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Exodus 28:14 - Golden chains for priestly holiness?

Hebrew Text

וּשְׁתֵּי שַׁרְשְׁרֹת זָהָב טָהוֹר מִגְבָּלֹת תַּעֲשֶׂה אֹתָם מַעֲשֵׂה עֲבֹת וְנָתַתָּה אֶת־שַׁרְשְׁרֹת הָעֲבֹתֹת עַל־הַמִּשְׁבְּצֹת׃

English Translation

and two chains of pure gold at the ends; of wreathen work shalt thou make them, and fasten the wreathen chains to the fixtures.

Transliteration

Ushtei sharsh'rot zahav tahor migbalot ta'aseh otam ma'aseh avot v'natata et-sharsh'rot ha'avotot al-hamishb'tzot.

Hebrew Leining Text

וּשְׁתֵּ֤י שַׁרְשְׁרֹת֙ זָהָ֣ב טָה֔וֹר מִגְבָּלֹ֛ת תַּעֲשֶׂ֥ה אֹתָ֖ם מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה עֲבֹ֑ת וְנָתַתָּ֛ה אֶת־שַׁרְשְׁרֹ֥ת הָעֲבֹתֹ֖ת עַל־הַֽמִּשְׁבְּצֹֽת׃ <span class="mam-spi-samekh">{ס}</span>        
וּשְׁתֵּ֤י שַׁרְשְׁרֹת֙ זָהָ֣ב טָה֔וֹר מִגְבָּלֹ֛ת תַּעֲשֶׂ֥ה אֹתָ֖ם מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה עֲבֹ֑ת וְנָתַתָּ֛ה אֶת־שַׁרְשְׁרֹ֥ת הָעֲבֹתֹ֖ת עַל־הַֽמִּשְׁבְּצֹֽת׃ {ס}        

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Verse Context: The Choshen Mishpat (Breastplate of Judgment)

The verse (Shemot 28:14) describes the golden chains ("shtei sharsherot zahav tahor") that were to be attached to the Choshen Mishpat, the High Priest's breastplate. These chains connected the breastplate to the Efod (a priestly garment), ensuring it remained securely in place during service in the Mishkan (Tabernacle).

Rashi's Explanation: The Nature of the Chains

Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) comments that these chains were made in a "ma'aseh avot" (wreathen or twisted work), meaning they were braided or woven like ropes rather than formed as simple links. This technique made them stronger and more ornate, befitting the sanctity of the priestly garments.

Rambam's Halachic Perspective

In Hilchos Klei HaMikdash (9:5), the Rambam (Maimonides) explains that these golden chains were essential for the proper wearing of the Choshen. Without them, the breastplate would not be considered fully fashioned according to the Torah's requirements, invalidating the Kohen Gadol's service.

Symbolism of the Chains

  • Connection Between Heaven and Earth: The Midrash (Tanchuma, Tetzaveh 10) suggests the chains symbolize the unbroken connection between the Kohen Gadol's service and Divine favor, much like the unbroken chain of tradition from Har Sinai.
  • Purity of Intent: The zahav tahor (pure gold) represents the Kohen Gadol's need for sincerity and purity in his avodah (service), as gold is unalloyed and uncorrupted.

The Mishna's Practical Details

The Mishna in Yoma (72a) describes how these chains were threaded through rings on the Choshen and Efod, ensuring the breastplate rested securely over the Kohen Gadol's heart—a reminder that his service must be wholehearted (see Devarim 6:5).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Yoma 72a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the craftsmanship and materials used in the construction of the priestly garments, particularly the ephod and breastplate.
📖 Zevachim 88b
The verse is cited in a broader discussion about the details of the priestly garments and their significance in the Temple service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What do the golden chains in Exodus 28:14 represent?
A: The golden chains (שַׁרְשְׁרֹת זָהָב) mentioned in Exodus 28:14 were part of the High Priest's (Kohen Gadol) breastplate (Choshen). According to Rashi, these chains connected the breastplate to the ephod (a priestly garment), symbolizing the inseparable bond between the spiritual leadership (represented by the breastplate) and divine service (represented by the ephod).
Q: Why were the chains made of pure gold in this verse?
A: Pure gold (זָהָב טָהוֹר) was used because it represents purity and holiness in Jewish tradition. The Rambam explains that materials used for sacred items in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) had to be of the highest quality to reflect the honor due to divine service. Gold also symbolizes enduring value, just as the Torah and mitzvot are eternal.
Q: What does 'wreathen work' (מַעֲשֵׂה עֲבֹת) mean in Exodus 28:14?
A: The term 'wreathen work' (מַעֲשֵׂה עֲבֹת) refers to chains that were intricately braided or twisted, as explained by Rashi. This craftsmanship demonstrated the beauty and care put into sacred objects. The Talmud (Yoma 72a) teaches that just as these chains were carefully made, we should approach mitzvot with diligence and attention to detail.
Q: How does Exodus 28:14 apply to us today?
A: While we no longer have the Temple or the High Priest's garments, the verse teaches timeless lessons. The Midrash Tanchuma notes that the interconnected chains remind us of the unity of the Jewish people and our connection to Torah. Just as the chains held the breastplate securely, we must 'hold fast' to our traditions and values.
Q: What was the purpose of the chains on the High Priest's breastplate?
A: According to the Talmud (Zevachim 88b), the chains served both a practical and symbolic purpose. Practically, they secured the breastplate to the ephod. Symbolically, they represented the 'chains' of responsibility borne by the Kohen Gadol as the spiritual leader of Israel. The Sforno adds that they also alluded to the interconnectedness of all the tribes of Israel, whose names were inscribed on the breastplate.