Topics

Ephod, the

The ephod was a sacred priestly garment worn by the high priest, featuring the breastplate with twelve precious stones representing Israel's tribes. It served as both a ceremonial vestment and a means through which God's guidance could be sought.

Overview

The ephod was a linen garment worn by Israel's high priest, constructed with intricate craftsmanship and adorned with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet threads. It featured shoulder pieces and a breastplate set with twelve precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of Israel's tribes, symbolizing the priest's intercession for all God's people.

Key Scriptures

"And you shall make on the breastpiece two rings of gold, and put the two rings on the two ends of the breastpiece" (Exodus 28:23, ESV). "And the other two ends of the two cords you shall attach to the two settings of filigree, and so attach it in front to the shoulder pieces of the ephod" (Exodus 28:25, ESV). "David said, 'Will the men of Keilah surrender me and my men into the hand of Saul?' And the LORD said, 'They will surrender you.' Then David said, 'O LORD, God of Israel, your servant has surely heard that Saul seeks to come to Keilah, to destroy the city on my account'" (1 Samuel 23:11-12, ESV).

Application

Remember that Christ is our ultimate High Priest who intercedes for us continually before God's throne.

Scripture References 12
Full Topical Reference List 12 total — Nave's Topical Bible

Breastplate of judgment inseparably united to

Shoulders of, joined by onyx stones engraved with names of the twelve tribes of Israel