The
word "breastplate" is perhaps something of a misnomer. It must not be
thought to have been a cuirass or anything like that. It was no metal
affair designed for protection against weapons, but rather a doubled
square of cloth or a kind of ornamental waistcoat, woven with thread of
gold, blue, purple, and scarlet, and fastened with blue lace. The
stones were consequently not set in metal, but in ruches of gold
filigree work such as can be seen at this day in the ornaments of
Ancient Egypt displayed at the British Museum.
The
front part of the breastplate or Ephod is supposed to have been fitted
with a pouch or bag in which were placed the Urim and Thummin, the
oracular instruments by means of which the High Priest ascertained the
Will of God. What were these instruments? Some people think
