King James Version
What Does Exodus 39:17 Mean?
“And they put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings on the ends of the breastplate.”
Exodus 39:17 · KJV
Context
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.
19
And they made two rings of gold, and put them on the two ends of the breastplate, upon the border of it, which was on the side of the ephod inward.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryPutting the gold chains in the breastplate rings completes the upper connection between breastplate and ephod. The meticulous assembly instructions fulfilled 'as the LORD commanded Moses' (though not stated here, assumed from context). Each linking component—chains, rings, settings—ensures the breastplate remains securely positioned over Aaron's heart during ministry. This interconnected design prefigures the church's organic unity in Christ (Ephesians 4:15-16), where diverse members are 'fitly joined together' through Him. No believer is isolated; all are connected through the High Priest.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
The assembly sequence—first making individual components, then connecting them—mirrors construction wisdom: components must be complete before assembly. This methodical approach ensured proper function and demonstrated that worship of the holy God requires order, not confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33, 40).
Reflection Questions
- How does the breastplate's interconnected assembly illustrate believers' organic unity in Christ's body?
- What does the need for 'linking' components teach about maintaining unity in the church?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 10 wordsוַֽיִּתְּנ֗וּ1 of 10
“And they put”
H5414to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
הַזָּהָ֔ב4 of 10
“of gold”
H2091gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
עַל5 of 10
H5921above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
הַטַּבָּעֹ֑ת7 of 10
“rings”
H2885properly, a seal (as sunk into the wax), i.e., signet (for sealing); hence (generally) a ring of any kind
עַל8 of 10
H5921above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
הַחֹֽשֶׁן׃10 of 10
“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 39:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.