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 its name shall they be according to the twelve tribes.
All Commentaries on Exodus 28:21 Go To Exodus 28
Ambrose of Milan
AD 397
Of these twelve, as of twelve precious stones, is the pillar of our faith built up. For these are the precious stones—sardius, jasper, smaragd, chrysolite, and the rest—woven into the robe of holy Aaron, even of him who bears the likeness of Christ, that is, of the true Priest. [These] stones [are] set in gold and inscribed with the names of the sons of Israel, twelve stones close joined and fitting one into another, for if any should sunder or separate them, the whole fabric of the faith falls in ruins. On the Christian Faith , introduction