Exodus 39:21
And they did bind the breastplate by his rings unto the rings of the ephod with a lace of blue, that it might be above the curious girdle of the ephod, and that the breastplate might not be loosed from the ephod; as the LORD commanded Moses.
Exodus 39:21 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse describes the meticulous instructions given by the Lord to Moses regarding the attire of the priests. In this specific verse, it details how the breastplate of judgment should be attached to the ephod, which was a priestly garment worn on the upper body. The breastplate was adorned with twelve precious stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. By connecting the breastplate to the ephod with a lace of blue, it ensured that it would remain securely in place, symbolizing the unity and cohesion of the tribes. This decorative binding also emphasized the importance and significance of the breastplate, as it served as a means of seeking guidance and making decisions through the Urim and Thummim stones. Overall, the verse highlights the reverence and attention to detail in carrying out the Lord's commands in the construction of the priestly garments.
Theological Overview
In this verse from Exodus, we see intricate details about the binding of the breastplate to the ephod of the high priest. The breastplate was bound to the ephod by rings and a lace of blue, ensuring that it remained securely attached. The purpose of this binding was to keep the breastplate above the curious girdle of the ephod, as instructed by God to Moses. This act of binding symbolizes the importance of unity and cohesion within the priestly garments, emphasizing the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people. By following God's precise commands regarding the garments of the high priest, the Israelites demonstrated their obedience and reverence for the Lord.
Exodus 39:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
And they did bind the breastplate by the rings thereof unto the rings of the ephod with a lace of blue, that it might be upon the skilfully woven band of the ephod, and that the breastplate might not be loosed from the ephod; as Jehovah commanded Moses.
World English Bible
They bound the breastplate by its rings to the rings of the ephod with a lace of blue, that it might be on the skillfully woven band of the ephod, and that the breastplate might not come loose from the ephod, as Yahweh commanded Moses.
Douay-Rheims
And a hole for the head in the upper part at the middle, and a woven border round about the hole:
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then they fastened the brest plate by his rings vnto the rings of the Ephod, with a lace of blewe silke, that it might bee fast vpon the broydered garde of the Ephod, and that the brest plate should not be loosed from the Ephod, as the Lord had commanded Moses.