Exodus 39:13 Meaning and Explanation
“And the fourth row, a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper: they were inclosed in ouches of gold in their inclosings.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The fourth row held beryl, onyx, and jasper, completing the twelve tribal stones in gold settings.
The Context of Exodus 39:13
The fourth and final row of gemstones is described.
What Does Exodus 39:13 Mean?
The final row featured beryl (pale green to colorless), onyx (the same black stone used for the shoulder pieces), and jasper (red, yellow, or green). With all twelve stones now complete, the entire breastplate represented the wholeness of God's covenant people in all their variety and strength.
Each stone was enclosed in ouches (gold frames or bezels) that held them securely and elevated them visually. The repetition of this enclosure detail emphasizes that no stone was left exposed or vulnerable; all were protected and honored within the precious metal setting.
Exodus 39:13 in the Original Language
beryl (תַּרְשִׁישׁ) — precious stone, pale greenish-blue; onyx (שׁוֹהַם) — black stone; jasper (יָשְׁפֵה) — multicolored stone; ouches (מִשְׁבְצוֹת) — gold bezels or frames
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 39:13
What does Exodus 39:13 mean?
The fourth row held beryl, onyx, and jasper, completing the twelve tribal stones in gold settings.
What is the context of Exodus 39:13?
The fourth and final row of gemstones is described.