Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, precious stones, often referred to as jewels, hold significant symbolic and material value. These stones are frequently mentioned throughout the Scriptures, symbolizing beauty, wealth, and divine craftsmanship. They are used in various contexts, from the adornment of sacred garments to metaphors for spiritual truths.Old Testament References 1. Creation and Beauty: Precious stones are first mentioned in the context of creation and beauty. In Genesis 2:12, the land of Havilah is noted for its gold, bdellium, and onyx stone, highlighting the inherent value and beauty of these materials. 2. Priestly Garments: The high priest's breastplate, as described in Exodus 28:17-20, was adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones included sardius, topaz, carbuncle, emerald, sapphire, diamond, jacinth, agate, amethyst, beryl, onyx, and jasper. This use underscores the stones' role in representing divine order and the covenant relationship between God and His people. 3. Symbol of Wealth and Splendor: In 1 Kings 10:2, the Queen of Sheba visits King Solomon, bringing with her a great quantity of spices, gold, and precious stones. This account illustrates the association of jewels with wealth and royal splendor. 4. Prophetic Imagery: The prophets often used precious stones as symbols of restoration and divine favor. In Isaiah 54:11-12, God promises to rebuild Jerusalem with stones of turquoise and foundations of sapphires, indicating a future of glory and divine blessing. New Testament References 1. Heavenly Jerusalem: The Book of Revelation provides a vivid description of the New Jerusalem, adorned with precious stones. Revelation 21:19-21 describes the foundations of the city walls as decorated with every kind of precious stone, including jasper, sapphire, agate, emerald, onyx, carnelian, chrysolite, beryl, topaz, chrysoprase, jacinth, and amethyst. The gates are made of pearls, and the streets of pure gold, symbolizing the ultimate beauty and purity of God's eternal kingdom. 2. Spiritual Metaphors: In 1 Corinthians 3:12, the Apostle Paul uses precious stones metaphorically to describe the quality of one's work in building upon the foundation of Jesus Christ. He contrasts gold, silver, and costly stones with wood, hay, and straw, emphasizing the enduring value of spiritual work done in faith. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient times, precious stones were not only valued for their beauty but also for their supposed protective and healing properties. They were often used in trade and as symbols of power and status. The biblical use of jewels reflects these cultural values while also imbuing them with spiritual significance. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, precious stones in the Bible often symbolize the beauty and perfection of God's creation, the value of spiritual truths, and the glory of God's kingdom. They serve as reminders of the divine craftsmanship and the eternal worth of a life built upon the foundation of faith in God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 61:10I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation, he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 16:12 Library Against Excessive Fondness for Jewels and Gold Ornaments. Of Precious Stones and Pearls. An Old Subscription List Of God, and the Religious Rites of the Foolish; of Avarice, and ... The Church Triumphant Love On the Immeasurable Joys of Heaven. Effectual Calling Separating the Precious from the Vile The Emperor and Empress Resources What does it mean that Jesus and believers are living stones in 1 Peter 2:4-5? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Jesus loves the little children? | GotQuestions.org In what ways are believers partakers of the divine nature? | GotQuestions.org Precious: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lapidary: One Who Cuts Precious Stones Precious Stones of Great Variety Precious Stones of Many Colours Precious Stones used for Adorning the Breastplate of Judgment Precious Stones used for Adorning the High Priest's Ephod Precious Stones used for Adorning the Temple Precious Stones used for Decorating the Person Precious Stones used for Honoring Idols Precious Stones used for Ornamenting Royal Crowns Precious Stones used for Setting in Seals and Rings Precious Stones: A Part of the Treasure of Kings Precious Stones: Art of Engraving Upon, Early Known to the Jews Precious Stones: Art of Setting, Known to the Jews Precious Stones: Beauty and Stability of the Church Precious Stones: Brilliant and Glittering Precious Stones: Brought from Ophir Precious Stones: Brought from Sheba Precious Stones: Called: Jewels Precious Stones: Called: Precious Jewels Precious Stones: Called: Stones of Fire Precious Stones: Called: Stones to be Set Precious Stones: Dug out of the Earth Precious Stones: Extensive Commerce In Precious Stones: Given by Chief Men for the Temple Precious Stones: Given by the Jews for the Tabernacle Precious Stones: Glory of Heavenly Jerusalem Precious Stones: Highly Prized by the Ancients Precious Stones: Often Given As Presents Precious Stones: Preciousness of Christ Precious Stones: Prepared by David for the Temple Precious Stones: Sardine or Sardius Precious Stones: Seductive Splendour and False Glory of the Apostasy Precious Stones: Stability of Heavenly Jerusalem Precious Stones: Worldly Glory of Nations Related Terms |
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