Hebrew Text · Translation · Interlinear · Discourse Structure

The Book of Exodus, Chapter 28שמות 28

Each verse opens with the running Hebrew, an English translation, and a discourse note (its connective, relation, and role in the argument). Below follows the word-by-word breakdown in six tiers: gloss, case/state or parsing, syntax, semantic force, and a lexical note.

Case Nominative Genitive Dative Accusative Vocative Verb (no case) Indeclinable

Discourse notes head each verse: relation · connective · clause-flow. Indentation marks prominence — flush-left = main line of argument; indented = supporting / subordinate material.

Theme

Aaron and his sons are vested for priesthood: the ephod bearing Israel's tribes on memorial stones, the jeweled breastpiece of judgment housing the Urim and Thummim, the bell-hemmed robe guarding against death, and the golden plate inscribed 'Holy to YHWH,' bearing the guilt of Israel's imperfect offerings.

Translation & textual notes

Exodus 28 is preserved in the Masoretic Text with unusual textual stability for so technical a chapter, though several cruxes remain. Most conspicuous is the ketiv-qere at v.28 (מטבעתו / מִטַּבְּעֹתָיו), where the consonantal ketiv gives a singular-looking form and the qere supplies the plural pointing required by the surrounding syntax — a minor scribal correction, not a substantive variant. More significant for interpretation is the sheer number of hapax legomena and rare technical terms clustered in this chapter: the twelve gemstone names (vv.17-20) are notoriously difficult to map onto modern mineralogical categories, since Hebrew classified stones by color, luster, and source rather than crystal structure — hence the wide divergence between ancient versions (LXX, Vulgate, Targumim) in rendering נֹפֶךְ, לֶשֶׁם, שְׁבוֹ, יָהֲלֹם and others. The garment term תַּחְרָא (v.32, 'coat of mail' or similar) and the fastening verb יִזַּח (v.28, 'come loose') are each otherwise unattested or nearly so in the Hebrew Bible, and their precise sense is inferred from context, cognate Semitic roots, and ancient versions rather than from parallel biblical usage. The Urim and Thummim (v.30) are named but never described — their physical form is simply presupposed, a silence the MT preserves faithfully rather than smoothing over. The chapter's exact parallel in Exodus 39:1-31 (recording the garments' actual fabrication) confirms the received text's details at nearly every point, the two passages functioning as a command-fulfillment pair typical of the Priestly source's compositional technique.

1

וְאַתָּ֡ה הַקְרֵ֣ב אֵלֶיךָ֩ אֶת אַהֲרֹ֨ן אָחִ֜יךָ וְאֶת בָּנָ֣יו אִתּ֔וֹ מִתּ֛וֹךְ בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לְכַהֲנוֹ לִ֑י אַהֲרֹ֕ן נָדָ֧ב וַאֲבִיה֛וּא אֶלְעָזָ֥ר וְאִיתָמָ֖ר בְּנֵ֥י אַהֲרֹֽן

And you, bring near to you Aaron your brother, and his sons with him, from among the Israelites, to serve me as priest — Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, the sons of Aaron.

New directive (topic shift)asyndeton
Opens a new divine speech to Moses (cf. 25:1; 28:3), fronting 'you' in emphatic contrast to the preceding furnishings instructions; introduces the priesthood as the chapter's subject and names all five men before any garment is described.
Word-by-word analysis· 21 words
וְאַתָּ֡הand youconj וְ + independent pron 2ms · אַתָּה (H859)Fronted subject (resumptive of divine address)אַתָּה (H859) 2ms independent pronoun 'you'; fronted for emphasis, resuming direct address to Moses begun in ch.25.
הַקְרֵ֣בbring nearHiphil impv 2ms · קָרַב (H7126)Predicate verb (imperative, main clause)→ Volitional: imperative commandקָרַב (H7126) Hiphil 'to bring near, present'; used of priestly consecration — bringing Aaron near to God's service.
אֵלֶיךָ֩to youprep אֶל + Sp2ms · אֶל (H413)Adverbial complement of הַקְרֵב (goal)אֶל (H413) 'to, toward'; with 2ms suffix, directional complement of the imperative.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi marking the definite object אַהֲרֹן.
אַהֲרֹ֨ןAaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)Direct object of הַקְרֵבאַהֲרֹן (H175), Moses' brother, chosen as first high priest of Israel.
אָחִ֜יךָyour brotherN m sg constr + Sp2ms · אָח (H251)Apposition to אַהֲרֹןאָח (H251) 'brother'; construct + 2ms suffix, identifying Aaron's relation to Moses.
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + direct-object marker (second object)וְ joins the second object; אֵת marks בָּנָיו as definite object.
בָּנָ֣יוhis sonsN m pl constr + Sp3ms · בנ (H1121)Direct object (second object of הַקְרֵב)בֵן (H1121) 'son'; plural construct with 3ms suffix, 'his sons' referring to Aaron's sons.
אִתּ֔וֹwith himprep אֵת + Sp3ms · אֵת (H854)Adverbial prepositional phrase (accompaniment)אֵת (H854) 'with'; distinct from the obj-marker אֵת (H853) though spelled the same; expresses accompaniment.
מִתּ֛וֹךְfrom amongprep מִן + N m sg constr · תָוֶךְ (H8432)Adverbial prepositional phrase (source)תָוֶךְ (H8432) 'midst, middle'; with מִן, 'from among' — Aaron and sons are drawn out of Israel for a distinct office.
בְּנֵ֥יsons ofN m pl constr · בֵן (H1121)Construct chain (genitival), governed by מִתּוֹךְבֵן (H1121) 'son'; construct plural governing יִשְׂרָאֵל, 'sons of Israel' = the Israelite people.
יִשְׂרָאֵ֖לIsraelproper noun · יִשְׂרָאֵל (H3478)Genitive complement in construct chainיִשְׂרָאֵל (H3478), the covenant people, named for Jacob's wrestling with God (Gen 32).
לְכַהֲנוֹto serve as priestprep לְ + Piel inf constr + Sp3ms · כָהַן (H3547)Purpose infinitive clause (subject Aaron/sons)→ Infinitival: purpose — the goal of being brought nearכָהַן (H3547) Piel 'to act as priest, minister'; the inf. constr. with לְ expresses purpose: brought near in order to serve as priest.
לִ֑יto meprep לְ + Sp1cs · לְAdverbial complement (dative of interest) of לְכַהֲנולְ 'to, for'; 1cs suffix, marking YHWH as the one served — 'serve as priest to/for me.'
אַהֲרֹ֕ןAaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)Resumptive apposition, heading the list of namesאַהֲרֹן (H175); repeated to introduce the roll call of Aaron and his four sons.
נָדָ֧בNadabproper noun · נָדָב (H5070)Apposition (first son named)נָדָב (H5070) 'noble, willing'; Aaron's firstborn, later struck down for offering 'strange fire' (Lev 10).
וַאֲבִיה֛וּאand Abihuconj וְ + proper noun · אֲבִיא (H30)Apposition (second son named)אֲבִיא (H30) 'he is my father'; Aaron's second son, also died with Nadab (Lev 10).
אֶלְעָזָ֥רEleazarproper noun · אֶלְעָזָר (H499)Apposition (third son named)אֶלְעָזָר (H499) 'God has helped'; Aaron's third son, later succeeds him as high priest (Num 20:28).
וְאִיתָמָ֖רand Ithamarconj וְ + proper noun · אִיתָמָר (H385)Apposition (fourth son named)אִיתָמָר (H385), etymology uncertain; Aaron's youngest son, later oversees Gershonite and Merarite Levites (Num 4).
בְּנֵ֥יsons ofN m pl constr · בֵן (H1121)Construct chain summarizing the listבֵן (H1121) 'son'; construct summarizing the preceding four names as 'the sons of Aaron.'
אַהֲרֹֽןAaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)Genitive complement, closing the verseאַהֲרֹן (H175); closes the verse, framing the five names as Aaron-and-sons.
2

וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ בִגְדֵי קֹ֖דֶשׁ לְאַהֲרֹ֣ן אָחִ֑יךָ לְכָב֖וֹד וּלְתִפְאָֽרֶת

And you shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother, for glory and for beauty.

Result/continuation of the command to bring Aaron nearוְ
Weqatal continues the main instructional line begun in v.1, stating the purpose of the whole chapter: garments 'for glory and for beauty' establish that priestly dress is theological communication, not mere function.
Word-by-word analysis· 7 words
וְעָשִׂ֥יתָand you shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (weqatal, continuing instruction)→ Weqatal: continuation of the divine command — future obligationעָשָׂה (H6213) 'to make, do'; the chapter's structuring verb, repeated as a refrain ('you shall make…') through the garment instructions.
בִגְדֵיgarments ofN m pl constr · בֶגֶד (H899)Direct object (construct chain, genitival)בֶגֶד (H899) 'garment, covering'; construct plural governing קֹדֶשׁ, 'holy garments' — vestments set apart for sacred service.
קֹ֖דֶשׁof holinessN m sg abs (genitive use) · קֹדֶשׁ (H6944)Genitive complement in construct chain (attributive)קֹדֶשׁ (H6944) 'holiness, sacredness', from קדש 'to be set apart'; the garments themselves are consecrated, sharing Aaron's sanctified status.
לְאַהֲרֹ֣ןfor Aaronprep לְ + proper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)Adverbial prepositional phrase (beneficiary)אַהֲרֹן (H175); dative of advantage, the garments are made 'for' him.
אָחִ֑יךָyour brotherN m sg constr + Sp2ms · אָח (H251)Apposition to אַהֲרֹןאָח (H251) 'brother'; reasserts Moses–Aaron kinship, softening the transfer of unique access to God to another man.
לְכָב֖וֹדfor gloryprep לְ + N c sg abs · כָבוֹד (H3519)Adverbial prepositional phrase (purpose)כָבוֹד (H3519) 'glory, honor, weightiness', from כבד 'to be heavy'; the garments visibly communicate the dignity of the priestly office.
וּלְתִפְאָֽרֶתand for beautyconj וְ + prep לְ + N f sg abs · תִּפְאֶרֶת (H8597)Adverbial prepositional phrase (purpose), coordinate with לְכָבוֹדתִּפְאֶרֶת (H8597) 'beauty, splendor', from פאר 'to beautify'; paired with כָבוֹד, the standard hendiadys for priestly vestments' function (cf. Isa 4:2).
3

וְאַתָּ֗ה תְּדַבֵּר֙ אֶל כָּל חַכְמֵי לֵ֔ב אֲשֶׁ֥ר מִלֵּאתִ֖יו ר֣וּחַ חָכְמָ֑ה וְעָשׂ֞וּ אֶת בִּגְדֵ֧י אַהֲרֹ֛ן לְקַדְּשׁ֖וֹ לְכַהֲנוֹ לִֽי

And you shall speak to all who are wise of heart, whom I have filled with a spirit of wisdom, that they shall make Aaron's garments, to consecrate him, that he may serve me as priest.

New instruction (introduces the craftsmen)וְ
Shifts focus from Aaron (vv.1–2) to the human agents of construction, crediting their skill to divine gift; the chained purpose infinitives (לְקַדְּשׁוֹ…לְכַהֲנו־לִי) tie the artisanry directly to consecration and priestly service.
Word-by-word analysis· 17 words
וְאַתָּ֗הand youconj וְ + independent pron 2ms · אַתָּה (H859)Fronted subject (emphatic, resuming address)אַתָּה (H859); fronted again as in v.1, marking a new stage of Moses' commissioned role — now to enlist skilled craftsmen.
תְּדַבֵּר֙you shall speakPiel impf 2ms · דָּבַר (H1696)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: imperfective/modal — instruction toward future actionדָּבַר (H1696) Piel 'to speak, command'; Moses is to commission the artisans, mediating instructions from God to the workers.
אֶלtoprep · אֶל (H413)Adverbial prepositional phrase (addressee)אֶל (H413) 'to, toward', marking the recipients of Moses' speech.
כָּלallN m sg constr · כֹּל (H3605)Construct head, quantifier of חַכְמֵי־לֵבכֹּל (H3605) 'all, every'; construct governing חַכְמֵי לֵב, totalizing the class of skilled craftsmen.
חַכְמֵיthe wise (ones) ofadj m pl constr · חָכָם (H2450)Genitive complement, head of construct with לֵבחָכָם (H2450) 'wise, skillful'; here of craft-skill rather than moral wisdom — technical/artistic expertise.
לֵ֔בheartN m sg abs · לֵב (H3820)Genitive complement in construct chainלֵב (H3820) 'heart, mind'; in Hebrew the seat of skill and understanding — 'wise of heart' = skilled craftsmen, cf. 31:6.
אֲשֶׁ֥רwhomrelative particle · אֲשֶׁר (H834)Relative pronoun, introducing relative clause modifying חַכְמֵי־לֵבאֲשֶׁר (H834) relative particle 'who, which, that'; introduces the clause crediting God as source of their skill.
מִלֵּאתִ֖יוI have filled himPiel perf 1cs + Sp3ms · מָלֵא (H4390)Predicate verb of relative clause→ Perfective: a completed divine endowmentמָלֵא (H4390) Piel 'to fill'; God fills the craftsmen with skill as he later fills Bezalel with the Spirit (31:3) — craft skill as divine gift, not mere human talent.
ר֣וּחַa spirit ofN c sg constr · רוּחַ (H7307)Direct object (construct chain)רוּחַ (H7307) 'spirit, wind, breath'; construct with חָכְמָה, 'spirit of wisdom' — the endowment is quasi-charismatic, not merely learned.
חָכְמָ֑הwisdomN f sg abs · חָכְמָה (H2451)Genitive complement in construct chainחָכְמָה (H2451) 'wisdom, skill'; technical/artistic competence for sacred work, paralleling the term used of Bezalel and Oholiab.
וְעָשׂ֞וּand they shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 3cp (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (weqatal, purpose/result of Moses' speaking)→ Weqatal: purpose result — the craftsmen's resultant actionעָשָׂה (H6213) 'to make'; the craftsmen execute what Moses commissions, per the divine design already fixed (cf. 25:9).
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) marks בִּגְדֵי אַהֲרֹן as definite direct object.
בִּגְדֵ֧יgarments ofN m pl constr · בֶגֶד (H899)Direct object (construct chain)בֶגֶד (H899); construct governing אַהֲרֹן, 'Aaron's garments.'
אַהֲרֹ֛ןAaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)Genitive complement in construct chainאַהֲרֹן (H175); the garments' owner/wearer, object of the craftsmen's labor.
לְקַדְּשׁ֖וֹto consecrate himprep לְ + Piel inf constr + Sp3ms · קָדַשׁ (H6942)Purpose infinitive clause→ Infinitival: purpose — the goal of making the garmentsקָדַשׁ (H6942) Piel 'to consecrate, make holy'; the garments function instrumentally in Aaron's ordination (cf. Lev 8).
לְכַהֲנוֹto serve as priestprep לְ + Piel inf constr + Sp3ms · כָהַן (H3547)Purpose infinitive clause, coordinate with לְקַדְּשׁוֹ→ Infinitival: purpose — ultimate goal, priestly serviceכָהַן (H3547) Piel 'to act as priest'; the chained infinitives consecrate→serve trace the garments' ultimate function.
לִֽיto meprep לְ + Sp1cs · לְAdverbial complement of לְכַהֲנולְ 'to, for', 1cs suffix; the priesthood serves YHWH specifically, echoing v.1.
4

וְאֵ֨לֶּה הַבְּגָדִ֜ים אֲשֶׁ֣ר יַעֲשׂ֗וּ חֹ֤שֶׁן וְאֵפוֹד֙ וּמְעִ֔יל וּכְתֹ֥נֶת תַּשְׁבֵּ֖ץ מִצְנֶ֣פֶת וְאַבְנֵ֑ט וְעָשׂ֨וּ בִגְדֵי קֹ֜דֶשׁ לְאַהֲרֹ֥ן אָחִ֛יךָ וּלְבָנָ֖יו לְכַהֲנוֹ לִֽי

And these are the garments that they shall make: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a checkered tunic, a turban, and a sash. They shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother and his sons, that he may serve me as priest.

Itemization (nominal clause introduces a list)וְ
A nominal clause ('these are the garments…') fronts a six-item inventory that structures the rest of the chapter (ephod vv.6–14; breastpiece vv.15–30; robe vv.31–35; plate vv.36–38; tunic/turban/sash vv.39–43); the weqatal וְעָשׂוֹ resumes the main instructional line after the list.
Word-by-word analysis· 19 words
וְאֵ֨לֶּהand theseconj וְ + demonstrative pron cp · אֵלֶּה (H428)Predicate nominative (fronted, introduces list)אֵלֶּה (H428) 'these'; demonstrative introducing the itemized list of six garments.
הַבְּגָדִ֜יםthe garmentsart + N m pl abs · בֶגֶד (H899)Subject of nominal clauseבֶגֶד (H899) 'garment'; definite plural, the subject resumed by the relative clause.
אֲשֶׁ֣רthatrelative particle · אֲשֶׁר (H834)Relative pronoun, modifying הַבְּגָדִיםאֲשֶׁר (H834); introduces the relative clause specifying the garments to be made.
יַעֲשׂ֗וּthey shall makeQal impf 3mp · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb of relative clause→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptive instructionעָשָׂה (H6213) 'to make'; subject is the craftsmen of v.3.
חֹ֤שֶׁןa breastpieceN m sg abs · חֹשֶׁן (H2833)Direct object (first item, apposition to הַבְּגָדִים)חֹשֶׁן (H2833) 'breastpiece, pouch'; the ornate pectoral worn over the ephod bearing the twelve tribal gemstones and the Urim and Thummim (vv.15–30).
וְאֵפוֹד֙and an ephodconj וְ + N m sg abs · אֵפוֹד (H646)Direct object (second item)אֵפוֹד (H646) 'ephod', a loanword of uncertain origin (cf. Akkadian epattu); a richly woven apron-like vestment with shoulder-pieces to which the breastpiece attaches.
וּמְעִ֔ילand a robeconj וְ + N m sg abs · מְעִיל (H4598)Direct object (third item)מְעִיל (H4598) 'robe, mantle'; a sleeveless blue outer robe worn under the ephod, hemmed with pomegranates and bells (vv.31–35).
וּכְתֹ֥נֶתand a tunic ofconj וְ + N f sg constr · כְּתֹנֶת (H3801)Direct object (fourth item), construct with תַשְׁבֵּץכְּתֹנֶת (H3801) 'tunic'; the basic garment worn next to the body, here in construct, 'a tunic of checker-work.'
תַּשְׁבֵּ֖ץchecker workN m sg abs · תַשְׁבֵּץ (H8665)Genitive complement in construct chainתַשְׁבֵּץ (H8665) 'checkered/settings work', from שבץ 'to interweave, plait'; describes the tunic's woven pattern (cf. v.39).
מִצְנֶ֣פֶתa turbanN f sg abs · מִצְנֶפֶת (H4701)Direct object (fifth item)מִצְנֶפֶת (H4701) 'turban', from צנף 'to wind, wrap'; the linen headdress bearing the golden plate (vv.36–38).
וְאַבְנֵ֑טand a sashconj וְ + N m sg abs · אַבְנֵט (H73)Direct object (sixth item)אַבְנֵט (H73) 'sash, belt' (loanword); the woven girdle binding the tunic (v.39).
וְעָשׂ֨וּand they shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 3cp (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (weqatal, resuming main instruction)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); resumes the main command after the parenthetical list, restating the purpose.
בִגְדֵיgarments ofN m pl constr · בֶגֶד (H899)Direct object (construct chain)בֶגֶד (H899); construct with קֹדֶשׁ, 'holy garments,' as in v.2.
קֹ֜דֶשׁholinessN m sg abs (genitive use) · קֹדֶשׁ (H6944)Genitive complement in construct chainקֹדֶשׁ (H6944); as in v.2, marking the garments as sacred, set apart for sanctuary service.
לְאַהֲרֹ֥ןfor Aaronprep לְ + proper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)Adverbial prepositional phrase (beneficiary)אַהֲרֹן (H175); recipient of the garments, as in v.2.
אָחִ֛יךָyour brotherN m sg constr + Sp2ms · אָח (H251)Apposition to אַהֲרֹןאָח (H251) 'brother'; repeated kinship reminder.
וּלְבָנָ֖יוand for his sonsconj וְ + prep לְ + N m pl constr + Sp3ms · בֵן (H1121)Adverbial prepositional phrase, coordinate beneficiaryבֵן (H1121) 'son'; extends the garment-provision beyond Aaron to his sons (cf. vv.40–43 for their simpler garments).
לְכַהֲנוֹto serve as priestprep לְ + Piel inf constr + Sp3ms · כָהַן (H3547)Purpose infinitive clause→ Infinitival: purposeכָהַן (H3547); purpose clause as in vv.1,3.
לִֽיto meprep לְ + Sp1cs · לְAdverbial complement of לְכַהֲנולְ 1cs suffix, 'to me' — YHWH again named as the one served.
5

וְהֵם֙ יִקְח֣וּ אֶת הַזָּהָ֔ב וְאֶת הַתְּכֵ֖לֶת וְאֶת הָֽאַרְגָּמָ֑ן וְאֶת תּוֹלַ֥עַת הַשָּׁנִ֖י וְאֶת הַשֵּֽׁשׁ

And they shall take the gold, the blue, the purple, the scarlet [material], and the fine linen.

Continuation (materials list)וְ
A five-fold list (each item marked by וְאֶת) of the raw materials — the same five threads used throughout the tabernacle textiles (cf. 25:4) — now dedicated specifically to the ephod.
Word-by-word analysis· 13 words
וְהֵם֙and theyconj וְ + independent pron 3mp · הֵם (H1992)Fronted subject (emphatic)הֵם (H1992) 3mp independent pronoun; fronted for emphasis, resuming 'the wise of heart' as subject of the material-gathering.
יִקְח֣וּthey shall takeQal impf 3mp · לָקַח (H3947)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptive instructionלָקַח (H3947) 'to take'; the craftsmen procure/select the materials to be worked.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853); marks הַזָּהָב as definite object.
הַזָּהָ֔בthe goldart + N m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Direct object (first material)זָהָב (H2091) 'gold'; the most precious of the five materials, used for the ephod's threads, settings, chains, and plate.
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + direct-object markerוְ joins the next object; אֵת marks הַתְּכֵלֶת.
הַתְּכֵ֖לֶתthe blue [material]art + N f sg abs · תְּכֵלֶת (H8504)Direct object (second material)תְּכֵלֶת (H8504) 'blue-violet (dyed wool)'; likely from a Mediterranean murex-derived dye; one of the three colored fibers of the tabernacle textiles.
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + direct-object markerMarks הָאַרְגָּמָן as object.
הָֽאַרְגָּמָ֑ןthe purple [material]art + N m sg abs · אַרְגָּמָן (H713)Direct object (third material)אַרְגָּמָן (H713) 'red-purple (dyed wool)', a loanword related to terms for murex-dyed textile; royal/priestly luxury color.
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + direct-object markerMarks תּוֹלַעת הַשָּנִי as object.
תּוֹלַ֥עַתworm ofN f sg constr · תּוֹלַעת (H8438)Construct head, direct objectתולַעת (H8438) 'worm, grub'; construct with שָׁנִי, referring to the crimson dye derived from the scale-insect (kermes).
הַשָּׁנִ֖יthe scarletart + N m sg abs · שָׁנִי (H8144)Genitive complement in construct chainשָׁנִי (H8144) 'scarlet, crimson'; with תולַעת, 'crimson [dyed from the] worm' — the fourth colored fiber.
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + direct-object markerMarks הַשֵּשׁ as the final object.
הַשֵּֽׁשׁthe fine linenart + N m sg abs · שֵׁשׁ (H8336)Direct object (fifth material)שֵׁשׁ (H8336) 'fine (Egyptian) linen'; an Egyptian loanword; the undyed base fabric into which the colored/gold threads are woven.
6

וְעָשׂ֖וּ אֶת הָאֵפֹ֑ד זָ֠הָב תְּכֵ֨לֶת וְאַרְגָּמָ֜ן תּוֹלַ֧עַת שָׁנִ֛י וְשֵׁ֥שׁ מָשְׁזָ֖ר מַעֲשֵׂ֥ה חֹשֵֽׁב

And they shall make the ephod of gold, blue, purple, scarlet [material], and finely twisted linen, the work of a skilled designer.

Continuation (begins ephod specification)וְ
Opens the ephod section proper (vv.6–14), specifying its five-fold material palette and the highest grade of craftsmanship (מַעֲשֵׂה חֹשֵׁב), reserved elsewhere only for the veil (26:31).
Word-by-word analysis· 12 words
וְעָשׂ֖וּand they shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 3cp (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); introduces the ephod's construction proper.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks הָאֵפֹד as object.
הָאֵפֹ֑דthe ephodart + N m sg abs · אֵפוֹד (H646)Direct objectאֵפוֹד (H646); the garment now named as definite, the first item detailed (vv.6–14).
זָ֠הָבgoldN m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Adverbial accusative (material of construction)זָהָב (H2091); gold thread beaten out and cut into strips for weaving (cf. 39:3).
תְּכֵ֨לֶתblueN f sg abs · תְּכֵלֶת (H8504)Adverbial accusative (material), coordinateתְּכֵלֶת (H8504); as v.5.
וְאַרְגָּמָ֜ןand purpleconj וְ + N m sg abs · אַרְגָּמָן (H713)Adverbial accusative (material), coordinateאַרְגָּמָן (H713); as v.5.
תּוֹלַ֧עַתworm ofN f sg constr · תולַעת (H8438)Construct head, adverbial accusativeתולַעת (H8438); construct with שָׁנִי as v.5.
שָׁנִ֛יscarletN m sg abs · שָׁנִי (H8144)Genitive complement in construct chainשָׁנִי (H8144); as v.5.
וְשֵׁ֥שׁand fine linen,conj וְ + N (adjectival use) f sg abs · שֵׁשׁ (H8336)Adverbial accusative (material), coordinateשֵׁשׁ (H8336); as v.5, here qualified by מָשְׁזָר.
מָשְׁזָ֖רtwistedHophal ptc pass m sg abs · שָׁזַר (H7806)Attributive participle modifying שֵׁשׁ→ Passive/stative: describes the finished, twined state of the threadשָׁזַר (H7806) Hophal ptc 'twisted, twined'; each linen thread is plied from several strands for strength and sheen (cf. 26:1).
מַעֲשֵׂ֥הwork ofN m sg constr · מַעֲשֶׂה (H4639)Construct head, apposition summarizing the craftsmanshipמַעֲשֶׂה (H4639) 'work, deed', from עשה; construct with חֹשֵׁב, a technical term for the finest tabernacle weaving (cf. curtains, 26:1).
חֹשֵֽׁבa skilled designer/weaverQal ptc m sg abs (substantival) · חָשַׁב (H2803)Genitive complement in construct chain (substantival participle)→ Substantival: nominalized agent-participle, functioning as a noun ("a designer") rather than predicating an actionחָשַׁב (H2803) 'to think, devise, plan'; participial noun 'deviser/designer' denotes the most skilled class of weaver, working multicolored patterns into the fabric (contrast the plainer רֹקֵם 'embroiderer', v.39).
7

שְׁתֵּ֧י כְתֵפֹ֣ת חֹֽבְרֹ֗ת יִֽהְיֶה לּ֛וֹ אֶל שְׁנֵ֥י קְצוֹתָ֖יו וְחֻבָּֽר

It shall have two shoulder-pieces joined at its two edges, so that it is joined together.

Specification (structural detail of the ephod)asyndeton
A tightly constructed verse framing the shoulder-piece description with the root חבר at both ends (חֹבְרֹת…וְחֻבָּר), an inclusio emphasizing the ephod's structural unity.
Word-by-word analysis· 9 words
שְׁתֵּ֧יtwonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeral, quantifying כְתֵפֹתשְׁתַּיִם (H8147) 'two'; construct form governing כְתֵפֹת.
כְתֵפֹ֣תshoulder-piecesN f pl abs · כָּתֵף (H3802)Subject (fronted, indefinite predicate complement)כָּתֵף (H3802) 'shoulder(-piece)'; the two straps joining front and back panels of the ephod over the shoulders, later bearing the onyx stones (v.12).
חֹֽבְרֹ֗תjoined/joiningQal ptc f pl abs · חָבַר (H2266)Attributive participle modifying כְתֵפֹת→ Stative/participial: describes ongoing attached stateחָבַר (H2266) 'to join, unite'; the shoulder-pieces are 'joiners,' connecting the ephod's front and back sections.
יִֽהְיֶהit shall be/haveQal impf 3ms · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveהָיָה (H1961) 'to be, become'; with לּוֹ, idiomatic 'it shall have.'
לּ֛וֹto itprep לְ + Sp3ms · לְAdverbial complement, possessive (dative of possession)לְ 3ms suffix; possessive construction, 'belonging to it [the ephod].'
אֶלatprep · אֶל (H413)Adverbial prepositional phrase (location)אֶל (H413) 'to, at'; here locational, marking where the shoulder-pieces attach.
שְׁנֵ֥יtwonumeral m dual constr · שְׁנַיִם (H8147)Construct numeral, quantifying קְצוֹתָיושְׁנַיִם (H8147) 'two'; masculine construct form (contrast fem שְׁתֵּי above), matching קָצֶה's gender.
קְצוֹתָ֖יוits endsN c pl constr + Sp3ms · קָצֶה (H7098)Genitive complement in construct chainקָצֶה (H7098) 'end, edge, extremity'; the ephod's two ends/edges where the shoulder straps attach.
וְחֻבָּֽרand it shall be joinedconj וְ + Pual perf 3ms (weqatal) · חָבַר (H2266)Predicate verb (weqatal, resultative)→ Weqatal (passive): resultative — the finished, joined stateחָבַר (H2266) Pual 'to be joined'; passive echo of חֹבְרֹת above, confirming the shoulder-pieces render the ephod a single joined garment.
8

וְחֵ֤שֶׁב אֲפֻדָּתוֹ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָלָ֔יו כְּמַעֲשֵׂ֖הוּ מִמֶּ֣נּוּ יִהְיֶ֑ה זָהָ֗ב תְּכֵ֧לֶת וְאַרְגָּמָ֛ן וְתוֹלַ֥עַת שָׁנִ֖י וְשֵׁ֥שׁ מָשְׁזָֽר

And the skillfully woven band on it, by which it is fastened, shall be of the same workmanship: gold, blue, purple, scarlet [material], and finely twisted linen.

Continuation (specification of the ephod's band)וְ
Closes the ephod-proper unit (vv.6–8) by specifying that its integral waistband shares the ephod's own five-material palette and grade of craftsmanship — the band is not an afterthought but woven of one piece with the whole.
Word-by-word analysis· 14 words
וְחֵ֤שֶׁבand the woven band ofconj וְ + N m sg constr · חֵשֶׁב (H2805)Subject (fronted), construct with אֲפֻדָּתוֹחֵשֶׁב (H2805) 'skillfully woven band/waistband', from חשב (cf. חֹשֵׁב v.6); the decorative belt woven as part of the ephod, cinching it at the waist.
אֲפֻדָּתוֹ֙its ephod-bandN f sg constr + Sp3ms · אֲפֻדָּה (H642)Genitive complement in construct chainאֲפֻדָּה (H642), a feminine form related to אֵפוֹד; here denoting the ephod's waistband/girding specifically.
אֲשֶׁ֣רwhichrelative particle · אֲשֶׁר (H834)Relative pronoun, introducing modifying clauseאֲשֶׁר (H834); introduces עָלָיו, locating the band.
עָלָ֔יוis on itprep עַל + Sp3ms · עַל (H5921)Predicate of relative clause (locative)עַל (H5921) 'on, upon'; the band rests upon/is attached to the ephod proper.
כְּמַעֲשֵׂ֖הוּlike its workmanshipprep כְּ + N m sg constr + Sp3ms · מַעֲשֶׂה (H4639)Predicate complement (comparative)מַעֲשֶׂה (H4639) 'work'; the band matches the ephod's own workmanship (מַעֲשֵׂה חֹשֵׁב, v.6) — same craftsmanship level.
מִמֶּ֣נּוּfrom it/of the sameprep מִן + Sp3ms (archaic form) · מִן (H4480)Adverbial prepositional phrase (source/material)מִן (H4480) 'from'; here 'of the same [piece/material]' — the band is woven integrally with, not separately from, the ephod. Though pointed with a 1cp-looking suffix, the form functions as 3ms 'from it,' a known Biblical Hebrew ambiguity.
יִהְיֶ֑הit shall beQal impf 3ms · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveהָיָה (H1961); main verb, 'shall be [made] of gold, blue…'
זָהָ֗בgoldN m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Adverbial accusative (material)זָהָב (H2091); as v.6.
תְּכֵ֧לֶתblueN f sg abs · תְּכֵלֶת (H8504)Adverbial accusative (material), coordinateAs v.6.
וְאַרְגָּמָ֛ןand purpleconj וְ + N m sg abs · אַרְגָּמָן (H713)Adverbial accusative (material), coordinateAs v.6.
וְתוֹלַ֥עַתand worm ofconj וְ + N f sg constr · תולַעת (H8438)Construct head, adverbial accusativeAs v.6.
שָׁנִ֖יscarletN m sg abs · שָׁנִי (H8144)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.6.
וְשֵׁ֥שׁand fine linen,conj וְ + N (adjectival) f sg abs · שֵׁשׁ (H8336)Adverbial accusative (material), coordinateAs v.6.
מָשְׁזָֽרtwistedHophal ptc pass m sg abs · שָׁזַר (H7806)Attributive participle modifying שֵׁשׁ→ Passive/stativeAs v.6.
9

וְלָ֣קַחְתָּ֔ אֶת שְׁתֵּ֖י אַבְנֵי שֹׁ֑הַם וּפִתַּחְתָּ֣ עֲלֵיהֶ֔ם שְׁמ֖וֹת בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל

And you shall take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel.

New section (introduces the shoulder-stones)וְ
Opens the memorial-stones unit (vv.9–12): Moses himself (2ms) takes and has engraved the two onyx stones that will rest on Aaron's shoulders, bearing all twelve tribal names.
Word-by-word analysis· 10 words
וְלָ֣קַחְתָּ֔and you shall takeconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · לָקַח (H3947)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instruction, addressed to Mosesלָקַח (H3947) 'to take'; shifts address back to Moses (2ms) after the craftsmen's 3rd-person instructions.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks שְׁתֵּי אַבְנֵי־שֹׁהַם as object.
שְׁתֵּ֖יtwonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeral, quantifying אַבְנֵישְׁתַּיִם (H8147); as v.7.
אַבְנֵיstones ofN f pl constr · אֶבֶן (H68)Construct head, direct objectאֶבֶן (H68) 'stone'; construct with שֹׁהַם, the first named gem of the chapter.
שֹׁ֑הַםonyxN m sg abs · שֹׁהַם (H7718)Genitive complement in construct chainשֹׁהַם (H7718) 'onyx' (identification debated — perhaps beryl or carnelian); a precious stone also named among Eden's treasures (Gen 2:12) and the breastpiece (v.20).
וּפִתַּחְתָּ֣and you shall engraveconj וְ + Piel perf 2ms (weqatal) · פָּתַח (H6605)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionפָּתַח (H6605) Piel 'to engrave, carve'; distinct from the more common Qal 'to open' — here of seal/gem engraving, cf. פִּתּוּחֵי חֹתָם (v.11).
עֲלֵיהֶ֔םon themprep עַל + Sp3mp · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative complement)עַל (H5921) 'on, upon'; the surface receiving the engraving.
שְׁמ֖וֹתthe names ofN m pl constr · שֵׁם (H8034)Direct object (construct chain)שֵׁם (H8034) 'name'; construct governing בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל — the tribal names as memorial inscription (cf. v.12).
בְּנֵ֥יsons ofN m pl constr · בֵן (H1121)Genitive complement, construct headבֵן (H1121); construct governing יִשְׂרָאֵל, 'sons of Israel' = the twelve tribes.
יִשְׂרָאֵֽלIsraelproper noun · יִשְׂרָאֵל (H3478)Genitive complement in construct chainיִשְׂרָאֵל (H3478); as v.1.
10

שִׁשָּׁה֙ מִשְּׁמֹתָ֔ם עַ֖ל הָאֶ֣בֶן הָאֶחָ֑ת וְאֶת שְׁמ֞וֹת הַשִּׁשָּׁ֧ה הַנּוֹתָרִ֛ים עַל הָאֶ֥בֶן הַשֵּׁנִ֖ית כְּתוֹלְדֹתָֽם

Six of their names on the one stone, and the names of the remaining six on the other stone, according to their birth order.

Specification (distribution of the twelve names)asyndeton
Details how the twelve tribal names of v.9 are apportioned six-and-six across the two onyx stones, ordered by birth (כְּתוֹלְדֹתָם), grounding the memorial in Israel's actual genealogical history rather than an abstract list.
Word-by-word analysis· 13 words
שִׁשָּׁה֙sixnumeral m sg abs · שִׁשָּׁה (H8337)Subject (of elided nominal clause)שִׁשָּׁה (H8337) 'six'; distributing the twelve names evenly, six per stone.
מִשְּׁמֹתָ֔םfrom their namesprep מִן + N m pl constr + Sp3mp · שֵׁם (H8034)Adverbial/partitive prepositional phraseשֵׁם (H8034); partitive מִן, 'from/of their [twelve] names' — six selected for each stone.
עַ֖לonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locational, the surface of engraving.
הָאֶ֣בֶןthe stoneart + N f sg abs · אֶבֶן (H68)Object of prepositionאֶבֶן (H68); as v.9.
הָאֶחָ֑תthe oneart + numeral f sg abs · אֶחָד (H259)Attributive adjective modifying הָאֶבֶןאֶחָד (H259) 'one'; here 'the first (one)' stone, paired with הַשֵּנִית 'the second' below.
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + direct-object markerMarks שְׁמוֹת הַשִּשָּׁה הַנּוֹתָרִים as object of an implied verb (continuing פִּתַּחְתָּ from v.9).
שְׁמ֞וֹתthe names ofN m pl constr · שֵׁם (H8034)Direct object (construct chain)שֵׁם (H8034); as above.
הַשִּׁשָּׁ֧הthe sixart + numeral m sg abs · שִׁשָּׁה (H8337)Genitive complement / substantive in construct chainשִׁשָּׁה (H8337); the complementary set of six names for the second stone.
הַנּוֹתָרִ֛יםthe remainingart + Niphal ptc m pl abs · יָתַר (H3498)Attributive participle modifying הַשִּשָּׁה→ Participial: ongoing state — those left overיָתַר (H3498) Niphal 'to remain, be left'; designates the second half of the twelve names not yet assigned.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); as above.
הָאֶ֥בֶןthe stoneart + N f sg abs · אֶבֶן (H68)Object of prepositionAs above.
הַשֵּׁנִ֖יתthe secondart + ordinal f sg abs · שֵׁנִי (H8145)Attributive adjective modifying הָאֶבֶןשֵׁנִי (H8145) 'second'; paired with הָאֶחָת above.
כְּתוֹלְדֹתָֽםaccording to their birth orderprep כְּ + N f pl constr + Sp3mp · תּוֹלְדוֹת (H8435)Adverbial prepositional phrase (manner/standard)תּוֹלְדָה (H8435) 'generations, genealogical order', from ילד 'to bear'; the names are arranged by birth order (as in Gen 29–30, 35), not alphabetically or by territory.
11

מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה חָרַשׁ֮ אֶבֶן֒ פִּתּוּחֵ֣י חֹתָ֗ם תְּפַתַּח֙ אֶת שְׁתֵּ֣י הָאֲבָנִ֔ים עַל שְׁמֹ֖ת בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל מֻסַבֹּ֛ת מִשְׁבְּצ֥וֹת זָהָ֖ב תַּעֲשֶׂ֥ה אֹתָֽם

As a gem-engraver cuts a seal, you shall engrave the two stones with the names of the sons of Israel; you shall make them, set in gold filigree settings.

Specification (technique + mounting)asyndeton
Specifies both the engraving technique (seal-cutting) and the mounting method (gold filigree settings), preparing for v.12's placement of the finished stones on the shoulder-pieces.
Word-by-word analysis· 18 words
מַעֲשֵׂ֣הwork ofN m sg constr · מַעֲשֶׂה (H4639)Adverbial accusative (manner), construct headמַעֲשֶׂה (H4639); construct with חָרָשׁ, 'the work of an engraver' describing the manner of engraving.
חָרַשׁ֮a craftsman ofN m sg constr · חָרָשׁ (H2796)Genitive complement, construct headחָרָשׁ (H2796) 'craftsman, engraver'; construct with אֶבֶן, 'a stone-engraver.'
אֶבֶן֒stoneN f sg abs (genitive use) · אֶבֶן (H68)Genitive complement in construct chainאֶבֶן (H68); specifies the craftsman's medium — a gem-engraver, a specialized lapidary skill.
פִּתּוּחֵ֣יengravings ofN m pl constr · פִּתּוּחַ (H6603)Adverbial accusative (manner), construct head, in apposition to מַעֲשֵׂה חָרַשׁ אֶבֶןפִּתּוּחַ (H6603) 'engraving, carving', from פתח (cf. v.9); construct with חֹתָם, 'seal-engravings' — the technique of cutting a signet.
חֹתָ֗םa sealN m sg abs · חֹתָם (H2368)Genitive complement in construct chainחֹתָם (H2368) 'seal, signet'; the names are cut into the stones with the same technique used for personal seals, ensuring permanence and legibility.
תְּפַתַּח֙you shall engravePiel impf 2ms · פָּתַח (H6605)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptive instruction to Mosesפָּתַח (H6605) Piel; as v.9, resumed as the main verb after the fronted manner-phrases.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks שְׁתֵּי הָאֲבָנִים as object.
שְׁתֵּ֣יtwonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeral, quantifying הָאֲבָנִיםAs v.7.
הָאֲבָנִ֔יםthe stonesart + N f pl abs · אֶבֶן (H68)Direct objectאֶבֶן (H68); now plural definite, the two onyx stones introduced in v.9.
עַלwith/concerningprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phraseעַל (H5921) here 'concerning, with' — introducing the content of the engraving.
שְׁמֹ֖תthe names ofN m pl constr · שֵׁם (H8034)Object of preposition (construct chain)שֵׁם (H8034); as above.
בְּנֵ֣יsons ofN m pl constr · בֵן (H1121)Genitive complement, construct headAs above.
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑לIsraelproper noun · יִשְׂרָאֵל (H3478)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.1.
מֻסַבֹּ֛תsurrounded/setHophal ptc pass f pl constr · סָבַב (H4142)Attributive participle, construct with מִשְׁבְּצוֹת→ Passive/stative: describes the finished encasementסָבַב (H4142) Hophal ptc 'surrounded, encircled'; the stones are encased/rimmed in gold settings — construct with מִשְׁבְּצוֹת זָהָב.
מִשְׁבְּצ֥וֹתfiligree settings ofN f pl constr · מִשְׁבְּצָה (H4865)Genitive complement in construct chainמִשְׁבְּצָה (H4865) 'setting, socket' (for a gem), from שבץ 'to weave/plait' (cf. תַשְׁבֵּץ v.4); the ornamental gold rim/basket holding each stone.
זָהָ֖בgoldN m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Genitive complement in construct chainזָהָב (H2091); as above, material of the settings.
תַּעֲשֶׂ֥הyou shall makeQal impf 2ms · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptive instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); second main verb, governing the setting/mounting of the stones.
אֹתָֽםthemobj marker + Sp3mp · אֵת (H853)Direct-object marker with pronominal suffixאֵת (H853) with 3mp suffix, resuming 'the two stones' as object of תַּעֲשֶׂה.
12

וְשַׂמְתָּ֞ אֶת שְׁתֵּ֣י הָאֲבָנִ֗ים עַ֚ל כִּתְפֹ֣ת הָֽאֵפֹ֔ד אַבְנֵ֥י זִכָּרֹ֖ן לִבְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל וְנָשָׂא֩ אַהֲרֹ֨ן אֶת שְׁמוֹתָ֜ם לִפְנֵ֧י יְהוָ֛ה עַל שְׁתֵּ֥י כְתֵפָ֖יו לְזִכָּרֹֽן

And you shall put the two stones on the shoulder-pieces of the ephod as stones of remembrance for the sons of Israel; and Aaron shall bear their names before YHWH on his two shoulders as a remembrance.

Climax (theological summary of the shoulder-stones unit)וְ
Concludes vv.9–12 by naming the theological point directly: the stones are זִכָּרוֹן (memorial), and Aaron 'bears' (נָשָׂא) Israel's names before YHWH — establishing the representative/mediatorial theology that runs through the whole chapter (cf. the same verb of the breastpiece, v.29, and of guilt-bearing, v.38).
Word-by-word analysis· 21 words
וְשַׂמְתָּ֞and you shall putconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · שָׂם (H7760)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionשׂוּם/שָׂם (H7760) 'to put, place'; the placement of the engraved stones onto the ephod.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks שְׁתֵּי הָאֲבָנִים.
שְׁתֵּ֣יtwonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeralAs above.
הָאֲבָנִ֗יםthe stonesart + N f pl abs · אֶבֶן (H68)Direct objectAs above.
עַ֚לonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
כִּתְפֹ֣תthe shoulder-pieces ofN f pl constr · כָּתֵף (H3802)Object of preposition (construct chain)כָּתֵף (H3802); as v.7, now the site of the memorial stones.
הָֽאֵפֹ֔דthe ephodart + N m sg abs · אֵפוֹד (H646)Genitive complement in construct chainאֵפוֹד (H646); as above.
אַבְנֵ֥יstones ofN f pl constr · אֶבֶן (H68)Apposition to הָאֲבָנִים, construct headאֶבֶן (H68); construct with זִכָּרוֹן, re-describing the stones by their function.
זִכָּרֹ֖ןremembranceN m sg abs · זִכָּרוֹן (H2146)Genitive complement in construct chainזִכָּרוֹן (H2146) 'memorial, remembrance', from זכר 'to remember'; the stones function as a perpetual reminder — of Israel before God, and of God's covenant faithfulness to Israel.
לִבְנֵ֣יfor the sons ofprep לְ + N m pl constr · בֵן (H1121)Adverbial prepositional phrase (reference/benefit)בֵן (H1121); dative of reference, 'on behalf of/concerning the sons of Israel.'
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑לIsraelproper noun · יִשְׂרָאֵל (H3478)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.1.
וְנָשָׂא֩and he shall bearconj וְ + Qal perf 3ms (weqatal) · נָשָׂא (H5375)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instruction, shift to 3ms (Aaron as subject)נָשָׂא (H5375) 'to lift, carry, bear'; the key theological verb of this unit — Aaron 'bears' Israel's names representatively before God (cf. also 'bear guilt,' v.38).
אַהֲרֹ֨ןAaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)SubjectAs v.1.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks שְׁמוֹתָם.
שְׁמוֹתָ֜םtheir namesN m pl constr + Sp3mp · שֵׁם (H8034)Direct objectשֵׁם (H8034); the twelve tribal names, now the direct object of 'bear' — Aaron carries Israel representatively into God's presence.
לִפְנֵ֧יbeforeprep לְ + N c pl constr · פָּנִים (H6440)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative, before God)פָּנִים (H6440) 'face'; idiomatic 'before, in the presence of' — locates Aaron's priestly bearing in the divine presence.
יְהוָ֛הYHWHproper noun · יְהוָה (H3068)Object of prepositionיְהוָה (H3068), the covenant name of God; the stones' memorial function is oriented specifically toward YHWH, not merely a human display.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); resuming from earlier in the verse.
שְׁתֵּ֥יtwonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeralAs above.
כְתֵפָ֖יוhis shouldersN f dual constr + Sp3ms · כָּתֵף (H3802)Object of prepositionכָּתֵף (H3802); Aaron's own shoulders, echoing כִּתְפֹת הָאֵפֹד — the ephod's shoulder-pieces sit where he physically bears the weight.
לְזִכָּרֹֽןas a remembranceprep לְ + N m sg abs · זִכָּרוֹן (H2146)Adverbial prepositional phrase (purpose/result)זִכָּרוֹן (H2146); closes the verse with the same term that opened the stones' description, forming an inclusio on memorial function.
13

וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ מִשְׁבְּצֹ֖ת זָהָֽב

And you shall make settings of gold.

New sub-unit (introduces gold settings/chains)וְ
A terse transitional verse opening the short unit on the gold chains (vv.13–14) that will eventually anchor the breastpiece to the ephod's shoulder-settings.
Word-by-word analysis· 3 words
וְעָשִׂ֥יתָand you shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); transitions to the chain assembly (vv.13–14) connecting the shoulder-stones to the breastpiece.
מִשְׁבְּצֹ֖תsettings ofN f pl constr · מִשְׁבְּצָה (H4865)Direct object (construct chain)מִשְׁבְּצָה (H4865); as v.11, here anticipating the settings that will hold the chain-ends (cf. v.25).
זָהָֽבgoldN m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Genitive complement in construct chainזָהָב (H2091); as above.
14

וּשְׁתֵּ֤י שַׁרְשְׁרֹת֙ זָהָ֣ב טָה֔וֹר מִגְבָּלֹ֛ת תַּעֲשֶׂ֥ה אֹתָ֖ם מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה עֲבֹ֑ת וְנָתַתָּ֛ה אֶת שַׁרְשְׁרֹ֥ת הָעֲבֹתֹ֖ת עַל הַֽמִּשְׁבְּצֹֽת

And you shall make two chains of pure gold, twisted like cords, and fasten the corded chains to the settings.

Continuation/closure (completes the ephod-and-stones unit)וְ
Closes the ephod section (vv.6–14) with braided gold chains that will (in vv.22–25) link the breastpiece's own settings to these shoulder-settings — a forward-pointing detail whose full function only becomes clear later in the chapter.
Word-by-word analysis· 15 words
וּשְׁתֵּ֤יand twoconj וְ + numeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeral, fronted for emphasisשְׁתַּיִם (H8147); as v.7.
שַׁרְשְׁרֹת֙chains ofN f pl constr · שַׁרְשְׁרָה (H8333)Direct object (fronted, construct chain)שַׁרְשְׁרָה (H8333) 'chain', from a reduplicated root suggesting a linked series; the decorative gold chains linking breastpiece to ephod.
זָהָ֣בof gold,N m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
טָה֔וֹרpureadj m sg abs · טָהוֹר (H2889)Attributive adjective modifying זָהָבטָהוֹר (H2889) 'pure, clean'; ritual/qualitative purity of the gold, the highest standard, used also of the lampstand and altar of incense (25:31,38; 30:3).
מִגְבָּלֹ֛תtwisted/cordedN f pl abs (adjectival) · מִגְבָּלָה (H4020)Attributive noun/adjective modifying שַׁרְשְׁרֹתמִגְבָּלָה (H4020), a rare term, 'twisted, plaited (as a cord)'; describes the chains' braided construction, echoed by מַעֲשֵׂה עֲבֹת below.
תַּעֲשֶׂ֥הyou shall makeQal impf 2ms · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveעָשָׂה (H6213); main verb, resumed after the fronted direct object.
אֹתָ֖םthemobj marker + Sp3mp · אֵת (H853)Direct-object marker (resumptive, referring to the chains)אֵת (H853) with 3mp suffix, resuming שַׁרְשְׁרֹת as object.
מַעֲשֵׂ֣הwork ofN m sg constr · מַעֲשֶׂה (H4639)Adverbial accusative (manner), construct headמַעֲשֶׂה (H4639); construct with עֲבֹת, describing the technique.
עֲבֹ֑תa cord/braidN c sg abs · עֲבֹת (H5688)Genitive complement in construct chainעֲבֹת (H5688) 'cord, rope, braid', from עבת 'to twist, interweave'; specifies rope-like braiding technique for the gold chains.
וְנָתַתָּ֛הand you shall put/fastenconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · נָתַן (H5414)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionנָתַן (H5414) 'to give, put, set'; here 'attach, fasten' the chains to the settings.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks שַׁרְשֹׁרֹת הָעֲבֹתֹת.
שַׁרְשְׁרֹ֥תchains ofN f pl abs (construct use) · שַׁרְשְׁרָה (H8333)Direct object (construct chain)As above.
הָעֲבֹתֹ֖תthe corded/braidedart + N c pl abs (attributive) · עֲבֹת (H5688)Genitive/attributive complement in construct chainעֲבֹת (H5688); as above, now definite, referring back to the just-made chains.
עַלon/toprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative, marking attachment point.
הַֽמִּשְׁבְּצֹֽתthe settingsart + N f pl abs · מִשְׁבְּצָה (H4865)Object of prepositionמִשְׁבְּצָה (H4865); as v.13, now definite — the gold settings just made.
15

וְעָשִׂ֜יתָ חֹ֤שֶׁן מִשְׁפָּט֙ מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה חֹשֵׁ֔ב כְּמַעֲשֵׂ֥ה אֵפֹ֖ד תַּעֲשֶׂ֑נּוּ זָ֠הָב תְּכֵ֨לֶת וְאַרְגָּמָ֜ן וְתוֹלַ֧עַת שָׁנִ֛י וְשֵׁ֥שׁ מָשְׁזָ֖ר תַּעֲשֶׂ֥ה אֹתֽוֹ

And you shall make a breastpiece of judgment, the work of a skilled designer; like the work of the ephod you shall make it — of gold, blue, purple, scarlet [material], and finely twisted linen you shall make it.

New major section (breastpiece introduced)וְ
Opens the chapter's central and longest unit (vv.15–30); the double frame תַּעֲשֶׂנּוּ…תַּעֲשֶׂה אֹתוֹ brackets the ephod-comparison and material list, underscoring that the breastpiece matches the ephod in material and craft even as it gains its own distinct name, 'breastpiece of judgment.'
Word-by-word analysis· 17 words
וְעָשִׂ֜יתָand you shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); opens the breastpiece section (vv.15–30), the chapter's longest and most detailed unit.
חֹ֤שֶׁןa breastpiece ofN m sg constr · חֹשֶׁן (H2833)Direct object (construct chain)חֹשֶׁן (H2833); as v.4, now specified as חֹשֶׁן מִשְׁפָּט 'breastpiece of judgment.'
מִשְׁפָּט֙judgmentN m sg abs (genitive use) · מִשְׁפָּט (H4941)Genitive complement in construct chainמִשְׁפָּט (H4941) 'judgment, justice, legal decision', from שפט 'to judge'; names the breastpiece's oracular function — it houses the Urim and Thummim by which divine decisions are sought (v.30).
מַעֲשֵׂ֣הwork ofN m sg constr · מַעֲשֶׂה (H4639)Adverbial accusative (manner), appositionמַעֲשֶׂה (H4639); as v.6, construct with חֹשֵׁב.
חֹשֵׁ֔בa skilled designerQal ptc m sg abs (substantival) · חָשַׁב (H2803)Genitive complement in construct chain→ Substantival: nominalized agent-participle, functioning as a noun ("a designer") rather than predicating an actionחָשַׁב (H2803); as v.6, the breastpiece shares the ephod's highest craftsmanship grade.
כְּמַעֲשֵׂ֥הlike the work ofprep כְּ + N m sg constr · מַעֲשֶׂה (H4639)Adverbial prepositional phrase (comparative)מַעֲשֶׂה (H4639); comparative, aligning breastpiece and ephod construction.
אֵפֹ֖דan ephodN m sg abs · אֵפוֹד (H646)Genitive complement in construct chainאֵפוֹד (H646); as above.
תַּעֲשֶׂ֑נּוּyou shall make itQal impf 2ms + Sp3ms · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveעָשָׂה (H6213); with 3ms suffix resuming חֹשֶׁן as object.
זָ֠הָבof gold,N m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Adverbial accusative (material)As v.6.
תְּכֵ֨לֶתblue,N f sg abs · תְּכֵלֶת (H8504)Adverbial accusative (material), coordinateAs v.6.
וְאַרְגָּמָ֜ןand purple,conj וְ + N m sg abs · אַרְגָּמָן (H713)Adverbial accusative (material), coordinateAs v.6.
וְתוֹלַ֧עַתand worm ofconj וְ + N f sg constr · תולַעת (H8438)Construct head, adverbial accusativeAs v.6.
שָׁנִ֛יscarlet,N m sg abs · שָׁנִי (H8144)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.6.
וְשֵׁ֥שׁand fine linenconj וְ + N (adjectival) f sg abs · שֵׁשׁ (H8336)Adverbial accusative (material), coordinateAs v.6.
מָשְׁזָ֖רtwisted,Hophal ptc pass m sg abs · שָׁזַר (H7806)Attributive participle modifying שֵׁשׁ→ Passive/stativeAs v.6.
תַּעֲשֶׂ֥הyou shall makeQal impf 2ms · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause, resumptive)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveעָשָׂה (H6213); resumptive repetition emphasizing the command, bracketing the material list.
אֹתֽוֹitobj marker + Sp3ms · אֵת (H853)Direct-object marker with pronominal suffixאֵת (H853) 3ms, resuming חֹשֶׁן as object, closing the verse's frame (תַּעֲשֶׂנּוּ…תַּעֲשֶׂה אֹתוֹ).
16

רָב֥וּעַ יִֽהְיֶ֖ה כָּפ֑וּל זֶ֥רֶת אָרְכּ֖וֹ וְזֶ֥רֶת רָחְבּֽוֹ

It shall be square, doubled over; a span its length and a span its width.

Specification (breastpiece's shape and size)asyndeton
A brief, precise architectural specification — square, doubled (folded to form a pocket), one span per side — grounding the ornate gemstone-list that follows in a concrete physical object.
Word-by-word analysis· 7 words
רָב֥וּעַsquareQal pass ptc m sg abs · רָבַע (H7251)Predicate adjective/participle (main clause)→ Stative/passive participle: describes fixed shapeרָבַע (H7251) 'to be square, four-sided'; the breastpiece is a compact square pouch, unlike the elongated ephod.
יִֽהְיֶ֖הit shall beQal impf 3ms · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (copula, main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveהָיָה (H1961); copular verb linking the breastpiece to its described shape.
כָּפ֑וּלdoubledQal pass ptc m sg abs · כָּפַל (H3717)Predicate adjective/participle, coordinate with רָבוּעַ→ Stative/passive participle: describes folded constructionכָּפַל (H3717) 'to fold, double'; the fabric is folded over, forming a pouch to hold the Urim and Thummim (v.30) — structural, not merely decorative.
זֶ֥רֶתa spanN f sg abs · זֶרֶת (H2239)Predicate nominative (measurement)זֶרֶת (H2239) 'span' (thumb-to-little-finger spread, ~22-23 cm); a small, compact size, about 9 inches square.
אָרְכּ֖וֹits lengthN m sg constr + Sp3ms · אֹרֶךְ (H753)Subject of measurement clauseאֹרֶךְ (H753) 'length'; with 3ms suffix, the breastpiece's own length dimension.
וְזֶ֥רֶתand a spanconj וְ + N f sg abs · זֶרֶת (H2239)Predicate nominative, coordinateזֶרֶת (H2239); repeated for the width dimension.
רָחְבּֽוֹits widthN m sg constr + Sp3ms · רֹחַב (H7341)Subject of measurement clauseרֹחַב (H7341) 'breadth, width'; confirms the square shape — length equals width, a span each.
17

וּמִלֵּאתָ֥ בוֹ֙ מִלֻּ֣אַת אֶ֔בֶן אַרְבָּעָ֖ה טוּרִ֣ים אָ֑בֶן ט֗וּר אֹ֤דֶם פִּטְדָה֙ וּבָרֶ֔קֶת הַטּ֖וּר הָאֶחָֽד

And you shall set in it a mounting of stones, four rows of stones: a row of carnelian, topaz, and emerald — the first row;

New sub-unit (opens the gemstone catalogue)וְ
Begins the twelve-stone catalogue (vv.17–20), organized as four rows of three; the cognate construction מִלֵּאתָ…מִלֻּאַת emphasizes the setting/mounting process before the stones are even named.
Word-by-word analysis· 13 words
וּמִלֵּאתָ֥and you shall setconj וְ + Piel perf 2ms (weqatal) · מָלֵא (H4390)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionמָלֵא (H4390) Piel 'to fill'; here idiomatic 'to set/mount' gems — literally 'fill it with a filling of stone,' i.e. mount stones in settings.
בוֹ֙in itprep בְּ + Sp3ms · בְּAdverbial prepositional phrase (locative)בְּ 'in'; 3ms suffix referring to the breastpiece, the site of the gem-setting.
מִלֻּ֣אַתa setting ofN f sg constr · מִלֻּאָה (H4396)Direct object (construct chain), cognate with מִלֵּאתָמִלֻּאָה (H4396) 'setting, filling' (for a gem), cognate accusative with מִלֵּאתָ — 'fill it with a filling of stone,' i.e. a gem-mounting.
אֶ֔בֶןstoneN f sg abs (genitive use) · אֶבֶן (H68)Genitive complement in construct chainאֶבֶן (H68); the general term for the twelve gems now to be enumerated.
אַרְבָּעָ֖הfournumeral m sg abs · אַרְבָּעָה (H702)Attributive numeral modifying טוּרִיםאַרְבָּעָה (H702) 'four'; the twelve stones are arranged in four rows of three, structurally echoing Israel's four-camp grouping (cf. Num 2).
טוּרִ֣יםrowsN m pl abs · טוּר (H2905)Subject/apposition (predicate nominative)טוּר (H2905), an Aramaic-influenced term, 'row, course' (of stones); used only in this chapter's gem-list and its parallel in 39:10–13.
אָ֑בֶןof stones:N f sg abs (collective/genitive) · אֶבֶן (H68)Genitive complement (collective) of טוּרִיםאֶבֶן (H68); collective singular, 'rows of stone(s).'
ט֗וּרa row of:N m sg constr · טוּר (H2905)Construct head, introducing the first row's gemsטוּר (H2905); construct introducing the first triad of gems by name.
אֹ֤דֶםcarnelian/rubyN m sg abs · אֹדֶם (H124)Genitive complement (first gem, apposition list)אֹדֶם (H124) 'carnelian' or 'ruby' (from אדם 'to be red'); a red gemstone, first stone of the first row, associated in later Jewish tradition with Reuben.
פִּטְדָה֙topaz/chrysoliteN f sg abs · פִּטְדָה (H6357)Genitive complement (second gem), coordinateפִּטְדָה (H6357) 'topaz' or 'chrysolite' (peridot), possibly a loanword tied to an ancient Red Sea source-island; a yellow-green gem, second stone of the first row.
וּבָרֶ֔קֶתand emerald/berylconj וְ + N f sg abs · בָּרֶקֶת (H1304)Genitive complement (third gem), coordinateבָּרֶקֶת (H1304) 'emerald' or a flashing green stone, from ברק 'to flash, glitter'; third stone of the first row.
הַטּ֖וּרthe rowart + N m sg abs · טוּר (H2905)Subject (resumptive apposition)טוּר (H2905); resumes 'the row' to identify its number.
הָאֶחָֽדthe firstart + numeral m sg abs · אֶחָד (H259)Attributive adjective modifying הַטּוּראֶחָד (H259) 'one'; here ordinal-like, 'the first row,' matching הָאֶחָת of v.10.
18

וְהַטּ֖וּר הַשֵּׁנִ֑י נֹ֥פֶךְ סַפִּ֖יר וְיָהֲלֹֽם

and the second row: turquoise, sapphire, and moonstone;

Continuation (row 2 of the gemstone list)וְ
Continues the catalogue with the second triad; several gem identifications here (נֹפֶךְ, יָהֲלֹם) remain uncertain, reflecting the difficulty of matching ancient Hebrew mineral terms to modern gemological categories.
Word-by-word analysis· 5 words
וְהַטּ֖וּרand the rowconj וְ + art + N m sg abs · טוּר (H2905)Subject (fronted apposition)טוּר (H2905); as v.17, introducing the second row.
הַשֵּׁנִ֑יthe secondart + ordinal m sg abs · שֵׁנִי (H8145)Attributive adjective modifying הַטּוּרשֵׁנִי (H8145) 'second'; as v.10.
נֹ֥פֶךְturquoise/malachiteN m sg abs · נֹפֶךְ (H5306)Genitive complement (first gem of row 2, apposition)נֹפֶךְ (H5306), identification uncertain — 'turquoise,' 'garnet,' or 'malachite' (LXX ἄνθραξ 'carbuncle'); first stone of the second row.
סַפִּ֖ירsapphire/lapis lazuliN m sg abs · סַפִּיר (H5601)Genitive complement (second gem), coordinateסַפִּיר (H5601) 'sapphire' — though likely denoting lapis lazuli, as true corundum sapphire was rarely worked in antiquity; a deep blue stone, also seen under God's feet in Exod 24:10.
וְיָהֲלֹֽםand moonstone/jasperconj וְ + N m sg abs · יָהֲלֹם (H3095)Genitive complement (third gem), coordinateיָהֲלֹם (H3095), identification uncertain — perhaps 'jasper,' 'onyx,' or 'moonstone'; third stone of the second row.
19

וְהַטּ֖וּר הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֑י לֶ֥שֶׁם שְׁב֖וֹ וְאַחְלָֽמָה

and the third row: jacinth, agate, and amethyst;

Continuation (row 3 of the gemstone list)וְ
Third triad of the catalogue; the terse list format (row-name + three gems, asyndetic within each triad) mirrors vv.17–18, building rhythmic repetition across the four verses.
Word-by-word analysis· 5 words
וְהַטּ֖וּרand the rowconj וְ + art + N m sg abs · טוּר (H2905)Subject (fronted apposition)As v.18, introducing the third row.
הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֑יthe thirdart + ordinal m sg abs · שְׁלִישִׁי (H7992)Attributive adjective modifying הַטּוּרשְׁלִישִׁי (H7992) 'third', from שָׁלֹשׁ 'three.'
לֶ֥שֶׁםjacinth/zirconN m sg abs · לֶשֶׁם (H3958)Genitive complement (first gem of row 3, apposition)לֶשֶׁם (H3958), identification uncertain — 'jacinth' (zircon) or 'amber'; first stone of the third row.
שְׁב֖וֹagateN m sg abs · שְׁבוֹ (H7618)Genitive complement (second gem), coordinateשְׁבוֹ (H7618) 'agate', possibly named for Sheba as a trade source; a banded chalcedony, second stone of the third row.
וְאַחְלָֽמָהand amethystconj וְ + N f sg abs · אַחְלָמָה (H306)Genitive complement (third gem), coordinateאַחְלָמָה (H306) 'amethyst', possibly related to חלם 'to dream' (credited in antiquity with inducing/preventing dreams); third stone of the third row.
20

וְהַטּוּר֙ הָרְבִיעִ֔י תַּרְשִׁ֥ישׁ וְשֹׁ֖הַם וְיָשְׁפֵ֑ה מְשֻׁבָּצִ֥ים זָהָ֛ב יִהְי֖וּ בְּמִלּוּאֹתָֽם

and the fourth row: beryl, onyx, and jasper; they shall be set in gold in their mountings.

Closure (row 4, and summary of the whole gem-catalogue)וְ
Completes the four rows of three (twelve stones total, matching the twelve tribes) and adds a summarizing clause (מְשֻׁבָּצִים זָהָב…) confirming gold-mounting for the entire set, closing the catalogue unit begun in v.17.
Word-by-word analysis· 9 words
וְהַטּוּר֙and the rowconj וְ + art + N m sg abs · טוּר (H2905)Subject (fronted apposition)As above, introducing the fourth and final row.
הָרְבִיעִ֔יthe fourthart + ordinal m sg abs · רְבִיעִי (H7243)Attributive adjective modifying הַטּוּררְבִיעִי (H7243) 'fourth', from אַרְבַּע 'four'; completes the four-row structure.
תַּרְשִׁ֥ישׁberyl/chrysoliteN m sg abs · תַּרְשִׁישׁ (H8658)Genitive complement (first gem of row 4, apposition)תַּרְשִׁישׁ (H8658) 'beryl' or 'chrysolite,' named for Tarshish, a distant trade port; a yellow-green gem, first of the fourth row.
וְשֹׁ֖הַםand onyxconj וְ + N m sg abs · שֹׁהַם (H7718)Genitive complement (second gem), coordinateשֹׁהַם (H7718); as v.9, the same gem used for the two shoulder-stones now reappears in the breastpiece's final row.
וְיָשְׁפֵ֑הand jasperconj וְ + N m sg abs · יָשְׁפֵה (H3471)Genitive complement (third gem), coordinateיָשְׁפֵה (H3471) 'jasper' (cognate with English 'jasper' via Greek/Semitic transmission); closes the twelve-stone list.
מְשֻׁבָּצִ֥יםset/mountedPual ptc m pl abs · שָׁבַץ (H7660)Predicate participle (main clause)→ Passive: describes the finished, mounted stateשָׁבַץ (H7660) Pual 'to be set, mounted' (cf. תַשְׁבֵּץ v.4, מִשְׁבְּצָה vv.11,13); summarizes that all twelve stones are gold-mounted.
זָהָ֛בin gold,N m sg abs (adverbial) · זָהָב (H2091)Adverbial accusative (material) of מְשֻׁבָּצִיםזָהָב (H2091); as above, the setting material.
יִהְי֖וּthey shall beQal impf 3mp · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (copula, main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveהָיָה (H1961); copular verb completing the summarizing clause for all twelve stones.
בְּמִלּוּאֹתָֽםin their settingsprep בְּ + N f pl constr + Sp3mp · מִלֻּאָה (H4396)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)מִלֻּאָה (H4396); as v.17, 'their settings/mountings' — plural, one per stone, twelve in all.
21

וְ֠הָאֲבָנִים תִּֽהְיֶ֜יןָ עַל שְׁמֹ֧ת בְּנֵֽי יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל שְׁתֵּ֥ים עֶשְׂרֵ֖ה עַל שְׁמֹתָ֑ם פִּתּוּחֵ֤י חוֹתָם֙ אִ֣ישׁ עַל שְׁמ֔וֹ תִּֽהְיֶ֕יןָ לִשְׁנֵ֥י עָשָׂ֖ר שָֽׁבֶט

And the stones shall correspond to the names of the sons of Israel, twelve, according to their names, like the engravings of a seal, each one according to its name; they shall be for the twelve tribes.

Interpretive summary (theological key to the gem-list)וְ
Provides the interpretive key to vv.17–20: the twelve stones are not merely decorative but each individually engraved with one tribal name, mirroring — in miniature, per-stone form — the collective memorial of the two shoulder-stones (vv.9–12); together the chapter doubles the representation of all Israel on Aaron's body.
Word-by-word analysis· 19 words
וְ֠הָאֲבָנִיםand the stonesconj וְ + art + N f pl abs · אֶבֶן (H68)Fronted subjectאֶבֶן (H68); the twelve gems just catalogued, now subject of the naming clause.
תִּֽהְיֶ֜יןָthey shall be/correspondQal impf 3fp · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveהָיָה (H1961), fem. plural form (agreeing with אֲבָנִים); 'shall be [in relation] to' — i.e. correspond to.
עַלaccording toprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (correspondence)עַל (H5921) here 'according to, corresponding to' — governs שְׁמֹת.
שְׁמֹ֧תthe names ofN m pl constr · שֵׁם (H8034)Object of preposition (construct chain)שֵׁם (H8034); as v.9.
בְּנֵֽיsons ofN m pl constr · בֵן (H1121)Genitive complement, construct headAs above.
יִשְׂרָאֵ֛לIsraelproper noun · יִשְׂרָאֵל (H3478)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.1.
שְׁתֵּ֥יםtwelvenumeral f (in compound) · שְׁתֵּים עֶשְׂרֵה (H8147)Numeral, apposition to הָאֲבָנִים/שְׁמֹתשְׁתֵּים עֶשְׂרֵה (H8147+H6240) 'twelve', lit. 'two-ten'; confirms the total count matches the twelve tribal names.
עֶשְׂרֵ֖ה-teennumeral f sg abs · עֶשְׂרֵה (H6240)Numeral, second element of 'twelve'עֶשְׂרֵה (H6240) 'ten' (fem. teens-form); combines with שְׁתֵּים for 'twelve.'
עַלaccording toprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (correspondence)עַל (H5921); resumed, governing שְׁמֹתָם.
שְׁמֹתָ֑םtheir names,N m pl constr + Sp3mp · שֵׁם (H8034)Object of prepositionשֵׁם (H8034); 'their names' referring back to the sons of Israel.
פִּתּוּחֵ֤יengravings ofN m pl constr · פִּתּוּחַ (H6603)Adverbial accusative (manner), construct headפִּתּוּחַ (H6603); as v.11, the seal-cutting technique applied to each stone.
חוֹתָם֙a seal,N m sg abs · חֹתָם (H2368)Genitive complement in construct chainחֹתָם (H2368); as v.11.
אִ֣ישׁeach oneN m sg abs (distributive) · אִישׁ (H376)Distributive apposition (subject of implied clause)אִישׁ (H376) 'man'; used distributively, 'each (stone/name)' — cf. the idiom 'each according to his name.'
עַלaccording toprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (correspondence)עַל (H5921); distributive correspondence.
שְׁמ֔וֹits/his nameN m sg constr + Sp3ms · שֵׁם (H8034)Object of prepositionשֵׁם (H8034); each stone bears its own single tribal name (contrast the shoulder-stones' six names each, vv.9-10).
תִּֽהְיֶ֕יןָthey shall beQal impf 3fp · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (main clause, resumptive)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveהָיָה (H1961); resumptive verb closing the sentence, echoing the opening תִּהְיֶיןָ.
לִשְׁנֵ֥יfor the twelveprep לְ + numeral m dual constr · שְׁנַיִם (H8147)Adverbial prepositional phrase (purpose/reference)שְׁנַיִם (H8147); construct form combining with עָשָׂר for 'twelve,' here 'for the twelve tribes.'
עָשָׂ֖ר-teennumeral m sg abs · עָשָׂר (H6240)Numeral, second element of 'twelve'עָשָׂר (H6240) 'ten' (masc. teens-form); with שְׁנֵי, 'twelve.'
שָֽׁבֶטtribe(s)N m sg abs (distributive) · שֵׁבֶט (H7626)Object of preposition, distributive singularשֵׁבֶט (H7626) 'tribe, rod, staff'; singular used distributively — 'the twelve tribe[s].' Names the referent of the twelve stones as Israel's tribal structure.
22

וְעָשִׂ֧יתָ עַל הַחֹ֛שֶׁן שַֽׁרְשֹׁ֥ת גַּבְלֻ֖ת מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה עֲבֹ֑ת זָהָ֖ב טָהֽוֹר

And you shall make on the breastpiece chains of twisted cordage, braided work, of pure gold.

New sub-unit (breastpiece's own attachment chains)וְ
Begins the attachment-hardware unit (vv.22–28) explaining how the breastpiece is fastened both to the shoulder-settings (via these braided chains, echoing vv.13–14) and to the ephod's band (vv.26–28).
Word-by-word analysis· 9 words
וְעָשִׂ֧יתָand you shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); turns to the breastpiece's attachment hardware (vv.22–28), mirroring the shoulder-stone chains of vv.13–14.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative, the site of attachment.
הַחֹ֛שֶׁןthe breastpieceart + N m sg abs · חֹשֶׁן (H2833)Object of prepositionחֹשֶׁן (H2833); as above, now definite.
שַֽׁרְשֹׁ֥תchains ofN f pl constr · שַׁרְשָׁה (H8331)Direct object (construct chain)שַׁרְשָׁה (H8331), a variant form of שַׁרְשְׁרָה (v.14) 'chain'; the breastpiece gets its own set of gold chains.
גַּבְלֻ֖תtwisted cordageN f sg abs (attributive) · גְּבָלוּת (H1383)Genitive/attributive complement in construct chainגְּבָלוּת (H1383), a rare term parallel to מִגְבָּלֹת (v.14), 'twisted/corded work'; describes the chain's braided form.
מַעֲשֵׂ֣הwork ofN m sg constr · מַעֲשֶׂה (H4639)Adverbial accusative (manner), construct headמַעֲשֶׂה (H4639); as v.14, construct with עֲבֹת.
עֲבֹ֑תa cord/braid,N c sg abs · עֲבֹת (H5688)Genitive complement in construct chainעֲבֹת (H5688); as v.14, the rope-like braiding technique.
זָהָ֖בof gold,N m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Genitive complement / apposition (material)זָהָב (H2091); as above.
טָהֽוֹרpureadj m sg abs · טָהוֹר (H2889)Attributive adjective modifying זָהָבטָהוֹר (H2889); as v.14, the highest-grade gold.
23

וְעָשִׂ֨יתָ֙ עַל הַחֹ֔שֶׁן שְׁתֵּ֖י טַבְּע֣וֹת זָהָ֑ב וְנָתַתָּ֗ אֶת שְׁתֵּי֙ הַטַּבָּע֔וֹת עַל שְׁנֵ֖י קְצ֥וֹת הַחֹֽשֶׁן

And you shall make on the breastpiece two rings of gold, and put the two rings on the two ends of the breastpiece.

Continuation (breastpiece's own rings)וְ
Specifies the two upper gold rings at the breastpiece's top corners, the anchor points for the gold chains of v.22 that will run up to the shoulder-settings (v.25).
Word-by-word analysis· 14 words
וְעָשִׂ֨יתָ֙and you shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); introduces the breastpiece's own gold rings, the upper attachment points.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
הַחֹ֔שֶׁןthe breastpieceart + N m sg abs · חֹשֶׁן (H2833)Object of prepositionחֹשֶׁן (H2833); as above.
שְׁתֵּ֖יtwonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeral, quantifying טַבְּעוֹתשְׁתַּיִם (H8147); as v.7.
טַבְּע֣וֹתrings ofN f pl constr · טַבַּעַת (H2885)Direct object (construct chain)טַבַּעַת (H2885) 'ring', from טבע 'to sink, impress'; same word used for the ark's carrying rings (25:12) — here small loops for chain/cord attachment.
זָהָ֑בof gold,N m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
וְנָתַתָּ֗and you shall putconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · נָתַן (H5414)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionנָתַן (H5414); as v.14, 'place/attach.'
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks שְׁתֵּי הַטַּבָּעוֹת.
שְׁתֵּי֙twonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeralAs above.
הַטַּבָּע֔וֹתthe ringsart + N f pl abs · טַבַּעַת (H2885)Direct objectטַבַּעַת (H2885); now definite, the rings just made.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
שְׁנֵ֖יtwonumeral m dual constr · שְׁנַיִם (H8147)Construct numeral, quantifying קְצוֹתשְׁנַיִם (H8147); masculine form, as v.7.
קְצ֥וֹתthe ends ofN c pl constr · קָצֶה (H7098)Object of preposition (construct chain)קָצֶה (H7098); as v.7, the breastpiece's own two upper corners/edges.
הַחֹֽשֶׁןthe breastpieceart + N m sg abs · חֹשֶׁן (H2833)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
24

וְנָתַתָּ֗ה אֶת שְׁתֵּי֙ עֲבֹתֹ֣ת הַזָּהָ֔ב עַל שְׁתֵּ֖י הַטַּבָּעֹ֑ת אֶל קְצ֖וֹת הַחֹֽשֶׁן

And you shall put the two gold cords on the two rings at the ends of the breastpiece.

Continuation (fastening the chains to the rings)וְ
Attaches the braided gold chains (v.22) to the breastpiece's own rings (v.23), the first step in the two-point suspension system completed in v.25.
Word-by-word analysis· 11 words
וְנָתַתָּ֗הand you shall putconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · נָתַן (H5414)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionנָתַן (H5414); as above.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks שְׁתֵּי עֲבֹתֹת הַזָּהָב.
שְׁתֵּי֙twonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeralAs above.
עֲבֹתֹ֣תcords ofN c pl constr · עֲבֹת (H5688)Direct object (construct chain)עֲבֹת (H5688); as v.14, here referring to the braided gold chains of v.22 by their material technique.
הַזָּהָ֔בthe goldart + N m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
שְׁתֵּ֖יtwonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeralAs above.
הַטַּבָּעֹ֑תthe ringsart + N f pl abs · טַבַּעַת (H2885)Object of prepositionAs v.23.
אֶלatprep · אֶל (H413)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)אֶל (H413) 'to, at'; marking location more precisely.
קְצ֖וֹתthe ends ofN c pl constr · קָצֶה (H7098)Object of preposition (construct chain)As v.23.
הַחֹֽשֶׁןthe breastpieceart + N m sg abs · חֹשֶׁן (H2833)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
25

וְאֵ֨ת שְׁתֵּ֤י קְצוֹת֙ שְׁתֵּ֣י הָעֲבֹתֹ֔ת תִּתֵּ֖ן עַל שְׁתֵּ֣י הַֽמִּשְׁבְּצ֑וֹת וְנָתַתָּ֛ה עַל כִּתְפ֥וֹת הָאֵפֹ֖ד אֶל מ֥וּל פָּנָֽיו

And the two ends of the two cords you shall attach to the two settings, and put them on the shoulder-pieces of the ephod, at its front.

Continuation (completes the upper suspension)וְ
Completes the upper chain-suspension system begun in vv.22–24: the breastpiece hangs from the shoulder-settings by the gold chains, positioned at the ephod's front where it is visible — the counterpart lower fastening (rings + blue cord) follows in vv.26–28.
Word-by-word analysis· 16 words
וְאֵ֨תand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + direct-object marker (fronted object)אֵת (H853); marks the fronted direct object שְׁתֵּי קְצוֹת שְׁתֵּי הָעֲבֹתֹת.
שְׁתֵּ֤יtwonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeral, quantifying קְצוֹתAs above.
קְצוֹת֙the ends ofN c pl constr · קָצֶה (H7098)Direct object (construct chain, fronted)As v.23.
שְׁתֵּ֣יtwonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeral, quantifying עֲבֹתֹתAs above.
הָעֲבֹתֹ֔תthe cordsart + N c pl abs · עֲבֹת (H5688)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.24, now definite.
תִּתֵּ֖ןyou shall attachQal impf 2ms · נָתַן (H5414)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveנָתַן (H5414); the loose (upper) ends of the chains attach to the shoulder-settings.
עַלtoprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
שְׁתֵּ֣יtwonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeralAs above.
הַֽמִּשְׁבְּצ֑וֹתthe settingsart + N f pl abs · מִשְׁבְּצָה (H4865)Object of prepositionמִשְׁבְּצָה (H4865); the gold settings made for the shoulder-stones (vv.11,13), now the upper anchor point for the breastpiece's chains.
וְנָתַתָּ֛הand you shall putconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · נָתַן (H5414)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionנָתַן (H5414); the settings themselves (with the chains attached) are placed on the shoulder-pieces.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
כִּתְפ֥וֹתthe shoulder-pieces ofN f pl constr · כָּתֵף (H3802)Object of preposition (construct chain)כָּתֵף (H3802); as v.7,12.
הָאֵפֹ֖דthe ephodart + N m sg abs · אֵפוֹד (H646)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
אֶלatprep · אֶל (H413)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)אֶל (H413); marking precise placement.
מ֥וּלthe front ofprep (as noun) · מוּל (H4136)Object of preposition (construct-like)מוּל (H4136) 'front, opposite'; here 'in front of,' governing פָּנָיו.
פָּנָֽיוits face/frontN c pl constr + Sp3ms · פָּנִים (H6440)Genitive complement in construct chainפָּנִים (H6440); the ephod's front side, where the settings/stones face outward, visible.
26

וְעָשִׂ֗יתָ שְׁתֵּי֙ טַבְּע֣וֹת זָהָ֔ב וְשַׂמְתָּ֣ אֹתָ֔ם עַל שְׁנֵ֖י קְצ֣וֹת הַחֹ֑שֶׁן עַל שְׂפָת֕וֹ אֲשֶׁ֛ר אֶל עֵ֥בֶר הָאֵפֹ֖ד בָּֽיְתָה

And you shall make two rings of gold and put them on the two ends of the breastpiece, on its edge that faces the ephod, on the inward side.

New sub-unit (lower rings, second attachment system)וְ
Opens the lower-fastening unit (vv.26–28), a second and independent system (distinct from the shoulder-chains) that pins the breastpiece's bottom against the ephod's woven band so it will not swing loose.
Word-by-word analysis· 17 words
וְעָשִׂ֗יתָand you shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); introduces a second pair of rings — the lower fastening point.
שְׁתֵּי֙twonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeral, quantifying טַבְּעוֹתAs above.
טַבְּע֣וֹתrings ofN f pl constr · טַבַּעַת (H2885)Direct object (construct chain)טַבַּעַת (H2885); as v.23, a second set for the lower anchoring.
זָהָ֔בgoldN m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
וְשַׂמְתָּ֣and you shall putconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · שָׂם (H7760)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionשׂוּם/שָׂם (H7760); as v.12.
אֹתָ֔םthemobj marker + Sp3mp · אֵת (H853)Direct-object marker with pronominal suffixאֵת (H853), resuming the two new rings.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
שְׁנֵ֖יtwonumeral m dual constr · שְׁנַיִם (H8147)Construct numeral, quantifying קְצוֹתAs v.7.
קְצ֣וֹתthe ends ofN c pl constr · קָצֶה (H7098)Object of preposition (construct chain)As v.23; here the lower ends, distinct from the upper ends of v.23.
הַחֹ֑שֶׁןthe breastpieceart + N m sg abs · חֹשֶׁן (H2833)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative, further specifying.
שְׂפָת֕וֹits edge/borderN f sg constr + Sp3ms · שָׂפָה (H8193)Object of prepositionשָׂפָה (H8193) 'lip, edge, border'; the breastpiece's inner border/hem, facing the ephod.
אֲשֶׁ֛רthatrelative particle · אֲשֶׁר (H834)Relative pronoun, introducing modifying clauseאֲשֶׁר (H834); introduces the location clause.
אֶלfaces/is towardprep · אֶל (H413)Predicate of relative clause (locative)אֶל (H413); 'toward,' locating the border relative to the ephod.
עֵ֥בֶרthe side ofN m sg constr · עֵבֶר (H5676)Object of preposition (construct chain)עֵבֶר (H5676) 'side, region, across'; construct with הָאֵפֹד, 'the side of the ephod' — the inner side facing it.
הָאֵפֹ֖דthe ephod,art + N m sg abs · אֵפוֹד (H646)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
בָּֽיְתָהinward/on the insideN m sg abs + directional הֵ (Sd) · בַּיִת (H1004)Adverbial accusative of directionבַּיִת (H1004) 'house, interior'; with directional ־ָה, 'toward the inside' — the rings sit on the inner face of the breastpiece, next to the wearer's body/the ephod.
27

וְעָשִׂיתָ֮ שְׁתֵּ֣י טַבְּע֣וֹת זָהָב֒ וְנָתַתָּ֣ה אֹתָ֡ם עַל שְׁתֵּי֩ כִתְפ֨וֹת הָאֵפ֤וֹד מִלְּמַ֨טָּה֙ מִמּ֣וּל פָּנָ֔יו לְעֻמַּ֖ת מֶחְבַּרְתּ֑וֹ מִמַּ֕עַל לְחֵ֖שֶׁב הָאֵפֽוֹד

And you shall make two rings of gold and attach them to the two shoulder-pieces of the ephod below, in front, close by its seam, above the woven band of the ephod.

Continuation (rings on the ephod itself)וְ
Pinpoints, with an unusually dense stack of locative prepositions (מִלְּמַטָּה…מִמּוּל…לְעֻמַּת…מִמַּעַל), the exact spot on the ephod's shoulder-piece where the corresponding rings must sit — precision reflecting the concern that the breastpiece stay firmly fixed (cf. v.28's concluding rationale).
Word-by-word analysis· 18 words
וְעָשִׂיתָ֮and you shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); a third pair of rings, this time on the ephod itself, to receive the blue cord of v.28.
שְׁתֵּ֣יtwonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeral, quantifying טַבְּעוֹתAs above.
טַבְּע֣וֹתrings ofN f pl constr · טַבַּעַת (H2885)Direct object (construct chain)טַבַּעַת (H2885); the third pair — placed on the ephod, not the breastpiece.
זָהָב֒goldN m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
וְנָתַתָּ֣הand you shall attachconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · נָתַן (H5414)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionנָתַן (H5414); as above.
אֹתָ֡םthemobj marker + Sp3mp · אֵת (H853)Direct-object marker with pronominal suffixאֵת (H853), resuming the new rings.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
שְׁתֵּי֩twonumeral f dual constr · שְׁתַּיִם (H8147)Construct numeralAs above.
כִתְפ֨וֹתthe shoulder-pieces ofN f pl constr · כָּתֵף (H3802)Object of preposition (construct chain)As v.7,12.
הָאֵפ֤וֹדthe ephodart + N m sg abs · אֵפוֹד (H646)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
מִלְּמַ֨טָּה֙from below/low downprep מִן + prep לְ + adverb · מַטָּה (H4295)Adverbial phrase (location, low position)מַטָּה (H4295) 'below, downward'; compound preposition specifying the rings sit low on the shoulder-pieces, near the ephod's waistband.
מִמּ֣וּלin front ofprep מִן + prep · מוּל (H4136)Adverbial phrase (location, frontal)מוּל (H4136); as v.25, 'opposite, in front of' — the rings face outward/frontward.
פָּנָ֔יוits front,N c pl constr + Sp3ms · פָּנִים (H6440)Object of preposition (construct chain)As v.25.
לְעֻמַּ֖תclose by/alongsideprep לְ + N f sg constr · עֻמָּה (H5980)Adverbial prepositional phrase (proximity)עֻמָּה (H5980) 'proximity, alongside', from עמם; idiomatic 'corresponding to, right at' the seam.
מֶחְבַּרְתּ֑וֹits seam/joiningN f sg constr + Sp3ms · מַחְבֶּרֶת (H4225)Object of prepositionמַחְבֶּרֶת (H4225) 'joint, coupling', from חבר 'to join' (cf. v.7); the seam where the ephod's shoulder-piece joins the body of the garment.
מִמַּ֕עַלaboveprep מִן + adverb · מַעַל (H4605)Adverbial phrase (location, above)מַעַל (H4605) 'above, upward'; locates the rings above the waistband, just below the shoulder joint.
לְחֵ֖שֶׁבthe woven band ofprep לְ + N m sg constr · חֵשֶׁב (H2805)Object of preposition (construct chain)חֵשֶׁב (H2805); as v.8, the ephod's integral waistband.
הָאֵפֽוֹדthe ephodart + N m sg abs · אֵפוֹד (H646)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
28

וְיִרְכְּס֣וּ אֶת הַ֠חֹשֶׁן מטבעתו מִֽטַּבְּעֹתָ֞יו אֶל טַבְּעֹ֤ת הָאֵפֹד֙ בִּפְתִ֣יל תְּכֵ֔לֶת לִֽהְי֖וֹת עַל חֵ֣שֶׁב הָאֵפ֑וֹד וְלֹֽא יִזַּ֣ח הַחֹ֔שֶׁן מֵעַ֖ל הָאֵפֽוֹד

And they shall bind the breastpiece by its rings to the rings of the ephod with a blue cord, so that it may be on the woven band of the ephod, and the breastpiece shall not come loose from the ephod.

Closure (rationale for the whole attachment system)וְ
Closes the elaborate four-point suspension system (vv.22–28) with an explicit purpose/result clause (וְלֹא־יִזַּח) stating why: the breastpiece bearing Israel's names must never come loose from its place before God — practical engineering in service of theological symbolism. The ketiv-qere at מטבעתו/מִטַּבְּעֹתָיו is a minor scribal variant not affecting sense.
Word-by-word analysis· 19 words
וְיִרְכְּס֣וּand they shall bindconj וְ + Qal impf 3mp · רָכַס (H7405)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveרָכַס (H7405) 'to bind, tie'; a rare verb naming the final securing action linking breastpiece and ephod via cord.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks הַחֹשֶׁן as object.
הַ֠חֹשֶׁןthe breastpieceart + N m sg abs · חֹשֶׁן (H2833)Direct objectAs above.
מטבעתו(ketiv) its ringsketiv (unpointed) · prep מִן + N f pl constr + Sp3ms · טַבַּעַת (H2885)Adverbial prepositional phrase (instrument/source) — ketiv formKetiv מטבעתו, read per the qere מִטַּבְּעֹתָיו (next word); the Masoretic apparatus preserves both the unpointed consonantal text and its corrected reading — the underlying word is טַבַּעַת (H2885) 'ring,' as elsewhere in this chapter.
מִֽטַּבְּעֹתָ֞יוby its ringsqere (pointed) · prep מִן + N f pl constr + Sp3ms · טַבַּעַת (H2885)Adverbial prepositional phrase (instrument/source) — qere form, the form actually read aloudטַבַּעַת (H2885); the qere supplies plural pointing 'from/by its rings,' matching the surrounding plural syntax (contrast the ketiv's singular consonantal spelling).
אֶלtoprep · אֶל (H413)Adverbial prepositional phrase (goal)אֶל (H413); marking the destination of the binding.
טַבְּעֹ֤תthe rings ofN f pl constr · טַבַּעַת (H2885)Object of preposition (construct chain)טַבַּעַת (H2885); the rings just placed on the ephod's shoulder-pieces (v.27).
הָאֵפֹד֙the ephodart + N m sg abs · אֵפוֹד (H646)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
בִּפְתִ֣ילwith a cord ofprep בְּ + N m sg constr · פָּתִיל (H6616)Adverbial prepositional phrase (instrument), construct headפָּתִיל (H6616) 'cord, thread, lace', from פתל 'to twist'; the connecting material for this lower binding, distinct from the gold chains above.
תְּכֵ֔לֶתblueN f sg abs · תְּכֵלֶת (H8504)Genitive complement in construct chainתְּכֵלֶת (H8504); as v.5, matching the ephod/robe's blue thread.
לִֽהְי֖וֹתso that it may beprep לְ + Qal inf constr · הָיָה (H1961)Purpose infinitive clause→ Infinitival: purpose — the goal of the bindingהָיָה (H1961); purpose clause, 'in order to be [fixed] upon the band.'
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
חֵ֣שֶׁבthe woven band ofN m sg constr · חֵשֶׁב (H2805)Object of preposition (construct chain)חֵשֶׁב (H2805); as v.8,27.
הָאֵפ֑וֹדthe ephod,art + N m sg abs · אֵפוֹד (H646)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
וְלֹֽאand notconj וְ + negative particle · לֹא (H3808)Negative particle, negating the following verbלֹא (H3808), standard negator; introduces the concluding negative-purpose clause.
יִזַּ֣חit shall come looseNiphal impf 3ms · זָחַח (H2118)Predicate verb (negative purpose/result clause)→ Yiqtol (negated): modal — a prohibited/prevented resultזָחַח (H2118) Niphal 'to be displaced, slip loose' (rare form); names the very failure-mode all this hardware is designed to prevent.
הַחֹ֔שֶׁןthe breastpieceart + N m sg abs · חֹשֶׁן (H2833)SubjectAs above.
מֵעַ֖לfrom upon/fromprep מִן + prep עַל · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (separation)עַל (H5921) with מִן, 'away from'; the breastpiece must stay fixed to, not separated from, the ephod.
הָאֵפֽוֹדthe ephodart + N m sg abs · אֵפוֹד (H646)Object of prepositionAs above.
29

וְנָשָׂ֣א אַ֠הֲרֹן אֶת שְׁמ֨וֹת בְּנֵֽי יִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל בְּחֹ֧שֶׁן הַמִּשְׁפָּ֛ט עַל לִבּ֖וֹ בְּבֹא֣וֹ אֶל הַקֹּ֑דֶשׁ לְזִכָּרֹ֥ן לִפְנֵֽי יְהוָ֖ה תָּמִֽיד

And Aaron shall bear the names of the sons of Israel in the breastpiece of judgment on his heart, when he goes into the holy place, as a continual remembrance before YHWH.

Climax (theological summary, breastpiece unit)וְ
Parallels v.12's summary of the shoulder-stones, but intensifies it: now the twelve names rest 'on his heart' (not merely his shoulders) and the remembrance is explicitly 'continual' (תָּמִיד) — the breastpiece's function is theological, keeping Israel perpetually named before YHWH through her priest.
Word-by-word analysis· 17 words
וְנָשָׂ֣אand he shall bearconj וְ + Qal perf 3ms (weqatal) · נָשָׂא (H5375)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionנָשָׂא (H5375); as v.12, the memorial-bearing verb, now applied to the breastpiece's twelve individually named stones.
אַ֠הֲרֹןAaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)SubjectAs v.1.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks שְׁמוֹת בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל.
שְׁמ֨וֹתthe names ofN m pl constr · שֵׁם (H8034)Direct object (construct chain)שֵׁם (H8034); as above.
בְּנֵֽיsons ofN m pl constr · בֵן (H1121)Genitive complement, construct headAs above.
יִשְׂרָאֵ֜לIsraelproper noun · יִשְׂרָאֵל (H3478)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.1.
בְּחֹ֧שֶׁןin the breastpiece ofprep בְּ + N m sg constr · חֹשֶׁן (H2833)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative), construct headחֹשֶׁן (H2833); as above, construct with מִשְׁפָּט.
הַמִּשְׁפָּ֛טjudgmentart + N m sg abs · מִשְׁפָּט (H4941)Genitive complement in construct chainמִשְׁפָּט (H4941); as v.15, now with the article as a fixed title, 'the breastpiece of judgment.'
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
לִבּ֖וֹhis heartN m sg constr + Sp3ms · לֵב (H3820)Object of prepositionלֵב (H3820); as v.3, here the physical location — over Aaron's chest — carrying deep symbolic weight: Israel is held close to the heart of her mediating priest.
בְּבֹא֣וֹwhen he goes/entersprep בְּ + Qal inf constr + Sp3ms · בּוֹא (H935)Temporal infinitive clause→ Infinitival: temporal — the occasion of the priestly actionבּוֹא (H935) 'to come, enter'; temporal infinitive, 'in his entering' — specifies the occasion (entry into the sanctuary) when the breastpiece functions.
אֶלintoprep · אֶל (H413)Adverbial prepositional phrase (goal)אֶל (H413) 'to, into.'
הַקֹּ֑דֶשׁthe holy placeart + N m sg abs · קֹדֶשׁ (H6944)Object of prepositionקֹדֶשׁ (H6944); here substantival, 'the sanctuary/holy place' — the outer sanctum where Aaron ministers regularly (contrast the inner Most Holy Place, entered only on Yom Kippur).
לְזִכָּרֹ֥ןas a remembranceprep לְ + N m sg abs · זִכָּרוֹן (H2146)Adverbial prepositional phrase (purpose/result)זִכָּרוֹן (H2146); as v.12, echoing the shoulder-stones' function, now for the breastpiece.
לִפְנֵֽיbeforeprep לְ + N c pl constr · פָּנִים (H6440)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative, before God)פָּנִים (H6440); as v.12.
יְהוָ֖הYHWHproper noun · יְהוָה (H3068)Object of prepositionAs v.12.
תָּמִֽידcontinuallyN m sg abs (adverbial) · תָּמִיד (H8548)Adverbial accusative (manner/duration)תָּמִיד (H8548) 'continually, regularly'; the memorial function is not a one-time act but a standing, ongoing office.
30

וְנָתַתָּ֞ אֶל חֹ֣שֶׁן הַמִּשְׁפָּ֗ט אֶת הָאוּרִים֙ וְאֶת הַתֻּמִּ֔ים וְהָיוּ֙ עַל לֵ֣ב אַהֲרֹ֔ן בְּבֹא֖וֹ לִפְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה וְנָשָׂ֣א אַ֠הֲרֹן אֶת מִשְׁפַּ֨ט בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵ֧ל עַל לִבּ֛וֹ לִפְנֵ֥י יְהוָ֖ה תָּמִֽיד

And you shall put in the breastpiece of judgment the Urim and the Thummim, and they shall be on Aaron's heart when he goes in before YHWH; and Aaron shall continually bear the judgment of the sons of Israel on his heart before YHWH.

Closure (introduces the Urim/Thummim, closes the whole breastpiece unit)וְ
Concludes the breastpiece section (vv.15–30) by naming its oracular instruments — the otherwise undescribed Urim and Thummim — and restates the chapter's memorial theology one last time (וְנָשָׂא…לִבּוֹ…תָּמִיד), now expanding 'names' (v.29) to 'judgment,' i.e. the breastpiece mediates not just Israel's identity but her legal/covenantal standing before God.
Word-by-word analysis· 26 words
וְנָתַתָּ֞and you shall putconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · נָתַן (H5414)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionנָתַן (H5414); introduces the Urim and Thummim, the breastpiece's oracular contents, closing the unit.
אֶלin/intoprep · אֶל (H413)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)אֶל (H413) 'to, into.'
חֹ֣שֶׁןthe breastpiece ofN m sg constr · חֹשֶׁן (H2833)Object of preposition (construct chain)As above.
הַמִּשְׁפָּ֗טjudgment,art + N m sg abs · מִשְׁפָּט (H4941)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.29.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks הָאוּרִים as object.
הָאוּרִים֙the Urimart + N m pl abs · אוּרִים (H224)Direct object (first item)אוּרִים (H224), plural of אוּר 'light, flame' (or an unrelated loan term); sacred lots or objects used for divine oracles/decision-making — their exact nature is never described, only their function (cf. Num 27:21; 1 Sam 28:6).
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + direct-object markerMarks הַתֻּמִּים as object.
הַתֻּמִּ֔יםthe Thummimart + N m pl abs · תֻּמִּים (H8550)Direct object (second item)תֻּמִּים (H8550), plural related to תֹּם 'completeness, integrity'; paired with the Urim as the instrument of the high priest's judicial/oracular inquiry — together perhaps 'lights and perfections,' full and true revelation.
וְהָיוּ֙and they shall beconj וְ + Qal perf 3cp (weqatal) · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionהָיָה (H1961); places the Urim and Thummim in position, resulting state.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
לֵ֣בthe heart ofN m sg constr · לֵב (H3820)Object of preposition (construct chain)לֵב (H3820); as v.29, physically over Aaron's heart, alongside the gemstones.
אַהֲרֹ֔ןAaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.1.
בְּבֹא֖וֹwhen he goes inprep בְּ + Qal inf constr + Sp3ms · בּוֹא (H935)Temporal infinitive clause→ Infinitival: temporalבּוֹא (H935); as v.29.
לִפְנֵ֣יbeforeprep לְ + N c pl constr · פָּנִים (H6440)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)פָּנִים (H6440); as above.
יְהוָ֑הYHWHproper noun · יְהוָה (H3068)Object of prepositionAs above.
וְנָשָׂ֣אand he shall bearconj וְ + Qal perf 3ms (weqatal) · נָשָׂא (H5375)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionנָשָׂא (H5375); as vv.12,29, the closing occurrence of the chapter's memorial/bearing motif.
אַ֠הֲרֹןAaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)SubjectAs v.1.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks מִשְׁפַּט בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל.
מִשְׁפַּ֨טthe judgment ofN m sg constr · מִשְׁפָּט (H4941)Direct object (construct chain)מִשְׁפָּט (H4941); now 'the judgment/legal cause of the sons of Israel' — Aaron bears not just their names/identity but their cases/decisions before God.
בְּנֵיsons ofN m pl constr · בֵן (H1121)Genitive complement, construct headAs above.
יִשְׂרָאֵ֧לIsraelproper noun · יִשְׂרָאֵל (H3478)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.1.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
לִבּ֛וֹhis heartN m sg constr + Sp3ms · לֵב (H3820)Object of prepositionAs above.
לִפְנֵ֥יbeforeprep לְ + N c pl constr · פָּנִים (H6440)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)As above.
יְהוָ֖הYHWHproper noun · יְהוָה (H3068)Object of prepositionAs above.
תָּמִֽידcontinuallyN m sg abs (adverbial) · תָּמִיד (H8548)Adverbial accusative (manner/duration)תָּמִיד (H8548); as v.29, closing the breastpiece unit (vv.15–30) with the same note of perpetuity.
31

וְעָשִׂ֛יתָ אֶת מְעִ֥יל הָאֵפ֖וֹד כְּלִ֥יל תְּכֵֽלֶת

And you shall make the robe of the ephod all of blue.

New section (introduces the robe)וְ
Opens the robe unit (vv.31–35), the third garment of v.4's list; unusually simple in material (solid blue only) compared to the ephod and breastpiece, it gains its distinctive ornamentation not from woven color but from the hem's pomegranates and bells (vv.33–34).
Word-by-word analysis· 6 words
וְעָשִׂ֛יתָand you shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); opens the robe section (vv.31–35), the third of the six garments listed in v.4.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks מְעִיל הָאֵפוֹד as object.
מְעִ֥ילthe robe ofN m sg constr · מְעִיל (H4598)Direct object (construct chain)מְעִיל (H4598); as v.4, the sleeveless robe worn beneath the ephod.
הָאֵפ֖וֹדthe ephodart + N m sg abs · אֵפוֹד (H646)Genitive complement in construct chainאֵפוֹד (H646); the robe's name identifies it by its relation to the ephod worn over it.
כְּלִ֥ילentirely ofadj m sg constr · כָּלִיל (H3632)Adverbial accusative (material/manner), construct headכָּלִיל (H3632) 'whole, entire', from כלל 'to complete'; unlike the ephod's five-material blend, the robe is a single solid color throughout.
תְּכֵֽלֶתblueN f sg abs · תְּכֵלֶת (H8504)Genitive complement in construct chainתְּכֵלֶת (H8504); as v.5; the robe's single hue, unlike the ephod's five materials — a plain sea-blue mantle.
32

וְהָיָ֥ה פִֽי רֹאשׁ֖וֹ בְּתוֹכ֑וֹ שָׂפָ֡ה יִֽהְיֶה֩ לְפִ֨יו סָבִ֜יב מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה אֹרֵ֗ג כְּפִ֥י תַחְרָ֛א יִֽהְיֶה לּ֖וֹ לֹ֥א יִקָּרֵֽעַ

And there shall be an opening for its head in the middle of it; it shall have a woven binding all around its opening, like the opening of a coat of mail, so that it will not be torn.

Continuation (structural detail: neck opening)וְ
A practical construction note interrupting the ornamental description — the robe, pulled over the head with no other opening, needs a reinforced, woven-in collar so continual use will not tear it; the comparison to תַחְרָא (a rare, otherwise unattested term) shows the instructions drawing on familiar craft vocabulary now largely lost to us.
Word-by-word analysis· 16 words
וְהָיָ֥הand there shall beconj וְ + Qal perf 3ms (weqatal) · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionהָיָה (H1961) 'to be'; existential, introducing the head-opening.
פִֽיthe opening ofN m sg constr · פֶּה (H6310)Subject (construct chain)פֶּה (H6310) 'mouth'; idiomatic for any opening/aperture — here the neck-hole of the robe.
רֹאשׁ֖וֹits headN m sg constr + Sp3ms · רֹאשׁ (H7218)Genitive complement in construct chainרֹאשׁ (H7218) 'head'; 'the mouth of its head' = the opening through which the head passes.
בְּתוֹכ֑וֹin the middle of itprep בְּ + N m sg constr + Sp3ms · תָוֶךְ (H8432)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)תָוֶךְ (H8432); as v.1, here 'in its midst' — the opening is centered in the robe.
שָׂפָ֡הa binding/edgeN f sg abs · שָׂפָה (H8193)Subject (of second clause)שָׂפָה (H8193); as v.26, here a reinforced woven collar/edging around the neck-hole.
יִֽהְיֶה֩it shall have/beQal impf 3ms · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveהָיָה (H1961); introduces the reinforcing collar.
לְפִ֨יוfor its openingprep לְ + N m sg constr + Sp3ms · פֶּה (H6310)Adverbial prepositional phrase (reference)פֶּה (H6310); as above, 'for/around its mouth [opening].'
סָבִ֜יבaroundN c sg abs (adverbial) · סָבִיב (H5439)Adverbial accusative (manner/location)סָבִיב (H5439) 'around, surrounding'; the woven binding encircles the whole neck opening.
מַעֲשֵׂ֣הwork ofN m sg constr · מַעֲשֶׂה (H4639)Adverbial accusative (manner), construct headמַעֲשֶׂה (H4639); construct with אֹרֵג, describing the weaving technique.
אֹרֵ֗גa weaverQal ptc m sg abs (substantival) · אָרַג (H707)Genitive complement in construct chain→ Substantival: nominalized agent-participle, functioning as a noun ("a weaver") rather than predicating an actionאָרַג (H707) 'to weave'; participial noun 'a weaver' — the collar is woven directly into the fabric, not sewn on afterward, for durability.
כְּפִ֥יlike the opening ofprep כְּ + N m sg constr · פֶּה (H6310)Adverbial prepositional phrase (comparative), construct headפֶּה (H6310); comparative, likening the reinforced neck-hole to a well-known type of garment opening.
תַחְרָ֛אa coat of mail/leather garmentN m sg abs · תַחְרָא (H8473)Genitive complement in construct chainתַחְרָא (H8473), a hapax legomenon of uncertain meaning — perhaps 'coat of mail,' 'leather corselet,' or a type of woven armor with a reinforced collar so it wouldn't tear when donned.
יִֽהְיֶהit shall beQal impf 3ms · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (main clause, resumptive)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveהָיָה (H1961); resumes the main clause after the comparison.
לּ֖וֹto itprep לְ + Sp3ms · לְAdverbial complement, possessiveלְ 3ms suffix; possessive, 'it [the robe] shall have [this binding].'
לֹ֥אnotnegative particle · לֹא (H3808)Negative particle, negating the following verbלֹא (H3808); introduces the purpose/result of the reinforced collar.
יִקָּרֵֽעַit shall be tornNiphal impf 3ms · קָרַע (H7167)Predicate verb (negative result clause)→ Yiqtol (negated, passive): modal — a prevented resultקָרַע (H7167) Niphal 'to be torn'; the practical rationale for the woven collar — durability under repeated donning and doffing, given the robe's ritual, no-fastener design (it is pulled over the head).
33

וְעָשִׂ֣יתָ עַל שׁוּלָ֗יו רִמֹּנֵי֙ תְּכֵ֤לֶת וְאַרְגָּמָן֙ וְתוֹלַ֣עַת שָׁנִ֔י עַל שׁוּלָ֖יו סָבִ֑יב וּפַעֲמֹנֵ֥י זָהָ֛ב בְּתוֹכָ֖ם סָבִֽיב

And you shall make on its hem pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet [material], all around its hem, and bells of gold between them, all around —

Continuation (hem ornamentation: pomegranates and bells)וְ
Introduces the alternating pomegranate-and-bell pattern that will be explained functionally in v.35 (the sound of the bells signals Aaron's movement in the sanctuary); the double סָבִיב frames the pattern as encircling the entire hem without a gap.
Word-by-word analysis· 15 words
וְעָשִׂ֣יתָand you shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); introduces the robe's distinctive hem ornamentation.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
שׁוּלָ֗יוits hemN m pl constr + Sp3ms · שׁוּל (H7757)Object of prepositionשׁוּל (H7757) 'skirt, hem, lower edge'; the bottom border of the robe, where the ornamentation hangs.
רִמֹּנֵי֙pomegranates ofN m pl constr · רִמּוֹן (H7416)Direct object (construct chain)רִמּוֹן (H7416) 'pomegranate'; woven/embroidered fruit-shaped ornaments, symbolically tied to fertility/abundance in the Promised Land (cf. Num 13:23; Deut 8:8; also on the temple pillars, 1 Kgs 7:18).
תְּכֵ֤לֶתblue,N f sg abs · תְּכֵלֶת (H8504)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.5.
וְאַרְגָּמָן֙and purple,conj וְ + N m sg abs · אַרְגָּמָן (H713)Genitive complement in construct chain, coordinateAs v.5.
וְתוֹלַ֣עַתand worm ofconj וְ + N f sg constr · תולַעת (H8438)Construct head, coordinate genitiveAs v.5.
שָׁנִ֔יscarlet,N m sg abs · שָׁנִי (H8144)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.5.
עַלaroundprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative), resumedעַל (H5921); resumed to reintroduce the location before סָבִיב.
שׁוּלָ֖יוits hem,N m pl constr + Sp3ms · שׁוּל (H7757)Object of prepositionAs above.
סָבִ֑יבall around,N c sg abs (adverbial) · סָבִיב (H5439)Adverbial accusative (location)סָבִיב (H5439); as v.32, the ornamentation encircles the entire hem.
וּפַעֲמֹנֵ֥יand bells ofconj וְ + N m pl constr · פַּעֲמוֹן (H6472)Direct object (construct chain)פַּעֲמוֹן (H6472) 'bell', likely from פעם 'to beat, strike' (the sound of striking); small gold bells alternating with the cloth pomegranates.
זָהָ֛בgoldN m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
בְּתוֹכָ֖םbetween them,prep בְּ + N m sg constr + Sp3mp · תָוֶךְ (H8432)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)תָוֶךְ (H8432); as v.1, 'in their midst' — the bells alternate between the pomegranates.
סָבִֽיבall aroundN c sg abs (adverbial) · סָבִיב (H5439)Adverbial accusative (location), resumptiveסָבִיב (H5439); repeated to close the verse, emphasizing the pattern's completeness round the whole hem.
34

פַּעֲמֹ֤ן זָהָב֙ וְרִמּ֔וֹן פַּֽעֲמֹ֥ן זָהָ֖ב וְרִמּ֑וֹן עַל שׁוּלֵ֥י הַמְּעִ֖יל סָבִֽיב

a golden bell and a pomegranate, a golden bell and a pomegranate, all around the hem of the robe.

Specification (the precise alternating pattern)asyndeton
A rhythmic, almost liturgical repetition (bell-pomegranate, bell-pomegranate) that spells out in miniature what v.33 stated generally — the pattern itself performed by the verse's own repetitive syntax.
Word-by-word analysis· 10 words
פַּעֲמֹ֤ןa bell ofN m sg constr · פַּעֲמוֹן (H6472)Subject (apposition, distributive list)פַּעֲמוֹן (H6472); as v.33, now specifying the exact alternating pattern, one bell per pomegranate.
זָהָב֙goldN m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
וְרִמּ֔וֹןand a pomegranate,conj וְ + N m sg abs · רִמּוֹן (H7416)Subject, coordinateרִמּוֹן (H7416); as v.33, singular here to establish the one-to-one alternating rhythm.
פַּֽעֲמֹ֥ןa bell ofN m sg constr · פַּעֲמוֹן (H6472)Subject (apposition, repeated for emphasis)Repetition of the pattern-unit, emphasizing the unbroken bell-pomegranate-bell-pomegranate sequence.
זָהָ֖בgold,N m sg abs · זָהָב (H2091)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
וְרִמּ֑וֹןand a pomegranate,conj וְ + N m sg abs · רִמּוֹן (H7416)Subject, coordinateAs above.
עַלaroundprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
שׁוּלֵ֥יthe hem ofN m pl constr · שׁוּל (H7757)Object of preposition (construct chain)שׁוּל (H7757); as v.33.
הַמְּעִ֖ילthe robe,art + N m sg abs · מְעִיל (H4598)Genitive complement in construct chainמְעִיל (H4598); as above.
סָבִֽיבall aroundN c sg abs (adverbial) · סָבִיב (H5439)Adverbial accusative (location)סָבִיב (H5439); closes the description, third occurrence of the term in vv.33–34, insisting on total, gapless coverage of the hem.
35

וְהָיָ֥ה עַֽל אַהֲרֹ֖ן לְשָׁרֵ֑ת וְנִשְׁמַ֣ע ק֠וֹלוֹ בְּבֹא֨וֹ אֶל הַקֹּ֜דֶשׁ לִפְנֵ֧י יְהוָ֛ה וּבְצֵאת֖וֹ וְלֹ֥א יָמֽוּת

And it shall be on Aaron when he ministers, so that its sound may be heard when he goes into the holy place before YHWH, and when he comes out, so that he does not die.

Climax (theological rationale, closes the robe unit)וְ
Closes the robe unit (vv.31–35) with its gravest rationale yet in the chapter: the bells' sound functions almost sacramentally, making Aaron's entry/exit before YHWH audible and averting death — vestments here are literally life-preserving, tying dress directly to the holiness-and-danger theme of the whole tabernacle cultus.
Word-by-word analysis· 14 words
וְהָיָ֥הand it shall beconj וְ + Qal perf 3ms (weqatal) · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionהָיָה (H1961); the robe (with its bells) shall be worn during service — introduces the functional/theological rationale.
עַֽלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative, 'upon Aaron' — the robe worn on his person.
אַהֲרֹ֖ןAaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)Object of prepositionAs v.1.
לְשָׁרֵ֑תto ministerprep לְ + Piel inf constr · שָׁרַת (H8334)Purpose/temporal infinitive clause→ Infinitival: purpose/occasion — the setting of priestly serviceשָׁרַת (H8334) Piel 'to serve, minister'; the technical term for priestly cultic service, distinct from the more general כָּהַן.
וְנִשְׁמַ֣עso that it may be heardconj וְ + Niphal perf 3ms (weqatal) · שָׁמַע (H8085)Predicate verb (weqatal, purpose/result clause)→ Weqatal (passive): purpose — the audible result of the bellsשָׁמַע (H8085) Niphal 'to be heard'; the theological point of the bells — Aaron's approach and movement are audible, marking his presence before God.
ק֠וֹלוֹits soundN m sg constr + Sp3ms · קוֹל (H6963)Subject of נִשְׁמַעקוֹל (H6963) 'voice, sound'; here the ringing of the golden bells (v.34), not Aaron's own voice.
בְּבֹא֨וֹwhen he goes inprep בְּ + Qal inf constr + Sp3ms · בּוֹא (H935)Temporal infinitive clause→ Infinitival: temporalבּוֹא (H935); as v.29, marking the moment of entering the sanctuary.
אֶלintoprep · אֶל (H413)Adverbial prepositional phrase (goal)אֶל (H413) 'to, into.'
הַקֹּ֜דֶשׁthe holy placeart + N m sg abs · קֹדֶשׁ (H6944)Object of prepositionAs v.29.
לִפְנֵ֧יbeforeprep לְ + N c pl constr · פָּנִים (H6440)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)As v.12.
יְהוָ֛הYHWHproper noun · יְהוָה (H3068)Object of prepositionAs above.
וּבְצֵאת֖וֹand when he comes outconj וְ + prep בְּ + Qal inf constr + Sp3ms · יָצָא (H3318)Temporal infinitive clause, coordinate with בְּבֹאוֹ→ Infinitival: temporalיָצָא (H3318) 'to go out'; paired with בּוֹא, 'coming in and going out' bracket the entire sanctuary visit — the bells sound throughout.
וְלֹ֥אso that notconj וְ + negative particle · לֹא (H3808)Negative particle, introducing final purpose/result clauseלֹא (H3808); introduces the ultimate, severe stakes of the whole robe-and-bells prescription.
יָמֽוּתhe shall dieQal impf 3ms · מוּת (H4191)Predicate verb (negative purpose/result clause)→ Yiqtol (negated): modal — a life-or-death consequenceמוּת (H4191) 'to die'; the bells' audible presence averts mortal danger — unauthorized or unmarked entry into God's presence is lethal (cf. Nadab/Abihu, Lev 10; Aaron's incense, Lev 16:2,13).
36

וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ צִּ֖יץ זָהָ֣ב טָה֑וֹר וּפִתַּחְתָּ֤ עָלָיו֙ פִּתּוּחֵ֣י חֹתָ֔ם קֹ֖דֶשׁ לַֽיהוָֽה

And you shall make a plate of pure gold and engrave on it, like the engravings of a seal: 'Holy to YHWH.'

New section (introduces the golden plate/inscription)וְ
Opens the plate unit (vv.36–38); after chapters of construction detail, this verse's climax is textual — the only actual words inscribed anywhere in the tabernacle instructions are these three: קֹדֶשׁ לַיהוָה, 'Holy to YHWH,' the terse theological center of the entire vestment complex.
Word-by-word analysis· 10 words
וְעָשִׂ֥יתָand you shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); opens the golden-plate unit (vv.36–38), the fourth of the six garments.
צִּ֖יץa plate/flower ofN m sg constr · צִיץ (H6731)Direct object (construct chain)צִיץ (H6731) 'blossom, flower' or 'plate, shining ornament'; a thin gold plate/rosette, its name suggesting a flower- or petal-like shape (cf. the parallel designation נֵזֶר 'diadem,' 29:6; 39:30).
זָהָ֣בgold,N m sg abs (genitive use) · זָהָב (H2091)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above.
טָה֑וֹרpureadj m sg abs · טָהוֹר (H2889)Attributive adjective modifying זָהָבטָהוֹר (H2889); as v.14, the highest-grade gold, reserved for the most sacred items.
וּפִתַּחְתָּ֤and you shall engraveconj וְ + Piel perf 2ms (weqatal) · פָּתַח (H6605)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionפָּתַח (H6605); as v.9, the same engraving verb used for the shoulder-stones, now for the plate's inscription.
עָלָיו֙on itprep עַל + Sp3ms · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); the surface receiving the inscription.
פִּתּוּחֵ֣יengravings ofN m pl constr · פִּתּוּחַ (H6603)Adverbial accusative (manner), construct headפִּתּוּחַ (H6603); as v.11,21, the seal-cutting technique.
חֹתָ֔םa seal:N m sg abs · חֹתָם (H2368)Genitive complement in construct chainחֹתָם (H2368); as above; the plate itself functions like Aaron's personal seal before God.
קֹ֖דֶשׁHolyN m sg abs (in construct-like predicate) · קֹדֶשׁ (H6944)Predicate nominative (the inscription's content)קֹדֶשׁ (H6944); as vv.2,4, but here forming the terse inscription itself — 'holiness/holy' — the chapter's most explicit theological label, worn visibly on Aaron's forehead.
לַֽיהוָֽהto YHWHprep לְ + proper noun · יְהוָה (H3068)Predicate complement (completes the inscription)יְהוָה (H3068); completes the inscription 'Holy to YHWH' (קֹדֶשׁ לַיהוָה) — the plate's words declare Aaron's (and by extension Israel's) consecrated status directly to God.
37

וְשַׂמְתָּ֤ אֹתוֹ֙ עַל פְּתִ֣יל תְּכֵ֔לֶת וְהָיָ֖ה עַל הַמִּצְנָ֑פֶת אֶל מ֥וּל פְּנֵֽי הַמִּצְנֶ֖פֶת יִהְיֶֽה

And you shall put it on a cord of blue, and it shall be on the turban; it shall be at the front of the turban.

Continuation (attachment and placement of the plate)וְ
Specifies how (blue cord) and where (turban's front) the plate is worn, positioning it — like the breastpiece's blue-corded lower rings (v.28) — with the same distinctive royal-priestly blue thread.
Word-by-word analysis· 13 words
וְשַׂמְתָּ֤and you shall putconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · שָׂם (H7760)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionשׂוּם/שָׂם (H7760); as v.12, attaching the plate to its cord.
אֹתוֹ֙itobj marker + Sp3ms · אֵת (H853)Direct-object marker with pronominal suffixאֵת (H853) 3ms, resuming צִיץ as object.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
פְּתִ֣ילa cord ofN m sg constr · פָּתִיל (H6616)Object of preposition (construct chain)פָּתִיל (H6616); as v.28, the same term for the connecting cord, here binding the plate to the turban.
תְּכֵ֔לֶתblue,N f sg abs · תְּכֵלֶת (H8504)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.5.
וְהָיָ֖הand it shall beconj וְ + Qal perf 3ms (weqatal) · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionהָיָה (H1961); places the plate-and-cord assembly on the turban.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
הַמִּצְנָ֑פֶתthe turban,art + N f sg abs · מִצְנֶפֶת (H4701)Object of prepositionמִצְנֶפֶת (H4701); as v.4, the linen headdress introduced here in its own detailed unit.
אֶלatprep · אֶל (H413)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)אֶל (H413); marking precise placement.
מ֥וּלthe front ofprep (as noun) · מוּל (H4136)Object of preposition (construct-like)מוּל (H4136); as v.25,27, 'in front of.'
פְּנֵֽיthe face ofN c pl constr · פָּנִים (H6440)Genitive complement in construct chainפָּנִים (H6440); as v.25, construct with הַמִּצְנֶפֶת.
הַמִּצְנֶ֖פֶתthe turbanart + N f sg abs · מִצְנֶפֶת (H4701)Genitive complement in construct chainAs above; the plate is positioned prominently on the turban's front, visible on Aaron's forehead.
יִהְיֶֽהit shall beQal impf 3ms · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (main clause, resumptive)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveהָיָה (H1961); resumptive, closing the verse's placement instructions.
38

וְהָיָה֮ עַל מֵ֣צַח אַהֲרֹן֒ וְנָשָׂ֨א אַהֲרֹ֜ן אֶת עֲוֺ֣ן הַקֳּדָשִׁ֗ים אֲשֶׁ֤ר יַקְדִּ֨ישׁוּ֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל לְכָֽל מַתְּנֹ֖ת קָדְשֵׁיהֶ֑ם וְהָיָ֤ה עַל מִצְחוֹ֙ תָּמִ֔יד לְרָצ֥וֹן לָהֶ֖ם לִפְנֵ֥י יְהוָֽה

And it shall be on Aaron's forehead, and Aaron shall bear the iniquity connected with the holy things that the Israelites consecrate, all their holy gifts; and it shall be on his forehead continually, for their acceptance before YHWH.

Climax (theological rationale, closes the golden-plate unit)וְ
Closes the plate unit (vv.36–38) with the chapter's most explicit statement of vicarious/atoning representation: the visible inscription 'Holy to YHWH' does active theological work, absorbing the guilt latent in Israel's flawed worship so that her offerings — and her worshipers — remain acceptable to God; this completes a three-stage crescendo of the chapter's bearing-motif: names (v.12) → judgment (v.30) → iniquity (v.38).
Word-by-word analysis· 24 words
וְהָיָה֮and it shall beconj וְ + Qal perf 3ms (weqatal) · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionהָיָה (H1961); locates the plate precisely, on Aaron's forehead.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
מֵ֣צַחthe forehead ofN m sg constr · מֵצַח (H4696)Object of preposition (construct chain)מֵצַח (H4696) 'forehead'; the most exposed, prominent part of Aaron's body, publicly displaying the plate's inscription.
אַהֲרֹן֒Aaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.1.
וְנָשָׂ֨אand he shall bearconj וְ + Qal perf 3ms (weqatal) · נָשָׂא (H5375)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionנָשָׂא (H5375); as vv.12,29,30, but with a striking new sense — 'bear iniquity' (נָשָׂא עָוֹן), the standard idiom for taking on/atoning for guilt.
אַהֲרֹ֜ןAaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)SubjectAs v.1.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks עֲוֹן הַקֳּדָשִׁים as object.
עֲוֺ֣ןthe iniquity ofN c sg constr · עָוֹן (H5771)Direct object (construct chain)עָוֹן (H5771) 'iniquity, guilt, punishment (for sin)'; the plate's inscription 'Holy to YHWH' functions to absorb/cover any inadvertent defilement in Israel's offerings.
הַקֳּדָשִׁ֗יםthe holy thingsart + N m pl abs · קֹדֶשׁ (H6944)Genitive complement in construct chainקֹדֶשׁ (H6944); plural, 'the holy things/sacred gifts' — the offerings and dedicated items Israel brings, which may be inadvertently blemished or improperly consecrated.
אֲשֶׁ֤רthatrelative particle · אֲשֶׁר (H834)Relative pronoun, introducing relative clause modifying הַקֳּדָשִׁיםאֲשֶׁר (H834); introduces the clause specifying which holy things are meant.
יַקְדִּ֨ישׁוּ֙they consecrateHiphil impf 3mp · קָדַשׁ (H6942)Predicate verb of relative clause→ Yiqtol: modal/future — describing an ongoing practiceקָדַשׁ (H6942) Hiphil 'to consecrate, dedicate'; the Israelites' own ongoing act of bringing sacred gifts, potentially flawed despite good intent.
בְּנֵ֣יsons ofN m pl constr · בֵן (H1121)Subject (construct chain)As above.
יִשְׂרָאֵ֔לIsraelproper noun · יִשְׂרָאֵל (H3478)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.1.
לְכָֽלfor/of allprep לְ + N m sg constr · כֹּל (H3605)Adverbial prepositional phrase (reference), construct headכֹּל (H3605); as v.3, totalizing 'all their holy gifts.'
מַתְּנֹ֖תthe gifts ofN f pl constr · מַתָּנָה (H4979)Genitive complement, construct headמַתָּנָה (H4979) 'gift', from נתן 'to give'; the votive/dedicated offerings brought by the people.
קָדְשֵׁיהֶ֑םtheir holinessN m pl constr + Sp3mp · קֹדֶשׁ (H6944)Genitive complement in construct chainקֹדֶשׁ (H6944); 'their holy gifts' — the totality of Israel's sacred donations, now covered by the plate's atoning inscription.
וְהָיָ֤הand it shall beconj וְ + Qal perf 3ms (weqatal) · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionהָיָה (H1961); resumptive, repeating the placement clause of v.38a to bracket the atonement statement.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative.
מִצְחוֹ֙his foreheadN m sg constr + Sp3ms · מֵצַח (H4696)Object of prepositionמֵצַח (H4696); as above, now with 3ms suffix, resuming Aaron's forehead.
תָּמִ֔ידcontinually,N m sg abs (adverbial) · תָּמִיד (H8548)Adverbial accusative (manner/duration)תָּמִיד (H8548); as vv.29–30, the plate's atoning function is standing and ongoing, not occasional.
לְרָצ֥וֹןfor acceptanceprep לְ + N m sg abs · רָצוֹן (H7522)Adverbial prepositional phrase (purpose/result)רָצוֹן (H7522) 'favor, acceptance, goodwill', from רצה 'to be pleased with'; names the ultimate goal — that Israel's imperfect offerings still be graciously received by God.
לָהֶ֖םfor themprep לְ + Sp3mp · לְAdverbial prepositional phrase (beneficiary)לְ 3mp suffix; the beneficiaries of the plate's atoning/mediating function are the people of Israel.
לִפְנֵ֥יbeforeprep לְ + N c pl constr · פָּנִים (H6440)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative, before God)פָּנִים (H6440); as v.12.
יְהוָֽהYHWHproper noun · יְהוָה (H3068)Object of prepositionAs above.
39

וְשִׁבַּצְתָּ֙ הַכְּתֹ֣נֶת שֵׁ֔שׁ וְעָשִׂ֖יתָ מִצְנֶ֣פֶת שֵׁ֑שׁ וְאַבְנֵ֥ט תַּעֲשֶׂ֖ה מַעֲשֵׂ֥ה רֹקֵֽם

And you shall weave the tunic in checker work of fine linen, and you shall make a turban of fine linen, and you shall make a sash, the work of an embroiderer.

New section (tunic, turban, sash detailed)וְ
Opens the closing unit (vv.39–43), briskly covering the three remaining garments from v.4's list in a single verse — far less elaborate than the ephod or breastpiece, reflecting their more utilitarian character, though still fine linen and skilled embroidery.
Word-by-word analysis· 10 words
וְשִׁבַּצְתָּ֙and you shall weave in checker workconj וְ + Piel perf 2ms (weqatal) · שָׁבַץ (H7660)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionשָׁבַץ (H7660) Piel 'to weave in checkered pattern' (cf. תַשְׁבֵּץ v.4, מִשְׁבְּצָה vv.11 etc.); opens the final unit (vv.39–43) covering the tunic, turban, sash, and priestly undergarments.
הַכְּתֹ֣נֶתthe tunicart + N f sg abs · כְּתֹנֶת (H3801)Direct objectכְּתֹנֶת (H3801); as v.4, now given its own detailed instruction.
שֵׁ֔שׁof fine linen,N (adjectival) f sg abs · שֵׁשׁ (H8336)Adverbial accusative (material)שֵׁשׁ (H8336); as v.5, the single, undyed material for Aaron's basic garment (contrast the multicolored ephod/breastpiece).
וְעָשִׂ֖יתָand you shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); the turban's own instruction.
מִצְנֶ֣פֶתa turbanN f sg abs · מִצְנֶפֶת (H4701)Direct objectמִצְנֶפֶת (H4701); as v.4, now detailed for its material.
שֵׁ֑שׁof fine linen,N (adjectival) f sg abs · שֵׁשׁ (H8336)Adverbial accusative (material)As above.
וְאַבְנֵ֥טand a sashconj וְ + N m sg abs · אַבְנֵט (H73)Direct object (fronted)אַבְנֵט (H73); as v.4, now detailed.
תַּעֲשֶׂ֖הyou shall make,Qal impf 2ms · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveעָשָׂה (H6213); resumed after the fronted object.
מַעֲשֵׂ֥הthe work ofN m sg constr · מַעֲשֶׂה (H4639)Adverbial accusative (manner), construct headמַעֲשֶׂה (H4639); as v.6, construct with רֹקֵם.
רֹקֵֽםan embroidererQal ptc m sg abs (substantival) · רָקַם (H7551)Genitive complement in construct chain→ Substantival: nominalized agent-participle, functioning as a noun ("an embroiderer") rather than predicating an actionרָקַם (H7551) 'to weave variegated/embroidered cloth'; a skilled but slightly lesser grade than the חֹשֵׁב 'designer' (v.6) — used for the sash (and the courtyard screen, 27:16), suggesting a graded hierarchy of craftsmanship across the tabernacle textiles.
40

וְלִבְנֵ֤י אַהֲרֹן֙ תַּעֲשֶׂ֣ה כֻתֳּנֹ֔ת וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ לָהֶ֖ם אַבְנֵטִ֑ים וּמִגְבָּעוֹת֙ תַּעֲשֶׂ֣ה לָהֶ֔ם לְכָב֖וֹד וּלְתִפְאָֽרֶת

And for Aaron's sons you shall make tunics, and you shall make sashes for them, and you shall make headgear for them, for glory and for beauty.

Continuation (garments for the ordinary priests)וְ
Extends the vestment provision to Aaron's sons with simpler garments, but explicitly under the same rubric as v.2 (לְכָבוֹד וּלְתִפְאָרֶת), forming an inclusio with the chapter's opening and affirming that all priests, not only the high priest, share in the office's dignity.
Word-by-word analysis· 12 words
וְלִבְנֵ֤יand for the sons ofconj וְ + prep לְ + N m pl constr · בֵן (H1121)Adverbial prepositional phrase (beneficiary), frontedבֵן (H1121); shifts attention from Aaron alone to his sons, the ordinary priests.
אַהֲרֹן֙Aaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)Genitive complement in construct chainAs v.1.
תַּעֲשֶׂ֣הyou shall makeQal impf 2ms · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveעָשָׂה (H6213); the sons' garments are simpler and fewer than Aaron's — tunics, sashes, headgear only, no ephod/breastpiece/robe/plate.
כֻתֳּנֹ֔תtunicsN f pl abs · כְּתֹנֶת (H3801)Direct objectכְּתֹנֶת (H3801); as v.4,39, plural since multiple sons are in view.
וְעָשִׂ֥יתָand you shall makeconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionעָשָׂה (H6213); as above.
לָהֶ֖םfor themprep לְ + Sp3mp · לְAdverbial prepositional phrase (beneficiary)לְ 3mp suffix, referring to Aaron's sons.
אַבְנֵטִ֑יםsashesN m pl abs · אַבְנֵט (H73)Direct objectאַבְנֵט (H73); as v.4,39, plural for the sons.
וּמִגְבָּעוֹת֙and headgearconj וְ + N f pl abs · מִגְבָּעָה (H4021)Direct object (fronted)מִגְבָּעָה (H4021) 'headgear, cap', from גבע 'to be high/rounded'; distinct from Aaron's מִצְנֶפֶת 'turban' — a simpler cap for the ordinary priests, marking rank distinction even within the priesthood.
תַּעֲשֶׂ֣הyou shall makeQal impf 2ms · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveעָשָׂה (H6213); resumed after the fronted object.
לָהֶ֔םfor them,prep לְ + Sp3mp · לְAdverbial prepositional phrase (beneficiary)As above.
לְכָב֖וֹדfor gloryprep לְ + N c sg abs · כָּבוֹד (H3519)Adverbial prepositional phrase (purpose)כָּבוֹד (H3519); as v.2, the same purpose-formula now applied to the ordinary priests' more modest garments — dignity is not reserved for the high priest alone.
וּלְתִפְאָֽרֶתand for beautyconj וְ + prep לְ + N f sg abs · תִּפְאֶרֶת (H8597)Adverbial prepositional phrase (purpose), coordinateתִּפְאֶרֶת (H8597); as v.2, closing the sons' garment-unit with the same hendiadys that opened the whole chapter (v.2), forming a broad inclusio.
41

וְהִלְבַּשְׁתָּ֤ אֹתָם֙ אֶת אַהֲרֹ֣ן אָחִ֔יךָ וְאֶת בָּנָ֖יו אִתּ֑וֹ וּמָשַׁחְתָּ֨ אֹתָ֜ם וּמִלֵּאתָ֧ אֶת יָדָ֛ם וְקִדַּשְׁתָּ֥ אֹתָ֖ם וְכִהֲנ֥וּ לִֽי

And you shall clothe Aaron your brother and his sons with him, and anoint them, and ordain them, and consecrate them, that they may serve me as priests.

Climax (enacts the whole chapter: clothing as ordination)וְ
A tightly packed chain of five weqatal verbs (clothe–anoint–fill the hand–consecrate–serve) enacts, in miniature, the entire chapter's purpose; the repetition of v.1's phrasing (אֶת־אַהֲרֹן אָחִיךָ וְאֶת־בָּנָיו אִתּוֹ…לִי) forms a deliberate inclusio, showing that every garment described since v.4 has been leading to this moment of investiture.
Word-by-word analysis· 17 words
וְהִלְבַּשְׁתָּ֤and you shall clotheconj וְ + Hiphil perf 2ms (weqatal) · לָבַשׁ (H3847)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionלָבַשׁ (H3847) Hiphil 'to clothe (someone)'; causative, Moses is to dress Aaron and his sons, the culminating act enacting all the garment-instructions of the chapter.
אֹתָם֙with themobj marker + Sp3mp (instrumental use) · אֵת (H853)Direct-object marker functioning instrumentally ('with them')אֵת (H853), here marking the garments as the means of clothing — 'clothe [Aaron] with them [the garments].'
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks אַהֲרֹן as the direct object of clothing.
אַהֲרֹ֣ןAaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)Direct objectAs v.1.
אָחִ֔יךָyour brotherN m sg constr + Sp2ms · אָח (H251)Apposition to אַהֲרֹןאָח (H251); as v.1,2, the recurring kinship reminder, now at the moment of consecration itself.
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + direct-object marker (second object)Marks בָּנָיו as second object.
בָּנָ֖יוhis sonsN m pl constr + Sp3ms · בֵן (H1121)Direct object (second object)בֵן (H1121); as v.1.
אִתּ֑וֹwith himprep אֵת + Sp3ms · אֵת (H854)Adverbial prepositional phrase (accompaniment)אֵת (H854); as v.1, echoing the chapter's opening formula almost verbatim, forming a strong inclusio closing the human-agent frame.
וּמָשַׁחְתָּ֨and you shall anointconj וְ + Qal perf 2ms (weqatal) · מָשַׁח (H4886)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionמָשַׁח (H4886) 'to anoint'; the oil-anointing rite (detailed in Exod 29, Lev 8), the second stage of ordination after clothing.
אֹתָ֜םthemobj marker + Sp3mp · אֵת (H853)Direct-object marker with pronominal suffixאֵת (H853), resuming Aaron and sons as object.
וּמִלֵּאתָ֧and you shall ordainconj וְ + Piel perf 2ms (weqatal) · מָלֵא (H4390)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionמָלֵא (H4390) Piel; here idiomatic in the phrase מִלֵּא יָד 'to fill the hand,' the standard Hebrew idiom for ordination/installation to office (cf. same root used of gem-setting, v.17, and craftsmen's skill, v.3 — a unifying wordplay across the chapter).
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerMarks יָדָם as object.
יָדָ֛םtheir hand(s)N c sg constr + Sp3mp · יָד (H3027)Direct object (construct chain)יָד (H3027) 'hand'; object of the idiom 'fill the hand' = ordain, install into priestly office (perhaps originally referring to placing a portion of the sacrifice in the priest's hands, cf. Lev 8:27-28).
וְקִדַּשְׁתָּ֥and you shall consecrateconj וְ + Piel perf 2ms (weqatal) · קָדַשׁ (H6942)Predicate verb (weqatal, main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionקָדַשׁ (H6942) Piel; as v.3, the culminating act — consecration completing the ordination sequence: clothe, anoint, fill the hand, consecrate.
אֹתָ֖םthemobj marker + Sp3mp · אֵת (H853)Direct-object marker with pronominal suffixאֵת (H853), resuming Aaron and sons.
וְכִהֲנ֥וּthat they may serve as priestsconj וְ + Piel perf 3cp (weqatal) · כָּהַן (H3547)Predicate verb (weqatal, purpose/result clause)→ Weqatal: purpose/result — the goal of the whole ordinationכָּהַן (H3547) Piel; as v.1,3,4, the chapter's recurring purpose-verb, now stated as the direct result of the completed ordination rite.
לִֽיto meprep לְ + Sp1cs · לְAdverbial complement of וְכִהֲנוּלְ 1cs suffix; closes the ordination formula exactly as the chapter's opening did (v.1), YHWH again named as the one served — a final inclusio.
42

וַעֲשֵׂ֤ה לָהֶם֙ מִכְנְסֵי בָ֔ד לְכַסּ֖וֹת בְּשַׂ֣ר עֶרְוָ֑ה מִמָּתְנַ֥יִם וְעַד יְרֵכַ֖יִם יִהְיֽוּ

And make for them linen breeches to cover naked flesh; they shall reach from the loins to the thighs.

New sub-unit (priestly undergarments, modesty concern)וְ
A sudden imperative (וַעֲשֵׂה, breaking the weqatal chain) introduces the humblest, most private garment last — the linen breeches whose sole purpose is modesty, setting up the mortal stakes of v.43 (exposure before the altar risks death, echoing v.35's peril).
Word-by-word analysis· 11 words
וַעֲשֵׂ֤הand makeconj וְ + Qal impv 2ms · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (imperative, main clause)→ Volitional: imperative commandעָשָׂה (H6213); shifts to direct imperative (rather than weqatal), marking this final undergarment instruction as an urgent, almost afterthought-like addendum — modesty is non-negotiable.
לָהֶם֙for themprep לְ + Sp3mp · לְAdverbial prepositional phrase (beneficiary)לְ 3mp suffix, referring to Aaron and his sons collectively — all priests need this garment.
מִכְנְסֵיbreeches ofN m pl constr · מִכְנָס (H4370)Direct object (construct chain)מִכְנְסַיִם/מִכְנָס (H4370), a term of uncertain etymology (perhaps Persian or Egyptian loan); short undergarments/breeches, unique to this passage in the Torah's garment vocabulary.
בָ֔דlinenN m sg abs (genitive use) · בַּד (H906)Genitive complement in construct chainבַּד (H906) 'linen' (distinct from שֵׁשׁ, though both denote linen); used elsewhere for the plain linen garments of the Day of Atonement (Lev 16:4) — the humblest, most basic textile.
לְכַסּ֖וֹתto coverprep לְ + Piel inf constr · כָּסָה (H3680)Purpose infinitive clause→ Infinitival: purpose — the garment's functionכָּסָה (H3680) Piel 'to cover, conceal'; explicit statement of purpose — modesty before the altar, avoiding any exposure during priestly service (cf. v.43; also Exod 20:26).
בְּשַׂ֣רflesh ofN m sg constr · בָּשָׂר (H1320)Direct object of infinitive (construct chain)בָּשָׂר (H1320) 'flesh, body'; construct with עֶרְוָה, 'the flesh of nakedness.'
עֶרְוָ֑הnakednessN f sg abs · עֶרְוָה (H6172)Genitive complement in construct chainעֶרְוָה (H6172) 'nakedness, shame', from ערה 'to be bare'; a term with strong purity/modesty connotations throughout the Torah (cf. Lev 18); the concern here is priestly propriety before a holy God.
מִמָּתְנַ֥יִםfrom the loinsprep מִן + N m dual abs · מָתְנַיִם (H4975)Adverbial prepositional phrase (extent, starting point)מָתְנַיִם (H4975) 'loins, hips' (dual form); marks the garment's upper extent.
וְעַדand toconj וְ + prep · עַד (H5704)Adverbial prepositional phrase (extent, endpoint)עַד (H5704) 'until, as far as'; marks the garment's lower extent.
יְרֵכַ֖יִםthe thighsN f dual abs · יָרֵךְ (H3409)Object of prepositionיָרֵךְ (H3409) 'thigh' (dual form); the breeches extend from waist to mid-thigh, ensuring full coverage.
יִהְיֽוּthey shall be/reachQal impf 3mp · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: modal/future — prescriptiveהָיָה (H1961); closes the verse specifying the breeches' exact extent.
43

וְהָיוּ֩ עַל אַהֲרֹ֨ן וְעַל בָּנָ֜יו בְּבֹאָ֣ם אֶל אֹ֣הֶל מוֹעֵ֗ד א֣וֹ בְגִשְׁתָּ֤ם אֶל הַמִּזְבֵּ֨חַ֙ לְשָׁרֵ֣ת בַּקֹּ֔דֶשׁ וְלֹא יִשְׂא֥וּ עָוֺ֖ן וָמֵ֑תוּ חֻקַּ֥ת עוֹלָ֛ם ל֖וֹ וּלְזַרְע֥וֹ אַחֲרָֽיו

And they shall be on Aaron and on his sons when they go into the tent of meeting, or when they approach the altar to minister in the holy place, so that they do not bear guilt and die. It is a perpetual statute for him and for his descendants after him.

Closure (final rationale + perpetual-statute formula, closes the chapter)וְ
Closes the entire chapter with its starkest statement of stakes (bear guilt and die) and the standard Priestly closing formula (חֻקַּת עוֹלָם, 'a perpetual statute'), which both seals this final undergarment instruction and, read retrospectively, frames the whole vestment code as enduring law binding all future generations of Aaron's line.
Word-by-word analysis· 24 words
וְהָיוּ֩and they shall beconj וְ + Qal perf 3cp (weqatal) · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Weqatal: continuing instructionהָיָה (H1961); the breeches shall be worn — returns to weqatal after v.42's imperative, resuming the main instructional flow.
עַלonprep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)עַל (H5921); locative, 'upon Aaron.'
אַהֲרֹ֨ןAaronproper noun · אַהֲרֹן (H175)Object of prepositionAs v.1.
וְעַלand onconj וְ + prep · עַל (H5921)Adverbial prepositional phrase, coordinateעַל (H5921); coordinate, extending the requirement to the sons.
בָּנָ֜יוhis sonsN m pl constr + Sp3ms · בֵן (H1121)Object of prepositionבֵן (H1121); as v.1, the breeches required of all priests alike, unlike the graded distinctions in the outer vestments.
בְּבֹאָ֣םwhen they goprep בְּ + Qal inf constr + Sp3mp · בּוֹא (H935)Temporal infinitive clause→ Infinitival: temporal — the occasion requiring the garmentבּוֹא (H935); as vv.29,30,35, but now 3mp for Aaron and sons together.
אֶלintoprep · אֶל (H413)Adverbial prepositional phrase (goal)אֶל (H413) 'to, into.'
אֹ֣הֶלthe tent ofN m sg constr · אֹהֶל (H168)Object of preposition (construct chain)אֹהֶל (H168) 'tent'; construct with מוֹעֵד, the standard designation for the tabernacle as the place of divine appointment/meeting.
מוֹעֵ֗דmeeting,N m sg abs · מוֹעֵד (H4150)Genitive complement in construct chainמוֹעֵד (H4150) 'appointed time/place, meeting'; 'tent of meeting,' the tabernacle's most common name in the Priestly material, emphasizing it as the locus of God-Israel encounter.
א֣וֹordisjunctive conjunction · אוֹ (H176)Coordinating conjunction (disjunctive), joining alternative clausesאוֹ (H176) 'or'; introduces a second scenario requiring the breeches — approaching the altar specifically, in addition to entering the tent generally.
בְגִשְׁתָּ֤םwhen they approachprep בְּ + Qal inf constr + Sp3mp · נָגַשׁ (H5066)Temporal infinitive clause, coordinate with בְּבֹאָם→ Infinitival: temporalנָגַשׁ (H5066) 'to draw near, approach'; the technical verb for priestly approach to the altar (cf. its use for illicit approach in Lev 10; Num 16-18).
אֶלtoprep · אֶל (H413)Adverbial prepositional phrase (goal)אֶל (H413) 'to.'
הַמִּזְבֵּ֨חַ֙the altarart + N m sg abs · מִזְבֵּחַ (H4196)Object of prepositionמִזְבֵּחַ (H4196) 'altar', from זבח 'to sacrifice'; the bronze altar of burnt offering in the courtyard, where the priests' movement (bending, stepping up) would risk exposure without the breeches.
לְשָׁרֵ֣תto ministerprep לְ + Piel inf constr · שָׁרַת (H8334)Purpose infinitive clause→ Infinitival: purposeשָׁרַת (H8334); as v.35, the technical term for cultic service.
בַּקֹּ֔דֶשׁin the holy placeprep בְּ + art + N m sg abs · קֹדֶשׁ (H6944)Adverbial prepositional phrase (locative)קֹדֶשׁ (H6944); as vv.29,35, the sacred precinct where the highest standards of dress and conduct apply.
וְלֹאso that notconj וְ + negative particle · לֹא (H3808)Negative particle, introducing final purpose/result clauseלֹא (H3808); introduces the mortal-stakes rationale, echoing v.35.
יִשְׂא֥וּthey shall bearQal impf 3mp · נָשָׂא (H5375)Predicate verb (negative purpose/result clause)→ Yiqtol (negated): modal — a prohibited/prevented resultנָשָׂא (H5375); as vv.12,29,30,38, the chapter's recurring 'bear' verb, in its final and most severe occurrence — 'bear guilt' — the negative mirror of the honor of 'bearing' Israel's names.
עָוֺ֖ןguiltN c sg abs · עָוֹן (H5771)Direct objectעָוֹן (H5771); as v.38, 'iniquity/guilt' — here the direct, fatal consequence of improper exposure before the altar.
וָמֵ֑תוּand they shall dieconj וְ + Qal perf 3cp (weqatal) · מוּת (H4191)Predicate verb (weqatal, result clause)→ Weqatal: result — the fatal consequenceמוּת (H4191); as v.35, death is the explicit penalty for cultic impropriety — the chapter's vestment instructions end, as they began, framed by mortal danger.
חֻקַּ֥תa statute ofN c sg constr · חֻקָּה (H2708)Predicate nominative (construct chain)חֻקָּה (H2708) 'statute, prescribed law', from חקק 'to inscribe, decree'; the closing legal formula found throughout the Priestly legislation, sealing the whole chapter as binding law, not mere suggestion.
עוֹלָ֛םperpetuity,N m sg abs (genitive use) · עוֹלָם (H5769)Genitive complement in construct chainעוֹלָם (H5769) 'eternity, forever, perpetuity'; 'a perpetual statute' — the ordinance binds not just Aaron's generation but all future priestly generations.
ל֖וֹfor himprep לְ + Sp3ms · לְAdverbial prepositional phrase (beneficiary)לְ 3ms suffix, referring to Aaron.
וּלְזַרְע֥וֹand for his descendantsconj וְ + prep לְ + N m sg constr + Sp3ms · זֶרַע (H2233)Adverbial prepositional phrase (beneficiary), coordinateזֶרַע (H2233) 'seed, offspring', from זרע 'to sow'; extends the statute to all future generations of the Aaronic priesthood.
אַחֲרָֽיוafter himprep אַחַר + Sp3ms · אַחַר (H310)Adverbial prepositional phrase (temporal, following)אַחַר (H310) 'after, behind'; closes the chapter on the note of perpetual succession — the priesthood, like the garments themselves, is handed down intact across generations.