And the stones shall be with the names of the children of Israel, twelve, according to their names, like the engravings of a signet; every one with his name shall they be according to the twelve tribes.
The stones should have the names of the children of Israel on them, twelve stones, one for each name. They should be engraved like a signet ring, with each stone bearing the name of one of the twelve tribes.
God is instructing that twelve precious stones be engraved with the names of Israel's twelve tribes to be worn by the high priest as a constant reminder that he represents all of God's people.
📚 Historical Context
In the book of Exodus, God was giving Moses detailed instructions for the high priest's garments as part of establishing the Israelite worship system in the wilderness after their deliverance from Egypt. These twelve stones on the breastpiece were to be engraved with the names of the twelve tribes, symbolizing God's covenant relationship and His remembrance of each tribe as a unified people. This occurred during the time when the Tabernacle was being constructed, emphasizing the role of the priesthood in representing the nation before God.
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