Exodus 39:6 They mounted the onyx stones in gold filigree settings and engraved them like a seal with the names of the sons of Israel.
At the time of Exodus, the opulence of the tabernacle was symbolic. In Exodus 36 we are told that “The people are bringing more than enough for doing the work the Lord commanded to be done” (Exodus 36:5)
Exodus 39:7 Then they fastened them on the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones for the sons of Israel, as the Lord commanded Moses.
The opulence came from the generous donations of the people, who were called to give and who gave generously. The tabernacle’s opulence is a testament to the work that God was doing in the hearts of the Israelites and a testament to the sacredness of the tabernacle as a space for God to dwell with His people.
Exodus 39:8 They fashioned the breastpiece—the work of a skilled craftsman. They made it like the ephod: of gold, and of blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and of finely twisted linen.
Precious Savior, Thank You for the reminder that the Israelites contributed from their own stores to the opulence of the tabernacle, that their giving, the tabernacle’s opulence, is a reminder of their generous donations to You. Thank You for the reminder that when I respond generously to Your call, You can use my gifts in extraordinary ways. Amen.
Exodus 39:9 It was square—a span long and a span wide—and folded double.
Have a blessed day.