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Exodus 28:23 - Golden rings connect divine guidance

Exodus 28:23 - שמות 28:23

Hebrew Text

וְעָשִׂיתָ עַל־הַחֹשֶׁן שְׁתֵּי טַבְּעוֹת זָהָב וְנָתַתָּ אֶת־שְׁתֵּי הַטַּבָּעוֹת עַל־שְׁנֵי קְצוֹת הַחֹשֶׁן׃

English Translation

And thou shalt make upon the breastplate two rings of gold, and shalt put the two rings on the two ends of the breastplate.

Transliteration

Ve'asita al-hakhoshen shtey taba'ot zahav venatata et-shtey hataba'ot al-shney ktzot hakhoshen.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְעָשִׂ֙יתָ֙ עַל־הַחֹ֔שֶׁן שְׁתֵּ֖י טַבְּע֣וֹת זָהָ֑ב וְנָתַתָּ֗ אֶת־שְׁתֵּי֙ הַטַּבָּע֔וֹת עַל־שְׁנֵ֖י קְצ֥וֹת הַחֹֽשֶׁן׃
וְעָשִׂ֙יתָ֙ עַל־הַחֹ֔שֶׁן שְׁתֵּ֖י טַבְּע֣וֹת זָהָ֑ב וְנָתַתָּ֗ אֶת־שְׁתֵּי֙ הַטַּבָּע֔וֹת עַל־שְׁנֵ֖י קְצ֥וֹת הַחֹֽשֶׁן׃

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Parasha Commentary

The Purpose of the Golden Rings on the Choshen

The verse (Shemot 28:23) commands the creation of two golden rings attached to the Choshen (breastplate) of the Kohen Gadol. According to Rashi, these rings served a practical function—they connected the Choshen to the Ephod (the apron-like garment) via golden chains, ensuring the breastplate remained securely in place during the Kohen Gadol's service in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). The positioning of the rings on the "two ends" (שְׁנֵי קְצוֹת) emphasizes balance and symmetry, reflecting the precision required in Avodat HaKodesh (holy service).

Symbolism of the Gold Rings

Rambam (Hilchos Klei HaMikdash 9:7) explains that gold, being the most precious metal used in the Mishkan, symbolizes purity and divine wisdom. The two rings may allude to the dual nature of the Kohen Gadol's role:

  • Representing the People: The Choshen bore the names of the twelve tribes, signifying the Kohen Gadol's duty to advocate for Klal Yisrael before Hashem.
  • Divine Connection: The rings linked the Choshen to the Ephod, which contained the Urim v'Tumim, representing divine communication.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash Tanchuma (Tetzaveh 10) elaborates that the rings signify the unbroken bond between Hashem and Bnei Yisrael—just as a ring has no end, so too is the covenant eternal. Additionally, the Talmud (Yoma 72a) teaches that the Choshen atoned for errors in judgment, and the golden rings may symbolize the refinement (like gold) needed in judicial matters.

Structural Significance

Rabbeinu Bachya notes that the rings were placed on the upper corners of the Choshen, indicating that spiritual aspirations (represented by the upward placement) must be anchored in tangible mitzvot (the physical connection to the Ephod). This reflects the principle of Torah im Derech Eretz—combining heavenly ideals with earthly action.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Yoma 72a
The verse is discussed in the context of the High Priest's breastplate (Choshen) and its construction, as part of the broader discussion on the priestly garments.
📖 Zevachim 88b
Mentioned in relation to the details of the priestly garments and their significance in the Temple service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the significance of the gold rings on the breastplate (Choshen)?
A: The gold rings on the breastplate (Choshen) were essential for attaching it to the ephod (a priestly garment), ensuring it stayed securely in place during service in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). According to Rashi, these rings symbolize the unbreakable connection between the Kohen Gadol (High Priest) and his sacred duties.
Q: Why were there specifically two rings on the breastplate?
A: The two rings correspond to the two straps of the ephod, creating a balanced and secure attachment. The Talmud (Zevachim 19a) explains that the precise design ensured the breastplate would not move loosely, reflecting the importance of stability in divine service.
Q: What can we learn from the detail in the construction of the breastplate?
A: The Torah's detailed instructions teach us the value of precision and care in fulfilling mitzvot (commandments). The Rambam (Hilchos Klei HaMikdash 9:7) emphasizes that every aspect of the Mishkan's vessels had spiritual meaning, reminding us to approach divine service with mindfulness and devotion.
Q: How does the breastplate (Choshen) apply to us today?
A: While we no longer have the Temple service, the Choshen reminds us of the importance of carrying Torah wisdom close to our hearts. The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 38:9) compares the Choshen's stones to the Twelve Tribes, teaching unity and the responsibility to uphold Jewish tradition.