Onyx used in Erecting the Temple
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Introduction to Onyx:
Onyx is a precious stone mentioned several times in the Bible, known for its striking appearance and value. It is characterized by its layered bands of color, typically black and white, and is often associated with beauty and craftsmanship. In biblical times, onyx was highly prized and used in various religious and ceremonial contexts.

Onyx in the Tabernacle and Temple:
The use of onyx in the construction and adornment of sacred spaces is significant in the biblical narrative. Onyx stones were among the materials used in the making of the priestly garments and the construction of the Tabernacle, which served as a precursor to the Temple.

Onyx in the High Priest's Garments:
The high priest's ephod, a sacred garment, featured onyx stones as a key element. In Exodus 28:9-12 , God commands Moses: "Take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel, six of their names on one stone and the remaining six on the other, in the order of their birth. Engrave the names of the sons of Israel on the two stones as a jeweler engraves a seal, and mount them in gold filigree settings. Fasten both stones onto the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones for the sons of Israel." These stones served as a reminder of the twelve tribes of Israel and were a symbol of the high priest's role as an intercessor for the people.

Onyx in Solomon's Temple:
The construction of Solomon's Temple, a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant, involved the use of various precious materials, including onyx. While the specific mention of onyx in the context of Solomon's Temple is not detailed in the biblical text, the use of precious stones and materials is emphasized. In 1 Chronicles 29:2 , King David, in preparation for the building of the Temple, states: "Now with all my ability I have made provision for the house of my God—gold for the gold articles, silver for the silver, bronze for the bronze, iron for the iron, and wood for the wood, as well as onyx for the settings, turquoise, stones of various colors, all kinds of precious stones, and alabaster in abundance."

Symbolism and Significance:
Onyx, as a precious stone, symbolizes strength, durability, and divine beauty. Its inclusion in the sacred garments and the Temple underscores the importance of purity and holiness in worship. The use of onyx and other precious stones in the Temple reflects the glory and majesty of God, as well as the dedication of the Israelites to honor Him with the finest materials available.

Conclusion:
The presence of onyx in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the Tabernacle and Temple, highlights its significance as a symbol of divine beauty and craftsmanship. Its use in sacred spaces and garments serves as a testament to the reverence and devotion of the Israelites in their worship of God.
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1 Chronicles 29:2
Now I have prepared with all my might for the house of my God the gold for things to be made of gold, and the silver for things of silver, and the brass for things of brass, the iron for things of iron, and wood for things of wood; onyx stones, and stones to be set, glistering stones, and of divers colors, and all manner of precious stones, and marble stones in abundance.
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Resources
Is Göbekli Tepe where the Garden of Eden was located? | GotQuestions.org

What is a free will offering / freewill offering? | GotQuestions.org

What is the meaning of Pishon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Onyx: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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Subtopics

Onyx

Onyx used in Erecting the Temple

Onyx used in the Breastplate

Onyx: Contributed by Israelites for the Priests' Garments

Onyx: Exported from Havilah

Onyx: Precious Stone

Onyx: Seen in the Foundations of the City of the New Jerusalem in John's Apocalyptic Vision

Related Terms

Onyx-stones (1 Occurrence)

Onyx-stone (1 Occurrence)

Mounted (32 Occurrences)

Onycha (1 Occurrence)

Ouches (8 Occurrences)

Settings (19 Occurrences)

Ephod (45 Occurrences)

Jasper (8 Occurrences)

Gems (5 Occurrences)

Inclosed (12 Occurrences)

Filigree (9 Occurrences)

Ruby (5 Occurrences)

Enclosed (16 Occurrences)

Breastpiece (21 Occurrences)

Breast-plate (22 Occurrences)

Beryl (12 Occurrences)

Chrysolite (10 Occurrences)

Breastplate (45 Occurrences)

Inclosings (2 Occurrences)

Row (26 Occurrences)

Engravings (11 Occurrences)

Embroidered (26 Occurrences)

Enclosures (10 Occurrences)

Bdellium (2 Occurrences)

Sapphire (11 Occurrences)

Sardonyx (1 Occurrence)

Havilah (7 Occurrences)

Stones (244 Occurrences)

Fourth (87 Occurrences)

Nebuchadnezzar (90 Occurrences)

Naive (16 Occurrences)

Oozing (1 Occurrence)

Jaspar (1 Occurrence)

Lapis (3 Occurrences)

Lazuli (3 Occurrences)

Graven (61 Occurrences)

Glittering (12 Occurrences)

Glistering (3 Occurrences)

Flattering (11 Occurrences)

Fittings (2 Occurrences)

Turquoise (5 Occurrences)

Tambours (8 Occurrences)

Topaz (7 Occurrences)

Tambourines (13 Occurrences)

Tabrets (6 Occurrences)

Ruler (329 Occurrences)

Resin (4 Occurrences)

Engraved (62 Occurrences)

Emerald (8 Occurrences)

Engrave (8 Occurrences)

Diamond (5 Occurrences)

Deceive (48 Occurrences)

Mountings (1 Occurrence)

Pipes (9 Occurrences)

Pison (1 Occurrence)

Pishon (1 Occurrence)

Belly (62 Occurrences)

Carbuncle (6 Occurrences)

Carnelian (5 Occurrences)

Coral (3 Occurrences)

Adorned (20 Occurrences)

Aromatic (6 Occurrences)

Sardius (5 Occurrences)

Shoulder-piece

Smaragd (3 Occurrences)

Signets (4 Occurrences)

Signet (21 Occurrences)

Shoulderpiece

Shoham (7 Occurrences)

Sapphires (5 Occurrences)

Smooth (39 Occurrences)

Innocent (97 Occurrences)

Speech (107 Occurrences)

Valued (27 Occurrences)

Iron (104 Occurrences)

Precious (128 Occurrences)

Principal (28 Occurrences)

Leaders (167 Occurrences)

Onyx Stones and Gemstones
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