Exodus 39:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And they put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings on the ends of the breastplate.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The twisted gold chains were threaded through the corner rings to begin attaching the breastplate to the ephod.
The Context of Exodus 39:17
The chains are placed through the corner rings.
What Does Exodus 39:17 Mean?
The chains passed through the corner rings in a careful, deliberate way. This connection ensured that the breastplate (with the twelve tribal stones) was securely linked to the ephod (with the tribal names on the shoulder stones). The high priest thus wore multiple representations of the complete covenant people—stones on shoulders, stones over heart, and chains of pure gold binding them together.
This redundancy of connection was not excessive but essential. It communicated that the link between priest and people, mediated by these sacred objects, was not fragile or dependent on a single point of attachment. Multiple chains of twisted gold guaranteed that the bond would endure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 39:17
What does Exodus 39:17 mean?
The twisted gold chains were threaded through the corner rings to begin attaching the breastplate to the ephod.
What is the context of Exodus 39:17?
The chains are placed through the corner rings.