Read the Daily Bible Verse – Exodus 39:6 To Strengthen Your Spiritual Journey.
Exodus 39:6 stands as a pivotal verse in the larger narrative of the construction of the Tabernacle, the sacred dwelling place of God among the Israelites. As part of the detailed instructions given to the people of Israel for their worship practices, this verse provides insight not only into the physical work done in the building of the Tabernacle but also into deeper theological principles. In this article, we will explore the context of Exodus 39:6, delve into its meaning, and examine how it applies to life today. Additionally, we will compare it with other relevant biblical texts, discuss its modern-day relevance, and provide a commentary to better understand its significance.
The Context of Exodus 39:6 KJV
To fully appreciate the meaning of Exodus 39:6, it is important to understand the context in which it occurs. Exodus 39 is part of a broader section in the book of Exodus, detailing the construction and creation of the Tabernacle and the sacred garments for the priests. This chapter is the culmination of the Israelites’ obedience to God’s instructions on how to build a sanctuary where He would dwell among them.
In Exodus 39:1-31, we see the artisans, including Bezalel and Oholiab, working meticulously to make the items that would be used in the Tabernacle’s service, such as the ark of the covenant, the altar, the table for the showbread, and the garments for the priests. Exodus 39:6 specifically refers to the making of the two onyx stones that were set in the shoulderpieces of the ephod worn by the high priest. These stones had names engraved on them that represented the twelve tribes of Israel.
The verse reads:
“And they wrought onyx stones, set in ouches of gold, graven, as signets are graven, with the names of the children of Israel: twelve names according to their names, by their twelve tribes.” — Exodus 39:6 KJV
This verse occurs in the context of preparing the priestly garments, particularly the ephod, which was a sacred garment worn by the high priest when performing his duties in the Tabernacle. The ephod itself was a symbol of the priest’s role as an intercessor between God and the people of Israel. Exodus 39:6 is crucial because it tells us about the onyx stones and their engravings, which carried the names of the twelve tribes of Israel.
The Significance of the Onyx Stones
The onyx stones that were set in the ephod were not ordinary stones; they were chosen for their beauty and durability. More importantly, they carried the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. This act of engraving the names on the stones was deeply symbolic, representing the priest’s role in carrying the people before God in a way that would highlight both the unity of the tribes and their collective covenant with the Lord.
The onyx stones also served as a physical reminder that the high priest, as a representative of Israel, was to bear the people’s names before God in his service. This idea of bearing the people before God is central to the priest’s intercessory role. The high priest wore the ephod with the onyx stones on his shoulders as a way of bringing the concerns, hopes, and needs of the people to God.
The Meaning of Exodus 39:6
Exodus 39:6 is a richly layered verse with both practical and theological significance. Let’s break down the verse to understand its deeper meaning.
1. The Role of the Priest as an Intercessor
The high priest’s role in the Old Testament was one of intercession. He was the mediator between God and the people of Israel, offering sacrifices and prayers on their behalf. The onyx stones engraved with the names of the twelve tribes were a visual representation of this role. The priest was to bear the names of Israel on his shoulders as a reminder that he was carrying their burdens before the Lord. The high priest’s responsibility to intercede for the people is underscored by the very nature of the stones he wore.
In the New Testament, this concept of intercession is continued in the person of Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as our High Priest. Hebrews 7:25 says, “Therefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.” Just as the high priest in Exodus carried the names of the twelve tribes before God, Christ carries the names of His people before God the Father, offering prayers of intercession on their behalf.
2. Unity and Representation of the Twelve Tribes
The engraving of the twelve names on the onyx stones highlights the unity and collective identity of the twelve tribes of Israel. Each tribe had a distinct identity, but collectively they were the people of God, called into covenant with Him. The high priest’s act of bearing these names on his shoulders symbolized the unity of the people of Israel as they were represented before God.
This concept of unity is vital in the New Testament church as well. The apostle Paul speaks of the church as the body of Christ, with each member playing a unique role but all together making up one united body (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). The idea of unity among God’s people is a principle that transcends both the Old and New Testaments.
3. Holiness and Sacredness of God’s People
The engraving of the names on the stones also points to the holiness of God’s people. Israel was a nation set apart for God, and the act of engraving the names on precious stones emphasizes their special status before God. These names were not just random; they were engraved with care, just as God carefully chose Israel to be His people.
For Christians, this reminds us of our own calling to holiness. Peter writes in 1 Peter 2:9, “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” As believers, we are called to be holy and set apart, just as Israel was called in the Old Testament.
4. Significance of the Onyx Stones
Onyx stones were known for their durability and beauty, making them ideal for engraving. In ancient times, stones like onyx were associated with strength and permanence. The choice of such stones for the ephod communicated the lasting nature of God’s covenant with Israel. The engraving of the names on these stones symbolized not only the importance of the tribes but also the permanence of God’s promises to them.
In the New Testament, this concept of permanence can be seen in Christ’s sacrifice, which, unlike the temporary sacrifices of the Old Testament, has eternal significance. Hebrews 10:14 states, “For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.” Just as the names engraved on the onyx stones were permanent, so too is the salvation we have through Christ, which is secure and eternal.
Exodus 39:6 Application in Life
The principles found in Exodus 39:6 have several applications for believers today, both in the context of our relationship with God and our relationships with one another.
1. The Call to Intercession
Just as the high priest carried the names of Israel before God, Christians are called to intercede on behalf of others. Whether in prayer for family members, friends, or even those who are distant or adversarial, we are invited to bring the concerns of others before God. Jesus’ role as our intercessor continues, but He also calls us to be agents of intercession in the world, carrying the burdens of others through prayer.
2. Embracing Unity in the Church
The onyx stones, engraved with the twelve tribes, remind us of the unity of God’s people. Today, the church is the body of Christ, and every believer, though unique, is part of a greater whole. We must prioritize unity in the church, remembering that we are all part of God’s people, chosen to serve Him together. Paul urges the church to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3).
3. Living as a Holy People
The engraving of the names on the stones emphasizes the holiness of Israel. As Christians, we are called to live holy lives, set apart for God’s purposes. This requires intentionality and dedication in our daily lives. In our actions, attitudes, and relationships, we must reflect the holiness of the God who has called us to be His own.
4. Recognizing the Permanence of God’s Covenant
The durability of the onyx stones points to the permanence of God’s promises. For believers, this is a powerful reminder that God’s covenant with us is unbreakable. While circumstances may change, God’s promises remain steadfast and true. We can trust in the permanence of His love and faithfulness, knowing that He will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).
Comparison with Other Biblical Texts
1. Hebrews 7:25
As mentioned earlier, Hebrews 7:25 speaks of Christ’s intercessory role, highlighting the continuity between the Old and New Testaments in the concept of mediation. Just as the high priest bore the names of the tribes of Israel, Christ bears the names of His people before the Father.
2. 1 Peter 2:9
1 Peter 2:9 calls the church a “royal priesthood,” which echoes the priestly imagery of Exodus 39:6. While the Old Testament priesthood was for the descendants of Aaron, the New Testament priesthood includes all believers who are part of the body of Christ. Both passages emphasize the dignity and responsibility of representing God’s people to Him.
3. Revelation 21:12-14
In Revelation 21:12-14, the names of the twelve tribes of Israel are engraved on the foundations of the New Jerusalem, symbolizing the eternal unity of God’s people. This ties back to Exodus 39:6, where the tribes are engraved on the onyx stones in the ephod, showing that the unity of God’s people is an enduring theme throughout Scripture.
Conclusion
Exodus 39:6 offers profound insights into the role of the high priest, the unity of God’s people, and the enduring nature of God’s promises. While the verse may seem technical, it carries deep theological meaning that is still relevant today. Through the priestly imagery of the onyx stones, we are reminded of our own calling to intercede for others, to live in unity as the body of Christ, and to embrace the holiness that God has called us to. The permanence of the covenant represented by the stones assures us of God’s unshakeable commitment to His people, both in the Old and New Testaments.
Exodus 39:6 Commentary
Exodus 39:6 is a powerful reminder of the sanctity and significance of the priesthood and the collective identity of Israel. The act of engraving the twelve names on the onyx stones is not just a ritual; it represents deep theological truths about God’s relationship with His people. The high priest’s role as intercessor, bearing the names of Israel before God, points to Christ’s ultimate work of mediation. Moreover, the stones themselves symbolize the enduring nature of God’s covenant with His people, a covenant that is eternal and unbreakable.
Related topics: