חֹשֶׁן
perhaps a pocket (as holding the Urim and Thummim), or rich (as containing gems)
Definition
The Hebrew word חֹשֶׁן (chôshen) refers specifically to the sacred breastplate worn by the high priest of Israel. It was a square, ornate pouch made of the same fine materials as the ephod, containing twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel (Exodus 28:15-21). Its primary function was to hold the Urim and Thummim, objects used for seeking God's judgment and decision (Exodus 28:30). The term is used exclusively for this high-priestly garment, emphasizing its unique role in the worship system.
Biblical Usage
The word חֹשֶׁן is used 21 times in the Old Testament, exclusively in Exodus (19 times), Leviticus (1 time), and Ecclesiasticus (Sirach 45:11, 1 time in the Apocrypha). Every usage describes the construction, components, or wearing of the high priest's breastplate. Key passages detailing its design and purpose are Exodus 28:15-30 and Exodus 39:8-21. It is always mentioned in direct connection with the priestly ephod and the ritual garments.
Etymology
Derived from an unused Hebrew root likely meaning 'to contain' or possibly 'to sparkle,' reflecting the breastplate's dual nature as a pouch (containing the Urim and Thummim) and a bejeweled, glittering object. The connection to containing is primary, as its essential function was to hold the sacred lots.
Semantic Range
The chôshen is theologically significant as a symbol of representation and divine communication. It visually represented Israel standing before God (the twelve stones for the twelve tribes, Exodus 28:21) and was the instrument through which God's will was sought via the Urim and Thummim (Numbers 27:21). It points to Christ as our ultimate High Priest who perfectly represents His people before God and reveals God's will. Understanding this term enriches reading by highlighting the intimacy and responsibility of the priestly mediatorial role.
In its ancient Near Eastern context, the high priest's breastplate was a uniquely Israelite cultic object. Unlike decorative royal breastplates in other cultures, its primary purpose was divination and representation before Yahweh. The intricate craftsmanship, use of specific gems, and incorporation of the Urim and Thummim set it apart as a holy instrument for the tabernacle/temple service, not merely regalia.
ephod (’êphôd, H646) — A related priestly garment, often a tunic or apron, to which the breastplate was attached. mîshôr (H4334) — A more general term for a 'plate' or 'tablet,' but not used for the priestly breastplate.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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