Topical Encyclopedia Precious stones, often referred to as precious jewels in the Bible, hold significant symbolic and literal value throughout the Scriptures. These stones are frequently mentioned in contexts that highlight their beauty, rarity, and worth, serving as metaphors for spiritual truths and divine attributes.Biblical References and Symbolism 1. Creation and Beauty: Precious stones are first mentioned in the context of creation and the beauty of the earth. In Genesis 2:12, the land of Havilah is noted for its gold, and the presence of bdellium and onyx stone, indicating the inherent value and beauty God placed in His creation. 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, emerald, turquoise, sapphire, diamond, jacinth, agate, amethyst, beryl, onyx, and jasper. This use of precious stones signified the value and importance of each tribe before God. 3. Symbol of Wealth and Power: Precious stones are often associated with wealth and power. In 1 Kings 10:2, the Queen of Sheba visits King Solomon, bringing with her a great quantity of spices, gold, and precious stones, signifying her wealth and the esteem in which she held Solomon. 4. Heavenly Imagery: The New Jerusalem, as described in Revelation 21:18-21, is depicted with foundations adorned with every kind of precious stone, including jasper, sapphire, chalcedony, emerald, sardonyx, carnelian, chrysolite, beryl, topaz, chrysoprase, jacinth, and amethyst. The gates are made of pearls, and the streets of pure gold, like transparent glass. This imagery underscores the glory and perfection of God's eternal kingdom. 5. Spiritual Significance: In Malachi 3:17, God refers to His faithful people as His "treasured possession" or "jewels" , indicating their preciousness to Him. This metaphor highlights the value God places on those who fear Him and serve Him faithfully. 6. Judgment and Refinement: Precious stones also symbolize the process of refinement and judgment. In 1 Corinthians 3:12-13, Paul speaks of building on the foundation of Christ with materials such as gold, silver, and precious stones, which will be tested by fire. This passage illustrates the enduring quality of works built on the foundation of Christ and the testing of believers' works. 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 status and authority. The biblical use of precious stones reflects these cultural values while also imbuing them with deeper spiritual meanings. Conclusion Throughout the Bible, precious stones serve as powerful symbols of beauty, value, and divine truth. They are used to convey the glory of God's creation, the significance of His people, and the splendor of His eternal kingdom. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Chronicles 20:25And when Jehoshaphat and his people came to take away the spoil of them, they found among them in abundance both riches with the dead bodies, and precious jewels, which they stripped off for themselves, more than they could carry away: and they were three days in gathering of the spoil, it was so much. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 20:15 Library Of Precious Stones and Pearls. Against Excessive Fondness for Jewels and Gold Ornaments. Separating the Precious from the Vile The Church Triumphant The Birth of Saint George. An Old Subscription List Of God, and the Religious Rites of the Foolish; of Avarice, and ... They Shall be Called the Children of God On the Immeasurable Joys of Heaven. Things that Accompany Salvation Resources Who does God say I am? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about when God will judge us? | GotQuestions.org What is a plumb line in the Bible? | 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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