King James Version
What Does Exodus 39:16 Mean?
“And they made two ouches of gold, and two gold rings; and put the two rings in the two ends of the breastplate.”
Exodus 39:16 · KJV
Context
14
And the stones were according to the names of the children of Israel, twelve , according to their names, like the engravings of a signet, every one with his name, according to the twelve tribes.
15
And they made upon the breastplate chains at the ends, of wreathen work of pure gold.
16
And they made two ouches of gold, and two gold rings; and put the two rings in the two ends of the breastplate.
17
And they put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings on the ends of the breastplate.
18
And the two ends of the two wreathen chains they fastened in the two ouches, and put them on the shoulderpieces of the ephod, before it.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe two gold settings (מִשְׁבְּצֹת, mishbetsot, filigree) and two rings (טַבָּעוֹת, taba'ot) attached to the breastplate's ends enabled connection to the ephod. Every component has purpose—God's design leaves nothing to chance. The rings' function (enabling connection) without inherent glory teaches that some roles facilitate others' visibility. In Christ's body, some members enable others' ministries without seeking prominence (1 Corinthians 12:22-24). The attention to connector details demonstrates that God values faithful service in 'hidden' roles.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Gold rings, forged from the same precious metal as the visible stones, performed essential but less prominent functions. The craftsmen's equal care in producing connectors and showpieces reflected the principle that all worship implements deserved excellent workmanship, regardless of visibility.
Reflection Questions
- How does God's care in designing 'connector' pieces encourage believers serving in less visible roles?
- What does every component having specific purpose teach about believers' diverse but equally valuable gifts?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 15 wordsזָהָ֑ב4 of 15
“gold”
H2091gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
הַטַּבָּעֹ֔ת6 of 15
“rings”
H2885properly, a seal (as sunk into the wax), i.e., signet (for sealing); hence (generally) a ring of any kind
זָהָ֑ב7 of 15
“gold”
H2091gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
וַֽיִּתְּנ֗וּ8 of 15
“and put”
H5414to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
אֶת9 of 15
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַטַּבָּעֹ֔ת11 of 15
“rings”
H2885properly, a seal (as sunk into the wax), i.e., signet (for sealing); hence (generally) a ring of any kind
עַל12 of 15
H5921above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
הַחֹֽשֶׁן׃15 of 15
“of the breastplate”
H2833perhaps a pocket (as holding the urim and thummim), or rich (as containing gems), used only of the gorget of the highpriest
Study Guide
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 39:16 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 39:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge