Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What do the stones in Exodus 39:11 represent?
A: The stones mentioned in Exodus 39:11 were part of the Kohen Gadol's (High Priest's) breastplate (Choshen Mishpat). According to Rashi and the Talmud (Sotah 36a), each stone corresponded to one of the 12 tribes of Israel, representing their unique spiritual qualities and connection to Hashem.
Q: Why were these specific stones chosen for the Kohen Gadol's breastplate?
A: The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 2:7) explains that each stone had special significance related to the tribe it represented. For example, the sapphire (sapir) was linked to the tribe of Yissachar, known for their Torah wisdom. The stones also reflected the colors of the tribes' banners and their ancestral roots, as taught in Kabbalistic sources like the Zohar.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: Although we no longer have the Kohen Gadol's breastplate, the Rambam (Hilchos Klei HaMikdash 9:7) teaches that these stones remind us of the unity of the Jewish people—each tribe had a unique role, yet all were part of one sacred whole. Today, we can learn to appreciate the diversity within our communities while working toward shared spiritual goals.
Q: What is the significance of the 'second row' of stones in this verse?
A: The breastplate had four rows of three stones each. The second row (nofech, sapir, and yahalom) corresponded to specific tribes (e.g., Yehudah, Yissachar, Zevulun). The Talmud (Yoma 73b) explains that the arrangement reflected divine wisdom, and the Kohen Gadol used the breastplate for seeking Hashem's guidance in matters affecting the nation.
The Stones of the Choshen (Breastplate)
The verse (Shemot 28:18) describes the second row of stones on the Choshen Mishpat (Breastplate of Judgment) worn by the Kohen Gadol (High Priest). According to Rashi, these stones corresponded to the tribes of Israel, with each stone representing a specific tribe. The second row contained nofech (turquoise), sapir (sapphire), and yahalom (diamond).
Symbolism of the Stones
Spiritual Significance
The Choshen served as a means of divine communication (see Shemot 28:30). The Zohar (Terumah 169a) teaches that each stone radiated unique spiritual energy, reflecting the virtues of the tribes they represented. The sapir, in particular, is linked to the tablets of the Ten Commandments (Shemot 24:10), emphasizing Torah as the foundation of Israel's covenant with Hashem.
Halachic Details
Rambam (Hilchos Klei HaMikdash 9:9) specifies that the stones were engraved with the names of the tribes and arranged in birth order. The Choshen was only effective when worn by the Kohen Gadol in service of the Beit HaMikdash, highlighting the sanctity of the priestly role in connecting Heaven and Earth.