What is the context?
The breastpiece is made with the same materials as the ephod, folded double and fitted with twelve precious stones in four rows. Each stone bears the name of one of Israel’s twelve tribes. Chains, rings and a blue cord secure it to the ephod so that it stays in place.
The people’s names are now carried over Aaron’s heart as well as on his shoulders. The text calls this a continual reminder before the LORD. It also calls the garment the breastpiece of judgment and places the Urim and Thummim within it, associated with the decisions carried before God.
Numbers 27:18–23 later describes Eleazar seeking counsel by the judgment of the Urim for Joshua. 1 Samuel 28:5–7 mentions the Urim among the means by which Saul sought an answer and received none. The purpose is divine counsel for Israel; Exodus does not describe the objects’ exact appearance or the procedure by which an answer was given.
How is this passage commonly understood?
The twelve named stones are commonly understood as presenting the whole people before God through the high priest. Wesley draws attention to the combination of shoulders and heart, reading them as a picture of the strength and love with which Christ represents His people.
The Urim and Thummim have received different explanations. Calvin favors signs of God’s guidance and faithful conduct associated with the breastpiece. Wesley considers several possibilities, including something God supplied or an indication of the priest’s guidance from God. Rashi’s Jewish commentary understands an inscription of God’s name placed within its folds. These are documented readings; the text does not settle the matter by identifying two differently colored stones or describing letters that light up.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
The theme of God guiding His people reaches a fuller expression in Hebrews 1:1–4. God, who spoke in different ways through the prophets, has spoken through His Son. The Son reveals His nature and, after providing purification for sins, takes His place at God’s right hand. Representation before God and revelation from God come together in Him.
There is also a later parallel in the precious stones and names of Revelation 21:9–21. The holy city bears the names of Israel’s tribes on its gates and the Lamb’s apostles on its jeweled foundations. The arrangements and names on those foundations differ from Aaron’s breastpiece. The shared imagery places God’s people within His promised future: a people remembered, brought near and given a place in the city filled with His glory.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.