The front part of a soldier's dress, worn for protection. In this sense Isaiah and Paul spoke of a "breastplate of righteousness," which all saints should possess, protecting the vital organs against the evil things of life (Isa. 59: 17; Eph. 6: 14).

The high priest in the law of Moses wore a breastplate as part of his sacred attire. This was called the "breastplate of judgment" (Ex. 28: 13-30; Ex. 39: 8-21). It was made of linen, very colorfully arranged, bearing 12 precious stones and the Urim and Thummim. Other references to a breastplate are found in 1 Thes. 5: 8; Rev. 9: 9; cf. D&C 17: 1; JS-H 1: 35, 42, 52.