Exodus 28:9 Explained in Context

Read It With

• Exodus 28:6–14

Read Exodus 28:9 with 28:6–14. The line at 28:9 records “And thou shalt take two onyx stones, and grave on them the names of the children of Israel” and gives this movement its next narrated or instructed action. The whole unit shows: A richly worked ephod, shoulder pieces, onyx stones engraved with tribal names, gold settings, and chains place Israel's memory on the high priest.

Why This Verse Appears Here

Exodus 28:1–5 establishes the preceding movement: Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar are called to priestly service, and skilled workers receive materials for garments of dignity and beauty. This unit continues that movement: A richly worked ephod, shoulder pieces, onyx stones engraved with tribal names, gold settings, and chains place Israel's memory on the high priest. At 28:9, the wording “And thou shalt take two onyx stones, and grave on them the names of the children of Israel” makes this verse's contribution precise. The line at 28:9 records “And thou shalt take two onyx stones, and grave on them the names of the children of Israel” and gives this movement its next narrated or instructed action.