Definition: And the stones shall be with the names of the children of Israel, twelve, according to their names, [like] the engravings of a signet; every one with his name shall they be according to the twelve tribes.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 28:21. It's a really interesting and significant passage about God’s plan for Israel! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is going to give each of the twelve tribes of Israel unique names based on their lineage. Let’s unpack that a bit: “The stones shall be with the names…” : This refers to the rocks and stones – think of them as representing people. “…of the children of Israel…” : This means all the Israelites, the group God chose to lead, will have distinct names. “…twelve, according to their names…” : God is assigning each tribe a specific name. “…like the engravings of a signet…” : This is where it gets a little poetic. “Signet” was an ancient wax seal used for important documents and records. So, this isn’t just random naming; it's like creating a unique mark or signature for each tribe. “…every one with his name shall they be according to the twelve tribes.” : This is the crucial part! God is saying that each tribe will have its own individual name, and those names will reflect their family history and lineage. It’s a way of identifying them as distinct groups within the nation. What's the point of this? The Bible says this was a deliberate act of God to: Establish Identity: It shows that Israel is not just a collection of people, but a group with a specific history and identity. Show His Care & Purpose: It demonstrates God’s meticulous planning and his desire to bless and guide his people. Important Note: This verse speaks to a very early stage of the nation's history – before they had a strong, unified government or laws. It's a powerful symbol of divine order and the importance of lineage in God's plan. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: Why is this passage significant in the Bible? What does it tell us about God’s perspective on Israel’s history?