Topical Bible: Precious Stones: Sardonyx

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Topical Encyclopedia

Sardonyx is a precious stone mentioned in the Bible, known for its layered appearance, typically combining the colors of sard (a reddish-brown variety of chalcedony) and onyx (a form of agate with parallel bands). This gemstone is valued for its beauty and its use in various forms of jewelry and ornamentation throughout history.

Biblical References:

Sardonyx is specifically mentioned in the Book of Revelation, where it is listed as one of the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem. Revelation 21:19-20 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 fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst."

Symbolism and Significance:

In the context of the New Jerusalem, the sardonyx stone represents one of the twelve apostles, as each foundation stone is associated with an apostle's name. The use of precious stones in the description of the heavenly city underscores the glory, beauty, and eternal value of God's kingdom. Sardonyx, with its unique and striking appearance, symbolizes strength, protection, and the multifaceted nature of divine truth.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Sardonyx has been prized since ancient times, not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its supposed protective qualities. It was commonly used in the making of cameos and intaglios, where the contrasting layers of the stone could be carved to create intricate designs. The stone's durability and beauty made it a popular choice for seals and signet rings, which were important tools for authentication and authority in ancient cultures.

Theological Reflections:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of sardonyx among the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem can be seen as a reflection of the diversity and unity within the body of Christ. Each stone, with its distinct characteristics, contributes to the overall splendor and strength of the city, just as each believer, with their unique gifts and callings, contributes to the Church. The layered nature of sardonyx may also symbolize the depth and complexity of God's creation and His divine plan, which is both beautiful and multifaceted.

Conclusion:

While the Bible does not provide extensive details about sardonyx, its mention in the context of the New Jerusalem highlights its significance as a symbol of divine beauty and eternal value. As with other precious stones in Scripture, sardonyx serves as a reminder of the glory and majesty of God's kingdom, inviting believers to reflect on the spiritual truths represented by these earthly treasures.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Revelation 21:20
The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolyte; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Introduction.
... smaragdos emerald v. sardonnx sardonyx vi. ... These precious stones have been identified
as follows, taking the High Priest's breastplate: i. 1. Red carnelian 2 ...
/.../ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/introduction 4.htm

On Counter Promises.
... battlements of crystal; that it is to have a wall composed of many precious stones,
as jasper, and sapphire, and chalcedony, and emerald, and sardonyx, and onyx ...
/.../origen/origen de principiis/chapter xi on counter promises.htm

Pagan Shrines and Temples.
... Cassandra; of four elephants, cut in obsidian, a miracle of skill and labor, and
of a collection of precious stones, among which was the sardonyx set in the ...
/.../lanciani/pagan and christian rome/chapter ii pagan shrines and.htm

The New Jerusalem.
... city were adorned with every kind of precious stone ... the fourth, an emerald; the fifth,
a sardonyx; the sixth ... behold, I will lay thy stones with fair colors, and ...
/.../bliss/a brief commentary on the apocalypse/the new jerusalem.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... now. 'The foundations of the wall of the city,' saith he, 'were garnished
with all manner of precious stones' (Revelation 21:19). ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire;
the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; The fifth, sardonyx; the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm

The People of the New Earth
... were adorned with every kind of precious stone ... vivid green): (20) the fifth, a sardonyx
(a mixture ... is somewhat difficult to identify these stones with exactness ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the people of the new.htm