Exodus 39:12 Meaning and Explanation
“And the third row, a ligure, an agate, and an amethyst.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The third row contained ligure, agate, and amethyst, completing the spectrum of colors.
The Context of Exodus 39:12
The third row of gemstones is specified.
What Does Exodus 39:12 Mean?
The ligure (possibly jacinth or amber), agate (striped or banded stone), and amethyst (purple) continued the kaleidoscope of colors. The appearance of amethyst is especially notable—its purple echoed the sacred purple dyes used in the tabernacle's hangings and in the priests' garments.
Including amethyst in the breastplate of the high priest connected his office to the royal and sacred atmosphere of the tabernacle itself. The purple appeared in both his garments and the holy space where he served, binding his priestly role to the sanctuary's sanctity.
Exodus 39:12 in the Original Language
ligure (לְשׁוּם) — possibly jacinth or hyacinth (amber/golden stone); agate (שְׁבוּ) — striped stone; amethyst (אָחְלָמָה) — purple quartz
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 39:12
What does Exodus 39:12 mean?
The third row contained ligure, agate, and amethyst, completing the spectrum of colors.
What is the context of Exodus 39:12?
The third row of gemstones is specified.