What are the Urim and Thummim in the Bible?

The Urim and Thummim are intriguing and somewhat mysterious objects mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the priestly garments and their use in seeking divine guidance. These objects are first introduced in the book of Exodus and are associated with the high priest's breastplate, known as the "breastplate of judgment" (Exodus 28:15-30). The exact nature, appearance, and function of the Urim and Thummim are not explicitly detailed in the scriptures, leading to much scholarly debate and theological reflection over the centuries.

The Hebrew words "Urim" and "Thummim" are often translated as "lights" and "perfections," respectively, though their precise meanings remain uncertain. They are described as being placed in the breastplate of the high priest, which was to be worn over the ephod, a type of apron-like garment. The breastplate itself was a square piece of fabric, adorned with twelve precious stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. The Urim and Thummim were somehow incorporated into this breastplate, although the text does not specify exactly how this was done.

The primary function of the Urim and Thummim appears to have been to discern God's will in situations requiring divine guidance, particularly in matters of national importance or crisis. For example, in Numbers 27:21, it is stated that Joshua, Moses' successor, was to stand before Eleazar the priest, who would inquire for him by the judgment of the Urim before the Lord. This suggests a role in decision-making processes, where human wisdom was insufficient and divine direction was sought.

The use of the Urim and Thummim is also mentioned in several other biblical passages, although often indirectly. In 1 Samuel 28:6, King Saul seeks guidance from the Lord but receives no answer "by dreams or Urim or prophets," indicating that the Urim was one of the established means of divine communication. Similarly, in Ezra 2:63 and Nehemiah 7:65, there is a reference to not eating of the most holy things until a priest could consult the Urim and Thummim, suggesting its continued use during the post-exilic period.

The exact method by which the Urim and Thummim were used to discern God's will is not described in the Bible, leading to various interpretations and theories. Some scholars have speculated that they were stones or objects that were cast like lots, providing a binary answer such as "yes" or "no." Others suggest they may have been used in a more symbolic or ritualistic manner, with the high priest interpreting the results through divine inspiration.

Theologically, the Urim and Thummim represent an important aspect of the Israelite understanding of divine guidance and the role of the priesthood. They underscore the belief that God was actively involved in the affairs of His people and that He provided means for them to seek His will. This is consistent with the broader biblical narrative, which emphasizes God's desire for a relationship with His people and His willingness to guide them in righteousness and truth.

In Christian thought, the Urim and Thummim have often been seen as a foreshadowing of the more direct and personal guidance available to believers through the Holy Spirit. With the coming of Christ and the establishment of the New Covenant, the role of the high priest as mediator was fulfilled in Jesus, who is described as our great high priest in the book of Hebrews (Hebrews 4:14-16). The Holy Spirit, given to all believers, provides the guidance and wisdom that was once sought through the Urim and Thummim, reflecting the intimate and personal nature of the relationship believers now have with God.

Throughout history, various Christian writers have reflected on the symbolism and significance of the Urim and Thummim. John Calvin, the influential Reformer, suggested that they were a means by which God communicated His will to the Israelites, but he also acknowledged the mystery surrounding their precise nature and function. In his commentary on Exodus, Calvin emphasized that the Urim and Thummim were a sign of God's presence and His willingness to guide His people, even if the exact mechanism remained hidden from human understanding.

In contemporary Christian practice, while the Urim and Thummim are not used, the principles they represent continue to be relevant. The desire for divine guidance remains a central aspect of the Christian life, and believers are encouraged to seek God's will through prayer, the study of Scripture, and the leading of the Holy Spirit. The Urim and Thummim remind us of the importance of seeking God's direction and the assurance that He is willing to provide it.

In conclusion, the Urim and Thummim are fascinating elements of the Old Testament priestly tradition, shrouded in mystery yet rich in theological significance. They highlight the importance of divine guidance in the life of God's people and point forward to the more direct and personal relationship with God made possible through Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. While their exact nature and function may remain uncertain, their role in the biblical narrative serves as a powerful reminder of God's presence and His desire to lead His people in truth and righteousness.