About the Choshen
The Choshen
Throughout history, precious stones have held both spiritual and material importance. Rabbenu Bachya, in his commentary on Shemos 28, highlighted that each gem derives power from a divine source. According to the Midrash (Bereishis Rabba 14), gems even receive blessings and strength from above during rainfall.
The twelve primary categories of precious stones correspond to the gems on the Choshen, with other stones considered as variations. The twelve gems are linked to the shevatim, each stone representing unique attributes symbolized by their colors. Midrash Talpiot delves into the individual characteristics of these gems, explaining the significance behind each shevet's designated stone.
|
Levi Emerald |
Shimon Topaz |
Reuven Ruby/Carnelian |
|
Zevulun Diamond |
Yisachar Sapphire |
Yehuda Garnet |
|
Gad Amethyst |
Naftali Agate |
Dan Citrine |
|
Binyamin Jasper |
Yosef Onyx |
Asher Aquamarine |
“And you shall set it [the Choshen Mishpat] with four rows of stones; a carnelian [or carneol, or saridus], a topaz, and a smaragd [or carbuncle, or emerald, or agate] shall be the first row of stones. And the second row shall be a carbuncle [also turquoise, ruby, emerald, garnet], a sapphire, and a diamond. And the third row shall be an opal [also ligure, jacinth], an agate, and an amethyst. And the fourth row shall be a beryl [also chrysolite, topaz], and an onyx, and a jasper …” (Shemot, 28:17).