Exodus 28:9
ESV
You shall take two onyx stones, and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel,
NIV
"Take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel
NASB
And you shall take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel,
CSB
"Take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of Israel’s sons:
NLT
Take two onyx stones, and engrave on them the names of the tribes of Israel.
KJV
And thou shalt take two onyx stones, and grave on them the names of the children of Israel:
NKJV
“Then you shall take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel:
What does Exodus 28:9 mean?
Please see our chapter commentary on Exodus 28; verse-level content coming soon!Exodus 28:6–14 describes the "ephod:" a sacred garment (Exodus 28:1–5) something like a vest or smock. The ephod includes shoulder pieces rimmed with ornate gold wiring, which hold engraved onyx stones. These stones record the names of the twelve sons of Israel (Genesis 32:28; Exodus 1:1–5) by order of birth. Braided gold chains will connect the shoulder pieces to a jeweled breastpiece (Exodus 28:15). Only a high priest such as Aaron will wear this (Exodus 40:13–15).
The Lord will assign Aaron and his descendants to be Israel's priests (Numbers 3:10). In this chapter, God describes the priestly garments worn for this office. They are to be beautiful and made with great skill. A high priest's uniform included a breastpiece, a sleeveless smock called an "ephod," as well as a robe, coat, turban, and sash. Other priests wore caps, sashes, coats, and linen underclothes made for their roles. Some items are explained in detail. These garments embody various elements of worship under the Mosaic covenant.
