Ouches
מִשְׁבְּצֹת/OW-chez/
“Settings, filigree work”
Summary
Ouches were the gold settings or sockets in which precious stones were mounted on the high priest's breastplate and ephod.
☩Usage
The term "ouches" (now archaic) refers to the gold settings that held the precious stones on the high priest's garments. The two onyx stones on the shoulder pieces of the ephod were set in ouches of gold, engraved with the names of the twelve tribes. Similarly, the twelve stones on the breastplate were enclosed in gold settings. The craftsmanship involved setting each stone securely in its gold mounting, creating the ornate vestments prescribed for Aaron and his successors.
Key verses:Exodus 28:11-14Exodus 28:25Exodus 39:6Exodus 39:13-18