Exodus 35 27

Exodus 35:27 kjv

And the rulers brought onyx stones, and stones to be set, for the ephod, and for the breastplate;

Exodus 35:27 nkjv

The rulers brought onyx stones, and the stones to be set in the ephod and in the breastplate,

Exodus 35:27 niv

The leaders brought onyx stones and other gems to be mounted on the ephod and breastpiece.

Exodus 35:27 esv

And the leaders brought onyx stones and stones to be set, for the ephod and for the breastpiece,

Exodus 35:27 nlt

The leaders brought onyx stones and the special gemstones to be set in the ephod and the priest's chestpiece.

Exodus 35 verses

Exodus 35 27 Meaning

Exodus 35:27 describes the specific contribution of the leaders or princes of Israel to the construction of the Tabernacle. While the common people offered various materials, the leaders provided precious and specialized items: onyx stones and other costly gems, intended specifically for the ephod and the breastpiece—integral components of the high priestly garments. These offerings were essential for the spiritual functions and holy representation required of the priesthood.

Exodus 35 27 Context

This verse is situated within Exodus chapter 35, which serves as a pivotal recapitulation of God's instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, initially detailed in Exodus chapters 25-31. Following the crisis of the Golden Calf (Exo 32) and the renewal of the covenant (Exo 34), Moses gathers the congregation of Israel to relay the Lord's command for building His sanctuary. Chapter 35 emphasizes the collective and voluntary nature of the offerings, with verses 21-29 describing the various materials brought by the willing hearts of the people, ranging from metals, fabrics, and skins, to oils and spices. Within this generous outpouring, Exodus 35:27 specifically highlights the significant contribution of the "rulers," indicating a distinct and precious category of items supplied by those in leadership positions, reflecting their unique responsibility and the high value placed on these specific elements for the high priest's garments. Historically, this phase marks Israel's spiritual renewal and their commitment to divine instructions after their sin, transforming divine instruction into communal action.

Exodus 35 27 Word analysis

• And the rulers (וְהַנְּשִׂאִים, vehannesi'im):

  • Word: Nesi'im (plural of nasi').
  • Significance: This Hebrew term refers to leaders, princes, or chieftains, denoting individuals of authority and prominence, often heads of tribes or important families in Israel. Their contribution is not just a general offering but a specific responsibility commensurate with their elevated status and greater resources, likely serving as an example to the rest of the congregation. In other contexts, they lead the tribes, offer gifts (Num 7), or consult with Moses (Exo 34:31).

• brought (הֵבִיאוּ, hevi'u):

  • Significance: Indicates direct and intentional action of bringing. It highlights their active participation in the freewill offering, showing their obedience and commitment to the Tabernacle's construction.

• onyx stones (אֵבְנֵי שֹׁהַם, ʾavnei shoham):

  • Word: Šōham (onyx).
  • Significance: A valuable semi-precious stone. According to Exodus 28:9-12, two onyx stones were specifically required for the shoulder pieces of the high priest's ephod. These stones were engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, six on each stone. Bearing them on his shoulders symbolized the high priest carrying the responsibility and representing all Israel before God. The leaders providing these specific, rare stones emphasizes their high value and critical importance for this holy function.

• and stones to be set (וְאַבְנֵי מִלֻּאִים, ve'avnei milu'im):

  • Word: Milu'im (stones for setting/filling).
  • Significance: Refers to the precious gemstones (Exo 28:17-20 lists sardius, topaz, carbuncle, emerald, sapphire, diamond, ligure, agate, amethyst, beryl, onyx, jasper) that were to be set in gold settings within the high priest's breastpiece of judgment. There were twelve such stones, each engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones, set upon the heart of the priest, symbolized him carrying the tribes' names into the presence of God for intercession. The leaders' contribution of these diverse and costly stones, distinct from the onyx stones, highlights their distinct purpose for the breastpiece.

• For the ephod (לָאֵפוֹד, la'ephod):

  • Word: ʾĒp̄ōd (ephod).
  • Significance: The most prominent sacred vestment worn by the high priest. It was made of intricately woven gold, blue, purple, and scarlet threads, and fine linen (Exo 28:6). The two onyx stones from verse 27 were affixed to its shoulder pieces. The ephod served as a symbol of the priest's office and his role in mediation.

• and for the breastpiece (וְלַחֹשֶׁן, velachoshen):

  • Word: Ḥōšen (breastpiece, breastplate).
  • Significance: Also called the "breastpiece of judgment," this was a square pouch-like garment worn over the ephod. It held the twelve precious stones mentioned, representing the twelve tribes of Israel, and also contained the Urim and Thummim, used for divine guidance. The contribution of these specific stones underlines the significance of this sacred garment in allowing the high priest to stand before God as the representative and intercessor for all Israel.

Exodus 35 27 Bonus section

The act of the nasi'im contributing these precious stones speaks to several profound aspects. Firstly, it showcases that leadership in Israel carried with it significant spiritual responsibility and a call to generous sacrifice. They were not merely benefactors, but active participants in worship and the building of God's dwelling, setting a high standard for communal giving. Secondly, the nature of the gift itself—gems for the High Priest's garments—points directly to the glory and order of God's house and ministry. These weren't arbitrary materials, but elements specifically prescribed by divine revelation, symbolizing beauty, purity, and the preciousness of the covenant people to God, brought before Him by His chosen mediator. Their act highlights the careful, divine economy where all gifts, regardless of size or value, contributed to the sacred purpose and glory of the Tabernacle.

Exodus 35 27 Commentary

Exodus 35:27 specifically highlights the leaders' (princes, chieftains) unique and crucial contribution to the Tabernacle's construction. Their offering was not a general one but consisted of extremely valuable and particular stones: onyx for the ephod's shoulder pieces and various gemstones for the high priest's breastpiece. This distinction underscores their responsibility, their example of devotion, and the recognition that certain high-value, precise materials were indispensable for the sacred garments. The provision of these stones for the ephod and breastpiece signifies not merely wealth, but deep spiritual understanding of the High Priest's representative role—bearing Israel's names before God in intercession and remembrance, foreshadowing Christ, our Great High Priest. This act reflects a communal effort where every part of the society contributed according to their means and position to fulfill God's holy design for His dwelling place among them.