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Exodus 39:15 - Golden chains for priestly splendor

Exodus 39:15 - שמות 39:15

Hebrew Text

וַיַּעֲשׂוּ עַל־הַחֹשֶׁן שַׁרְשְׁרֹת גַּבְלֻת מַעֲשֵׂה עֲבֹת זָהָב טָהוֹר׃

English Translation

And they made upon the breastplate plaited chains, of wreathen work of pure gold.

Transliteration

Va'ya'asu al-hakhoshen sharsh'rot gavlut ma'aseh avot zahav tahor.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיַּעֲשׂ֧וּ עַל־הַחֹ֛שֶׁן שַׁרְשְׁרֹ֥ת גַּבְלֻ֖ת מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה עֲבֹ֑ת זָהָ֖ב טָהֽוֹר׃
וַיַּעֲשׂ֧וּ עַל־הַחֹ֛שֶׁן שַׁרְשְׁרֹ֥ת גַּבְלֻ֖ת מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה עֲבֹ֑ת זָהָ֖ב טָהֽוֹר׃

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Parasha Commentary

The Construction of the Choshen's Chains

The verse describes the creation of the chains (sharsherot) for the Choshen (breastplate) of the Kohen Gadol. These chains were intricately woven (gavlut ma'aseh avot) from pure gold. Rashi (Shemot 28:22) explains that the term gavlut refers to a thick, braided chain, while avot indicates a twisted or woven design, resembling a rope. This emphasizes the craftsmanship and durability required for the sacred garments.

Symbolism of the Golden Chains

The Rambam (Hilchos Klei HaMikdash 9:7) notes that the chains served both a functional and symbolic purpose. They connected the Choshen to the Ephod, ensuring the breastplate remained securely in place during the Kohen Gadol's service. Midrash Tanchuma (Tetzaveh 10) suggests that the pure gold symbolizes the unbroken bond between the Jewish people and Hashem, as gold represents purity and enduring value.

The Craftsmanship and Halachic Requirements

  • Material: The chains had to be made of zahav tahor (pure gold), as specified in the verse. The Talmud (Yoma 71b) teaches that any deviation in materials invalidates the sanctity of the priestly garments.
  • Technique: The weaving (ma'aseh avot) required skilled artisans, as emphasized in Shemot 28:3, where Betzalel and Oholiav were endowed with divine wisdom for this task.
  • Function: The chains were not merely decorative but held the Choshen</em firmly against the Ephod, ensuring the Urim v'Tumim could function properly (Ramban, Shemot 28:22).

Spiritual Lessons

The Kli Yakar (Shemot 28:22) draws a parallel between the intertwined chains and the unity of the Jewish people. Just as the chains were tightly woven, so too must the bonds between Jews be strong and unbreakable. Additionally, the gold's purity reflects the sincerity required in divine service—free from ulterior motives.

📚 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 making of the priestly garments, particularly the breastplate (Choshen).
📖 Zevachim 88b
Mentioned in the context of the priestly vestments and their significance in the Temple service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the 'breastplate' mentioned in Exodus 39:15?
A: The breastplate (חֹשֶׁן - 'Choshen') was a sacred garment worn by the Kohen Gadol (High Priest) in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). It contained twelve precious stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel (Shemot 28:15-21). Rashi explains that it was called 'Choshen Mishpat' (Breastplate of Judgment) because it helped clarify divine decisions.
Q: Why were the chains on the breastplate made of pure gold?
A: Pure gold (זָהָב טָהוֹר) symbolizes purity and holiness in Jewish tradition. The Rambam (Hilchos Klei HaMikdash 9:1) explains that all vessels and garments in the Mishkan required the highest quality materials to honor the Divine Presence. The golden chains connected the breastplate to the ephod (apron), showing the unity of the Kohen Gadol's service.
Q: What is the significance of the 'plaited chains' in this verse?
A: The plaited chains (שַׁרְשְׁרֹת גַּבְלֻת) were intricately woven to securely attach the breastplate. The Talmud (Yoma 72a) teaches that this craftsmanship reflects the importance of every detail in avodas Hashem (divine service). Just as the chains were carefully made, we must approach mitzvos with precision and care.
Q: How does this verse about the breastplate apply to us today?
A: Although we no longer have the breastplate, the Midrash (Tanchuma Tetzaveh 10) teaches that its message endures: Just as the breastplate represented the unity of the tribes, we must strive for Jewish unity. Additionally, the gold's purity reminds us to perform mitzvos with sincerity (Rambam, Hilchos Teshuvah 10:2).
Q: What does 'wreathen work' (מַעֲשֵׂה עֲבֹת) mean in this context?
A: 'Wreathen work' refers to an ancient braiding technique where gold threads were twisted together into strong cords. Rashi (on Shemot 28:14) notes this was a special skill requiring wisdom (חָכְמָה), teaching that even the 'technical' aspects of holiness demand our full dedication and expertise.