in stark contrast to the humanly devised rituals and idolatrous practices of surrounding nations, reinforcing monotheism and the exclusive way to approach the holy God.

Exodus 28 13 Word analysis

• And you shall make (וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ - ve'asita): This verb emphasizes a direct, imperative command from God, highlighting the deliberate and intentional creation process. It signifies a divine blueprint that must be strictly adhered to, not a human invention.
• settings (מִשְׁבְּצֹ֥ת - mishbetzot): This significant Hebrew term refers to "filigree work," "bezel settings," or "woven patterns." It denotes intricate, often netted or interwoven metalwork designed to enclose or hold. Its precise nature implies the meticulous detail and craftsmanship required for the sacred space and its objects, suggesting security and elaborate design rather than simple adhesion.
• of gold (זָהָֽב - zahav): Gold, especially "pure gold" (implied by its common usage in the Tabernacle's furnishings), is universally precious. In a biblical context, it frequently symbolizes purity, divine glory, permanence, supreme value, and royalty. Its use for the priestly garments underscores the extraordinary holiness and worth of the priestly office and the act of representing God's people.
• to mount them in (מֻֽסְגְּרֹ֥ת תַּעֲשֶׂ֖ה - musgerot ta'aseh, typically translated as part of the initial "make settings" but implying "enclosures" or "mounts"): While some translations combine this idea with "settings," the underlying sense of "enclosure" or "fitting together" is critical. It conveys the function of these gold settings: to securely encase and display the onyx stones, ensuring they remain firmly in place. This secure holding reflects the High Priest's unshakeable responsibility to "carry" the names of Israel before God, a symbolic representation of God's steadfast remembrance and care for His covenant people. The combination of intricate design (mishbetzot) and secure holding (musgerot) is central to the verse's meaning.

Exodus 28 13 Bonus section

The concept of precise craftsmanship commanded for the Tabernacle and its associated items (like these settings) highlights a key biblical principle: God demands excellence and beauty in worship and service. The skill required for "filigree work" (as suggested by "settings") was significant in the ancient world, often requiring specialized artisans. This indicates that God Himself gifts individuals with specific abilities (as seen with Bezalel and Oholiab in Exod 31) for His purposes, demonstrating that all talents can and should be consecrated to Him. The golden settings not only adorned the High Priest but also spoke to the inherent value and cherished nature of the twelve tribes in God's sight, meticulously displayed and carried into the Holy Place. This divine attention to detail reinforces God’s desire for orderly, pure, and glorious worship.

Exodus 28 13 Commentary

Exodus 28:13 is a meticulous divine instruction that underpins the sacred symbolism of the high priestly garments. The specific command to fashion "settings of gold" for the onyx stones is not merely an aesthetic detail but a foundational element of priestly function and the character of God's worship. These settings symbolize the divine order and precision required in approaching the Lord. The choice of pure gold signifies the holiness and preciousness of both the priestly office and the people it represents, as the gold securely held the engraved names of the twelve tribes. This precise craftsmanship, inspired and directed by God, illustrates that all service and adornment in His presence must reflect His glory and worthiness. The secure fastening of the stones underscores the unshakeable nature of God's covenant with Israel and the High Priest's responsibility to continually bear their names before Him, foreshadowing Christ's ultimate and enduring intercession for His people.