Breastpiece, Breastplate

A part of the ceremonial clothing of the high priest (Exodus 25:7).

See Priests and Levites.

A piece of armor worn to protect the chest. The word is used symbolically in several passages. Isaiah 59:17 says that God wore righteousness as armor. He did this to take vengeance on his enemies. The apostle Paul urged Christians to wear a breastplate of righteousness to stand against the devil (Ephesians 6:14). He also urged them to wear a breastplate of faith and love as they await Christ's return (1 Thessalonians 5:8).

See also Armor and Weapons.