Topical Encyclopedia Precious stones have held significant value and symbolism throughout biblical history, often representing wealth, beauty, and divine favor. The Bible frequently references these stones, highlighting their importance in ancient cultures and religious practices.Biblical References and Symbolism 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, indicating the inherent value and beauty of these materials from the beginning of 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, carbuncle, emerald, sapphire, diamond, jacinth, agate, amethyst, beryl, onyx, and jasper. This use of stones signified the tribes' importance and the divine presence in priestly duties. 3. Symbol of Wealth and Power: Precious stones were often associated with wealth and power. In 1 Kings 10:2, the Queen of Sheba's visit to King Solomon is marked by her gifts of spices, gold, and precious stones, underscoring their role as symbols of prosperity and status. 4. Heavenly Imagery: The Book of Revelation uses precious stones to describe the New Jerusalem, emphasizing their divine and eternal significance. Revelation 21:19-21 details the foundation stones of the city walls, adorned with jasper, sapphire, chalcedony, emerald, sardonyx, sardius, chrysolite, beryl, topaz, chrysoprase, jacinth, and amethyst. The gates are described as being made of pearls, and the streets of pure gold, like transparent glass. 5. Divine Judgment and Restoration: In prophetic literature, precious stones often symbolize divine judgment and restoration. Ezekiel 28:13-14 describes the King of Tyre adorned with every precious stone, reflecting both his initial beauty and the subsequent judgment due to pride. Conversely, Isaiah 54:11-12 speaks of God's promise to restore Jerusalem, laying its foundations with sapphires and its gates with sparkling jewels. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Near Eastern cultures, precious stones were not only valued for their beauty but also for their supposed protective and healing properties. They were often used in amulets and jewelry, believed to convey divine favor or protection. The biblical use of these stones reflects a broader cultural appreciation and understanding of their significance. Theological Implications The use of precious stones in the Bible often points to deeper theological truths. They symbolize the beauty and perfection of God's creation, the value of His chosen people, and the splendor of His eternal kingdom. The imagery of precious stones in Scripture serves to remind believers of the richness of God's promises and the glory of His divine presence. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 17:8A gift is as a precious stone in the eyes of him that has it: wherever it turns, it prospers. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Shaking of the Heavens and the Earth Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... 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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