And they put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings on the ends of the breastplate.

EXODUS 39:17KJV
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Exodus 39:17 (KJV)

What does Exodus 39:17 mean?

Exodus 39:17 describes how the craftsmen attached two twisted gold chains to the two rings at the ends of the breastplate. This verse is part of the instructions for making the high priest’s ceremonial clothing, detailing how the breastplate was securely fastened.

In this section, skilled workers are following God’s commands given to Moses about constructing the garments for Aaron, the high priest. The breastplate was an important piece, holding the Urim and Thummim, and needed to be attached carefully to the ephod (a special vest). The verse shows the careful attention to detail and craftsmanship involved in making the sacred items for worship.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 39:17

  • The word for "chains" is עֲבֹת (avot), which refers to braided or twisted cords. This highlights that the chains were not just simple links but were artistically woven, adding beauty and strength.
  • The word for "rings" is טַבַּעַת (tabba'at), meaning a circular band or ring. These rings served as the connecting points for attaching the breastplate securely.
  • The word for "ends" is קָצֶה (qatseh), meaning edge or extremity. This shows that the rings were placed at the very edges of the breastplate, ensuring it hung properly and was stable.

Why Exodus 39:17 matters

  • This verse clarifies how the high priest’s breastplate was attached, showing the importance of following detailed instructions for sacred objects.
  • The emphasis on craftsmanship and specific materials (like gold) underlines the value and holiness of the priestly garments.
  • Understanding these details helps readers see the care and reverence involved in Israel’s worship practices, connecting the physical design to the spiritual significance of the priesthood.

Where else these words appear

“breastplate” Hebrew H2833 · used in 21 verses

  • Exodus 25:7 Onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod, and in the breastplate.
  • Exodus 28:26 And thou shalt make two rings of gold, and thou shalt put them upon the two ends of the breastplate in the border thereof, which is in the side of the ephod inward.
  • Exodus 39:8 And he made the breastplate of cunning work, like the work of the ephod; of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen.

“chains” Hebrew H5688 · used in 23 verses

  • Exodus 28:14 And two chains of pure gold at the ends; of wreathen work shalt thou make them, and fasten the wreathen chains to the ouches.
  • Judges 15:14 And when he came unto Lehi, the Philistines shouted against him: and the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and the cords that were upon his arms became as flax that was burnt with fire, and his bands loosed from off his hands.
  • Isaiah 5:18 Woe unto them that draw iniquity with cords of vanity, and sin as it were with a cart rope:

“ends” Hebrew H7098 · used in 30 verses

  • Exodus 25:18 And thou shalt make two cherubims of gold, of beaten work shalt thou make them, in the two ends of the mercy seat.
  • Exodus 36:11 And he made loops of blue on the edge of one curtain from the selvedge in the coupling: likewise he made in the uttermost side of another curtain, in the coupling of the second.
  • 1 Kings 13:33 After this thing Jeroboam returned not from his evil way, but made again of the lowest of the people priests of the high places: whosoever would, he consecrated him, and he became one of the priests of the high places.

“rings” Hebrew H2885 · used in 38 verses

  • Genesis 41:42 And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck;
  • Exodus 28:26 And thou shalt make two rings of gold, and thou shalt put them upon the two ends of the breastplate in the border thereof, which is in the side of the ephod inward.
  • Exodus 38:5 And he cast four rings for the four ends of the grate of brass, to be places for the staves.