Exodus 25:7
ESV
onyx stones, and stones for setting, for the ephod and for the breastpiece.
NIV
and onyx stones and other gems to be mounted on the ephod and breastpiece.
NASB
onyx stones and setting stones for the ephod and for the breastpiece.
CSB
and onyx along with other gemstones for mounting on the ephod and breastpiece.
NLT
onyx stones, and other gemstones to be set in the ephod and the priest’s chestpiece.
KJV
Onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod, and in the breastplate.
NKJV
onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod and in the breastplate.
What does Exodus 25:7 mean?
Israel had been enslaved in Egypt for centuries (Exodus 1:11–14) until the Lord freed them (Exodus 12:40–41). Before they left, they took tremendous wealth from the Egyptians (Exodus 11:2–3; 12:33–36). This was the likely source of the precious stones mentioned here (Exodus 3:21–22). More gems could be obtained by trade with friendly tribes, if necessary. The failed attack by Amalekites (Exodus 17:8, 13) could have provided more. These are part of a voluntary collection (Exodus 25:1–2) to make a portable temple (Exodus 25:8–9). So far, the Lord has asked for precious metals, valuable fabrics, fine natural building materials, and ingredients for special perfumes (Exodus 25:3–6).The Hebrew word shoham is most often translated as "onyx." However, names of gems and minerals have been notoriously difficult to translate into modern categories. Recent cooperation between geology and archaeology has helped refine these words. However, alternate translations will refer to this stone as carnelian or even as lapis lazuli. This and other gemstones will be included as part of the sacred ephod and breastpiece (Exodus 28:4). Some of the gems in those garments are representative of tribes of Israel (Exodus 28:17–21).
