Topical Encyclopedia The imagery of precious stones in the Bible often symbolizes beauty, value, and divine craftsmanship. In the context of the Heavenly Jerusalem, these stones represent the eternal stability and glory of God's ultimate dwelling place with humanity. The Book of Revelation provides a vivid description of the New Jerusalem, emphasizing its foundation adorned with various precious stones, which signifies its enduring and unshakeable nature.Biblical Description Revelation 21:18-21 offers a detailed account of the New Jerusalem's construction: "The wall was made of jasper, and the city itself of pure gold, as pure as glass. 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. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The main street of the city was pure gold, as clear as glass." This passage highlights the use of twelve different precious stones, each representing one of the twelve foundations of the city. The number twelve is significant in biblical numerology, often symbolizing completeness and divine order, further underscoring the perfection and stability of the Heavenly Jerusalem. Symbolism and Significance The precious stones in the foundation of the New Jerusalem serve multiple symbolic purposes: 1. Eternal Beauty and Value: The use of precious stones reflects the eternal beauty and incalculable value of the city. Just as these stones are rare and treasured, so is the eternal dwelling place of God with His people. 2. Divine Craftsmanship: The meticulous selection and arrangement of these stones suggest the divine craftsmanship involved in the creation of the New Jerusalem. It is a city not built by human hands but by God Himself, showcasing His glory and majesty. 3. Stability and Permanence: Precious stones are known for their durability and resistance to decay, symbolizing the stability and permanence of the Heavenly Jerusalem. Unlike earthly cities, which are subject to decay and destruction, the New Jerusalem is eternal and unshakeable. 4. Reflection of God's Glory: The brilliance and radiance of these stones reflect the glory of God, who is the light of the city. Revelation 21:23 states, "The city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb." Theological Implications The depiction of the Heavenly Jerusalem adorned with precious stones carries profound theological implications. It reassures believers of the certainty of God's promises and the future hope of dwelling in His presence. The stability of the city, as represented by the enduring nature of the precious stones, offers comfort and assurance to Christians facing trials and uncertainties in the present world. Furthermore, the imagery of the New Jerusalem serves as a reminder of the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. It points to the restoration of creation and the establishment of a new heaven and a new earth, where God will dwell with His people in perfect harmony and peace. In summary, the use of precious stones in the description of the Heavenly Jerusalem in Revelation underscores the city's eternal stability, divine beauty, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Revelation 21:19And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: The Lively Stones. Rev. W. Morley Punshon. Praises and Vows Accepted in Zion The Second Theological Oration. Secondly, to Assign Some Reasons Why Christians must Make this the ... Appendix. Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of ... The Epistles of Paul. Concerning Peaceableness Memoir of John Bunyan 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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