King James Version
What Does Exodus 25:7 Mean?
“Onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod, and in the breastplate.”
Context
5
And rams' skins dyed red, and badgers' skins, and shittim wood,
6
Oil for the light, spices for anointing oil, and for sweet incense,
7
Onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod, and in the breastplate.
8
And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.
9
According to all that I shew thee, after the pattern of the tabernacle, and the pattern of all the instruments thereof, even so shall ye make it.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(7) **Onyx stones.**—The Hebrew *shoham *is rendered here by “sard” (LXX.), “sardonyx” (Vulg. And Josephus), and “beryl” (Rosenmüller and others). In Job 28:16, the same word is rendered by the LXX. “onyx.” There is thus considerable doubt what stone is meant. Only three such stones seem to have been required as offerings, one for the high priest’s breast-plate (Exodus 28:20), and two for the shoulder- pieces of the ephod (Exodus 28:9-12).
**Stones to be set in the ephod and in the breastplate.**—Heb., *stones of insertion for the ephod and for the breast-plate. *The stones of the ephod were two only, both probably either onyx or sardonyx; those of the breast-plate were twelve in number, all different (Exodus 28:17-20).
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Exodus 25:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Exodus 25:7
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge