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a span long and a span wide
A span, approximately nine inches, was a common ancient measurement based on the distance from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the little finger when the hand is fully extended. This specific measurement ensured that the breastpiece was both functional and symbolic. The size allowed it to hold the twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying the high priest's role in bearing the people before God. The use of a span as a measurement connects to the human element, as it is based on the human hand, highlighting the personal and relational aspect of the priestly ministry. This measurement also reflects the precision and care in the construction of the tabernacle and its furnishings, as detailed inExodus 25-31, underscoring the importance of following God's instructions meticulously.

• The breastpiece of judgment was to have equal length and width, creating a perfect square. This literal shape conveyed balance and equity—fitting for the garment that symbolized God’s just decisions carried close to the high priest’s heart (Exodus 28:29-30).

• Square design appears elsewhere in Scripture wherever God highlights perfection and order: the altar’s hearth was square (Ezekiel 43:16), and the New Jerusalem is laid out “as long and wide as it is high” (Revelation 21:16).

• By mirroring those later patterns, the breastpiece visually reminded Israel that God’s justice is unwavering, symmetrical, and complete (Proverbs 16:11).

• The instruction literally required the cloth to be folded to form a pocket-like pouch. Later verses reveal that the Urim and Thummim—tools for seeking God’s verdicts—were placed inside (Exodus 28:30;Leviticus 8:8).

• Folding doubled the thickness, giving structure strong enough to support the four rows of stones (Exodus 28:17-21).

• Doubling also kept the stones close to the priest’s heart on both the outside and the inside, echoing how Christ bears His people both outwardly before the Father and inwardly with compassion (Hebrews 4:14-16).

• A span was roughly the distance from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the little finger—about nine inches. Thus, after folding, the finished piece measured one span square.

• The modest size ensured it rested squarely over the priest’s chest without hindering his service, yet large enough to display the twelve gemstones representing the tribes (Exodus 28:21; 39:10-14).

• Precision in measurement reminds us that God values exact obedience (Exodus 25:40), and that every tribe—every believer today—is equally represented before Him (Galatians 3:28;1 Peter 2:9).

Exodus 28:16 gives precise, literal directions for crafting the priestly breastpiece: perfect square shape, doubled fabric, and specific dimensions. Each detail reflects God’s flawless justice, the secure bearing of His people close to His heart, and the call to meticulous obedience in worship.

Doubled.--Symmachus translateskhoshenby??????, "a receptacle" or "bag;" and if the Urim and the Thummim, being material objects, were to be "put in" it (Exodus 28:30), such a construction would seem to have been absolutely necessary. Hence the "doubling," which would not have been needed merely for strength, since linen corselets, stout enough to resist the blow of a sword, were among the manufactures of Egypt, and could no doubt have been produced by the Hebrews.

A span.--The "span" was reckoned at half a cubit, or about nine inches.