King James Version
What Does Exodus 39:18 Mean?
“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.”
Exodus 39:18 · KJV
Context
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.
20
And they made two other golden rings, and put them on the two sides of the ephod underneath, toward the forepart of it, over against the other coupling thereof, above the curious girdle of the ephod.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryFastening the chains' 'two ends' to the gold settings on the ephod's shoulderpieces 'before it' (front) completes the top attachment. The breastplate now hangs from the shoulders—weight-bearing strength supports the heart's affections. This structural hierarchy teaches that priestly ministry requires strong shoulders to sustain compassionate heart. Christ's mediatorial work demonstrates both: omnipotent strength upholds infinite love. The connection's visibility ('before it') teaches that Christ's bearing His people in strength and love is openly displayed before the Father, not hidden.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
The front attachment ensured the breastplate remained visible during priestly ministry, especially when Aaron faced the people while blessing them or entered the Holy Place facing forward. The connection's strength prevented the breastplate from shifting or falling during vigorous sacrificial work.
Reflection Questions
- How does Christ's strong shoulders supporting His compassionate heart assure believers of secure salvation?
- What does the visible connection teach about Christ's open advocacy for believers before the Father?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 16 wordsוְאֵ֨ת1 of 16
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
וַֽיִּתְּנֻ֛ם6 of 16
“and put”
H5414to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
עַל7 of 16
H5921above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
וַֽיִּתְּנֻ֛ם10 of 16
“and put”
H5414to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
עַל11 of 16
H5921above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
כִּתְפֹ֥ת12 of 16
“them on the shoulderpieces”
H3802the shoulder (proper, i.e., upper end of the arm; as being the spot where the garments hang); figuratively, side-piece or lateral projection of anythi
הָֽאֵפֹ֖ד13 of 16
“of the ephod”
H646a girdle; specifically the ephod or highpriest's shoulder-piece; also generally, an image
מ֥וּל15 of 16
“it”
H4136properly, abrupt, i.e., a precipice; by implication, the front; used only adverbially (with prepositional prefix) opposite
פָּנָֽיו׃16 of 16
“before”
H6440the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
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 39:18 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 39:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge