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Exodus 28:16 - Kohen's sacred square breastplate dimensions

Exodus 28:16 - שמות 28:16

Hebrew Text

רָבוּעַ יִהְיֶה כָּפוּל זֶרֶת אָרְכּוֹ וְזֶרֶת רָחְבּוֹ׃

English Translation

Foursquare it shall be, being doubled; a span shall be its length, and a span shall be the breadth of it.

Transliteration

Ravua yihiye kaful zeret arkho vezeret rakho.

Hebrew Leining Text

רָב֥וּעַ יִֽהְיֶ֖ה כָּפ֑וּל זֶ֥רֶת אׇרְכּ֖וֹ וְזֶ֥רֶת רׇחְבּֽוֹ׃
רָב֥וּעַ יִֽהְיֶ֖ה כָּפ֑וּל זֶ֥רֶת אׇרְכּ֖וֹ וְזֶ֥רֶת רׇחְבּֽוֹ׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

The verse (Shemot 28:16) describes the dimensions of the Choshen Mishpat (Breastplate of Judgment), one of the sacred garments worn by the Kohen Gadol (High Priest) in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and later in the Beit HaMikdash (Holy Temple). The Torah specifies that it must be "foursquare" (רָבוּעַ) and doubled (כָּפוּל), with each side measuring a zeret (span).

Explanation of "Foursquare" (רָבוּעַ)

Rashi (Shemot 28:16) explains that "foursquare" means the breastplate must be perfectly square in shape, with equal length and width. The Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 9:7) further clarifies that this symmetry reflects the precision and order required in divine service, symbolizing balance and harmony in carrying out judgment before Hashem.

Meaning of "Doubled" (כָּפוּל)

According to the Talmud (Yoma 72a), the term "doubled" indicates that the breastplate was folded in half, creating a pocket-like structure where the Urim v'Tumim (a divine oracle mechanism) was placed. The Midrash Tanchuma (Tetzaveh 10) adds that this doubling represents the dual nature of the breastplate—both as a garment of beauty and as an instrument of divine communication.

Measurement of a Zeret (Span)

The zeret is a biblical measurement, approximately half a cubit (amah). The Talmud (Eruvin 21b) discusses that a zeret is equivalent to the distance from the thumb to the little finger when the hand is fully extended. The precise measurement underscores the importance of exactness in fulfilling mitzvot, especially those related to the Mishkan.

Symbolism of the Breastplate

  • Divine Judgment: The square shape represents fairness and impartiality, as all sides are equal (Malbim, Shemot 28:16).
  • Connection to the Tribes: The twelve stones on the breastplate, representing the tribes of Israel, were arranged in four rows of three (Rashi, Shemot 28:17-21), further emphasizing the theme of divine order.
  • Duality of Function: The doubling reflects its dual role—both as a decorative priestly garment and as a medium for receiving divine guidance (Ramban, Shemot 28:15).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Exodus 28:16 mean when it says the breastplate should be 'foursquare'?
A: The verse describes the shape of the Choshen (breastplate) worn by the Kohen Gadol (High Priest). 'Foursquare' means it was a perfect square, with equal length and width. According to Rashi, it measured a zeret (span) in each direction, folded over to create a pocket for the Urim and Tumim.
Q: Why was the breastplate in Exodus 28:16 folded double?
A: The Talmud (Yoma 72a) explains that the breastplate was folded to create a pouch to hold the Urim and Tumim, which were used for divine communication. The doubling also gave the breastplate more substance and durability, as it was an important part of the Kohen Gadol's garments.
Q: What is a 'zeret' (span) as mentioned in Exodus 28:16?
A: A zeret is a biblical measurement equal to half an amah (cubit), approximately 9-10 inches (23-25 cm) according to traditional Jewish sources like the Rambam. The breastplate's dimensions being a zeret in length and width show it was a modest but significant size for its sacred purpose.
Q: What can we learn from the detailed description of the breastplate in Exodus 28:16?
A: The precise measurements teach us about the importance of hiddur mitzvah (beautifying commandments) in Jewish tradition. Just as the breastplate had exact specifications, we learn to perform mitzvot with care and attention to detail. The Midrash also notes that its square shape symbolizes stability and perfection in serving Hashem.