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Exodus 28:9 - Kohen's gemstone names reminder

Exodus 28:9 - שמות 28:9

Hebrew Text

וְלָקַחְתָּ אֶת־שְׁתֵּי אַבְנֵי־שֹׁהַם וּפִתַּחְתָּ עֲלֵיהֶם שְׁמוֹת בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

And thou shalt take two shoham stones, and engrave on them the names of the children of Yisra᾽el:

Transliteration

Velakachta et-shtei avnei-shoham upitachta aleihem shemot bnei yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְלָ֣קַחְתָּ֔ אֶת־שְׁתֵּ֖י אַבְנֵי־שֹׁ֑הַם וּפִתַּחְתָּ֣ עֲלֵיהֶ֔ם שְׁמ֖וֹת בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃
וְלָ֣קַחְתָּ֔ אֶת־שְׁתֵּ֖י אַבְנֵי־שֹׁ֑הַם וּפִתַּחְתָּ֣ עֲלֵיהֶ֔ם שְׁמ֖וֹת בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

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Parasha Commentary

The Commandment of the Shoham Stones

The verse (Shemot 28:9) commands Moshe to take two shoham stones and engrave upon them the names of the twelve tribes of Yisrael. According to Rashi, these stones were part of the choshen mishpat (breastplate of judgment) worn by the Kohen Gadol. The shoham is identified by some commentators as a type of precious stone, possibly similar to onyx, known for its durability and beauty.

Significance of Engraving the Names

Rambam (Hilchos Klei HaMikdash 9:7) explains that the names of the tribes were engraved on these stones to symbolize that the Kohen Gadol carried the entire nation of Yisrael close to his heart when performing the avodah (Temple service). The Ibn Ezra adds that the engraving was done in reverse, like a signet ring, so that when pressed into wax or clay, the names would appear correctly—a sign of the permanence of the tribes' legacy.

The Twelve Tribes on Two Stones

The Talmud (Sotah 36a) discusses how the names of all twelve tribes were divided between the two stones. According to one opinion, six names were engraved on each stone, while another opinion suggests that all twelve names were written on each stone. The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 38:9) teaches that this arrangement symbolized the unity of Klal Yisrael, despite their individual distinctions.

The Spiritual Role of the Stones

The Kli Yakar emphasizes that the shoham stones served as a reminder of the divine covenant with the tribes. Just as the stones were unbreakable, so too was Hashem's bond with Bnei Yisrael unshakable. The Sforno adds that the placement of the stones on the shoulders of the Kohen Gadol (as part of the efod) represented the responsibility of leadership to bear the burdens of the people.

  • Rashi: The stones were part of the Kohen Gadol's attire, signifying representation before Hashem.
  • Rambam: The engraving symbolized the eternal connection between the tribes and the divine service.
  • Talmud: Debates the distribution of names, reflecting different aspects of unity.
  • Midrash: Highlights the stones as a metaphor for collective strength.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the 'shoham stones' mentioned in Exodus 28:9?
A: The 'shoham stones' (often translated as onyx stones) were precious stones used in the Kohen Gadol's (High Priest's) breastplate (Choshen). According to Rashi, these stones were engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, six names on each stone, and placed on the shoulders of the Kohen Gadol as a remembrance before Hashem.
Q: Why were the names of the tribes engraved on the stones?
A: The names of the tribes were engraved on the stones to symbolize that the Kohen Gadol carried the spiritual responsibility of all of Israel before Hashem. The Talmud (Sotah 36a) explains that this served as a constant reminder of the unity and importance of each tribe in the service of the Mishkan (Tabernacle).
Q: What is the significance of using two stones in Exodus 28:9?
A: The two stones represent the two foundational elements of the Jewish people: the physical descendants (the tribes) and the spiritual covenant (the Torah). Rambam (Hilchos Klei HaMikdash 9:9) explains that the doubling of the stones also emphasizes the complete representation of all twelve tribes, ensuring none were left out.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: Although we no longer have the Kohen Gadol or the breastplate, the message remains relevant: every Jew has a unique role in the collective mission of Klal Yisrael (the Jewish people). Just as the stones bore the names of all tribes, we must remember our shared responsibility and unity in serving Hashem.
Q: What can we learn from the engraving of the names on the stones?
A: The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 38:8) teaches that the engraving signifies permanence and dedication. Just as the names were deeply etched into the stones, our connection to Torah and our Jewish identity must be unwavering. It also teaches that every individual's name (and role) is precious and irreplaceable in the eyes of Hashem.