Topical Encyclopedia Sapphire, a precious gemstone, holds significant value and symbolism in the biblical narrative. Known for its deep blue color, the sapphire is often associated with divine attributes, heavenly realms, and spiritual purity. In the ancient world, sapphires were highly prized and considered a symbol of wisdom and royalty.Biblical References The sapphire is mentioned several times in the Bible, often in contexts that highlight its beauty and worth. In Exodus 24:10, the sapphire is associated with a divine vision: "and they saw the God of Israel. Under His feet was a work like a pavement made of sapphire, as clear as the sky itself." This passage suggests the sapphire's connection to the divine presence and the heavenly realm, emphasizing its purity and clarity. In Ezekiel 1:26, the prophet describes a vision of God's throne: "Above the expanse over their heads was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like a sapphire stone; and on the throne high above was a figure like that of a man." Here, the sapphire signifies the majesty and authority of God's throne, reinforcing its association with divine sovereignty. The Book of Revelation also references sapphires in the description of the New Jerusalem. Revelation 21:19 states, "The foundations of the city walls were adorned with every kind of precious stone: the first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald." The inclusion of sapphire in the foundation of the heavenly city underscores its enduring value and beauty in the eschatological vision. Symbolism and Significance In biblical symbolism, the sapphire is often linked to themes of truth, faithfulness, and divine favor. Its deep blue color is reminiscent of the sky and the sea, elements that evoke the vastness and depth of God's creation. The sapphire's clarity and brilliance are seen as reflections of God's purity and holiness. The use of sapphire in the high priest's breastplate, as described in Exodus 28:18, further highlights its importance. The breastplate, adorned with twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel, included a sapphire as one of its stones. This placement signifies the stone's role in representing God's covenant with His people and His enduring faithfulness. Cultural and Historical Context In the ancient Near East, sapphires were highly valued and often associated with royalty and divine favor. The gemstone was believed to possess protective qualities and was used in various forms of jewelry and ornamentation. Its enduring appeal and rarity made it a symbol of wealth and status. The Hebrew word for sapphire, "sapir," is thought to refer to a variety of blue stones, possibly including lapis lazuli. However, the biblical context and descriptions align more closely with the characteristics of the modern sapphire. Conclusion The sapphire's presence in the biblical text serves as a powerful symbol of God's majesty, purity, and eternal truth. Its recurring appearance in visions of the divine and the heavenly city underscores its significance as a representation of the divine nature and the hope of eternal communion with God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 24:10And they saw the God of Israel: and there was under his feet as it were a paved work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in his clearness. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 1:26 Library Introduction. On Counter Promises. The Promises Addressed to Jerusalem in the Prophets Refer to the ... An Advance Step in the Royal Programme High Priest The Absurdity and Shamefulness of the Images by which the Gods are ... Christ is All The New Jerusalem. The Evening of the Third Day in Passion-Week - on the Mount of ... An Exhortation to Theodore after his Fall. Letter I. Resources Is it possible for gold dust to come down during a church service? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Jesus Christ is the cornerstone? | GotQuestions.org Can a Christian lose salvation? | 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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