Stones of the High Priest’s Breastplate Stamp

This beautiful set of 12 stamps features the stones on the Breastplate of the High Priest as described in Exodus chapter 28. The Breastplate (or Choshen) was a small garment embellished with gemstones and one of the eight garments worn by the High Priest as he served God. Each jewel was inscribed with one of the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. The biblical description states that the breastplate was to be made up of four rows of three engraved gems, each jewel set in gold. According to biblical commentaries the Choshen (the Urim and Thummim ‚Äì literally, “the Lights and the Perfections”) was used to ascertain the divine Will regarding questions of national importance. In times of doubt and national crisis, the Urim and Thummim were consulted for advice and guidance.

The stamps were issued in 2012 The stamps with an information sheet are enclosed in a plastic protection sheet.