Breastplate
“Breastpiece, ornament”
Summary
A sacred vestment worn by the high priest containing twelve precious stones representing the tribes of Israel, or defensive armor protecting the chest.
☩High Priest's Breastplate
The breastplate of judgment (Hebrew 'choshen') was a square pouch about nine inches on each side, made of the same materials as the ephod: gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine linen. It was set with twelve precious stones in four rows, each engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The high priest wore it over his heart when entering the holy place, bearing the names of Israel before the Lord.
☩The Urim and Thummim
The breastplate contained a pocket for the Urim and Thummim, sacred objects used for discerning God's will in important matters. This is why it was called 'the breastplate of judgment.' Through these, the high priest could inquire of the Lord on behalf of the nation.
Related Verses26 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Breastplate," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. I (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Breastplate," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. I (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.George Morrish, "Breastplate," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).